Greece Proposes Building Restrictions on Santorini

In response to rising concerns over overtourism and environmental degradation, the Greek government is proposing strict building restrictions in Santorini's caldera zone, which includes a freeze on new hotels and expansions of existing structures. The draft legislation, currently open for public consultation, aims to address the island's fragile landscape, particularly following a landslide in April that raised stability concerns. Local authorities, led by Santorini’s mayor, Nikos Zorzos, have advocated for these measures citing the strain on infrastructure and resources due to the influx of tourists, which exceeded 3.4 million last year. Businesses will need to conduct structural adequacy studies, and all building permits issued in the past five years will be reviewed by the end of 2024. While some residents support the measures to preserve the island's natural beauty, others fear the economic repercussions of limiting tourism-related development. The proposed regulations reflect a balancing act between environmental protection and the local economy's reliance on tourism.