Municipal Council: “Yes” to exploratory drilling, unanimity on Women΄s Shelter

At its meeting on Wednesday, 7 October the Central Corfu and Diapontia Islands Municipal Council voted by majority in favour of the Asopos-1A exploratory drilling project in the Ionian, alongside decisions on the Municipal Market and school infrastructure, and a unanimous decision to extend the lease of the shelter for abused women.

Exploratory drilling was the main political issue. The municipal administration, following a recommendation by Deputy Mayor Thomas Vlassis, backed the exploratory drilling, subject to strict environmental conditions, while distinguishing it from any possible future commercial exploitation. Mayor Stefanos Poulimenos supported the exploitation of natural resources, while also calling for the Municipality to participate in an environmental monitoring mechanism.

Meropi Ydraiou called for specific compensatory benefits for the Diapontia Islands and a new consultation process should an exploitable deposit be discovered. By contrast, the Laiki Syspirossi party and the Corfu Alliance party led by Giorgos Karydis called for the drilling project to be rejected. Representatives of labour, environmental and social organisations also spoke against the proposal. Tensions arose when a representative of the anti-drilling initiative was cut off after exceeding the allotted speaking time.

A new regulation for the Municipal Market was approved by majority vote, allowing a wider range of commercial activities, including food and beverage businesses. Of the approximately 55 units, around half remain vacant. Restrictions on the concentration of leases were discussed, while problems with parking, cleanliness and facilities were also highlighted. Laiki Syspirossi voted “present” (white ballot).

The Council unanimously approved a three-year extension to the lease of the property housing the Shelter for Abused Women, following an initiative by Meropi Ydraiou. The legality of the unilateral extension will be reviewed by the Decentralised Administration.

In Pagrateika, a planning amendment was approved to allow the construction of a new special-needs school for 40 pupils on a municipal plot of approximately 3.4 stremma, near the 4th High School.

Regarding Gyarda, the historic British-era aqueduct that was designated a monument in 2024, the work of the volunteer group working to promote and preserve it was presented. The mayor announced discussions with DEYAK regarding funding for the necessary preliminary restoration studies.

Finally, the Municipal Council’s Rules of Procedure were approved with 26 votes in favour, while the name “Ariti” was approved for the small theatre at Anemomylos. Other matters approved included issues concerning school committees, traffic regulations in Benitses, the Platytera bypass, and concessions involving the Ionian Parliament.

GIORGOS KATSAITIS