One unified authority for Corfu roads
Perhaps Corfu needs a unified approach.
Trips to Athens have brought funds for repairing Corfu’s roads. But if resources are available, it may be time to ask a more fundamental question: who should actually plan and manage the island’s road network?
Today, responsibilities are split between the municipalities and the Ionian Islands Regional Authority. Municipalities are responsible for local roads, while the Regional Authority manages provincial roads. In practice, however, the network functions as a single system. A driver starting from a village, travelling onto a provincial road, and ending up in the town does not perceive who is responsible for each section; they only notice the condition of the road.
Corfu’s particular circumstances make this issue even more critical. With some of the highest rainfall in Greece, water quickly damages asphalt, creating cracks and subsidence—and often destroying roads that were recently paved. Without proper drainage, cleared ditches, and ongoing maintenance, every storm starts a new cycle of damage and repair.
Perhaps, then, Corfu needs a unified approach. One possible solution could be the creation of a single road authority for the island—a technical body within local government, with both the Regional Authority and municipalities involved. Such an organisation could have permanent technical planning, coordinated project scheduling, and, above all, ongoing maintenance of the network. It could also make better use of available resources, avoid overlapping responsibilities, and treat the road network as a whole rather than as a collection of separate segments.
Corfu doesn’t just need more asphalt. It needs better organisation. And a unified road authority could be the first step from piecemeal fixes toward a truly effective road policy for the island.
GIORGOS KATSAITIS
