What Regional Authority says about roundabouts in Corfu

(Ionian Islands Regional Authority) At the very least, the interest shown by the head of the "Ionio Dynata!" party and former Regional Governor, Rodi Kratsa, regarding the issue of the three roundabouts in Corfu, could be described as hypocritical.

Reading her statement, one truly wonders how it is possible for her not to be aware of the stages and procedures required for public works studies, both in terms of planning and implementation.

We would like to inform both the main opposition party and, more importantly, our fellow citizens that a study for the construction of three roundabouts in Corfu has indeed been tendered and is in progress. The three locations under study for these roundabouts are Tria Gefyria, Ekati and Sotiriotissa.

• Roundabout at Tria Gefyria (Eth.Corfu-Lefkimi Road):
  The consultant has submitted two preliminary study proposals, which have been evaluated by the relevant authority and returned to the consultant for modifications. The requested changes concern the size of the non-traffic area forming the core of the roundabout.

• Roundabout at Ekati (Eth.Corfu-Paleokastritsa Road):
  The consultant has submitted a preliminary study, which has been evaluated and returned for adjustments. The final design for the definitive study has been developed and is expected to be delivered soon.

• Roundabout at Sotiriotissa (Eth.Corfu-Paleokastritsa Road):
  After reviewing the geometric characteristics of the road, traffic conditions, and existing visibility distances, the consultant concluded that this location is not suitable for a roundabout. Currently, the possibility of modifying the contract is being explored to study an alternative location for the third roundabout.

It is noted that the contract for the studies, with a budget of €200,000, was signed on February 13, 2023, with a 72.15% discount, bringing the final contract amount to €55,547. According to the contract, the study was to be completed within 12 months; however, the contractor has already received one extension and has requested another, until the end of the upcoming March.

At present, it is evident that the Regional Authority does not have final studies in hand, only preliminary studies for two locations and a consultant’s conclusion deeming one location unsuitable for a roundabout (Sotiriotissa). So where does the former Regional Governor get the figure of €4,500,000, which she cites to create an impression? Without final studies, it is impossible to determine the project’s implementation cost.

It is self-evident that the Regional Authority prioritises road safety, traffic decongestion, and the convenience of both drivers and pedestrians. That is why it is working towards completing the final studies as soon as possible, so that the construction of the roundabouts can then be included in the appropriate funding programme.

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