The local authority of the island of Koufonisia in the Aegean Sea has expressed strong opposition to plans for large-scale resorts, arguing that such a model would irreversibly alter the island’s unique character.
Instead, the local authority submitted proposals that included specific, stringent measures to limit the size and capacity of tourist accommodations, including:
- Off-plan restrictions: A proposal was made to slash the maximum building allowance for hotels in “off-plan” (extra-urban) areas. Currently at 1,500 sq.m. (16,145 sq. ft.), the new limit would drop to 400 sq.m. (4,305 sq. ft.) per plot, with only an additional 100 sq.m. (1,076 sq. ft.) permitted for auxiliary uses like receptions. This would apply to properties exceeding 8,000 sq.m. (86,111 sq. ft.)
- Vertical limits: Building would be restricted exclusively to single-story ground floors, eliminating the possibility of multi-story structures in off-plan areas to preserve the natural skyline.
- Infrastructure bans: In a landmark move, the proposals include a total ban on swimming pools, both private and communal, in tourist accommodations. Furthermore, “club-style” hotel complexes and organized campsites would be prohibited on Ano Koufonisi.
Prioritizing small-scale hospitality on Koufonisia
The strategy aims to pivot away from mass tourism and toward “mild, sustainable development.” To support local residents, a slight increase in the building allowance for self-catering accommodations (rented rooms) was suggested—from 200 sq.m. (2,152 sq. ft.) to 250 sq.m. (2,690 sq. ft.)—viewed as a more compatible model for the island’s heritage.
The Council emphasized that Koufonisia rose to international fame precisely because of its simplicity and human scale. Critics of large-scale investment warned that turning the island into a “standardized” mass destination would destroy its primary competitive advantage.
Beyond environmental concerns, there is a socio-economic fear: large hotels often rely on external capital, which risks marginalizing local family-run businesses and disrupting the island’s social fabric.
Related: Construction of New Five-Star Resort on Greece’s Milos Halted
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