Dam project being reconsidered says Corfu MP
CORFU. Corfu MP and Deputy Minister Stefanos Gikas spoke about tourism, water scarcity and other topics in an interview he gave.
The Deputy Minister of Shipping and Island Policy, Stefanos Gikas, gave an interview to Money and Tourism, where he addressed topics such as tourism, the need for infrastructure projects in Corfu, and the island's challenges, including water scarcity. He also mentioned the dam project, which is "being reconsidered by experts."
He stated:
"A few weeks ago, the contract was signed for the construction of the Mega-Yacht marina in Corfu, while the marina in Spilia in the Old Town is also nearing completion.
In addition, studies are progressing for the construction of the harbour of Agios Stefanos Avlioton in North Corfu, alongside upgrades to the port infrastructure of the Diapontia Islands.
Plans are also underway for the construction of two new marinas: one in Imerolia in North Corfu, where the studies have been completed, and another in Lakka, Paxos. In collaboration with the Ionian Islands Regional Authority, interventions are planned for the Lefkimmi Port in South Corfu, although unfortunately, the planned marina there was rejected by the municipal council of South Corfu."
Regarding the water scarcity issue, he mentioned that the water supply project is being reinitiated, at least its first phase, with the construction of a desalination plant in Chrysiida. The dams, meanwhile, are "being reconsidered by experts." He also noted the possibility of transferring water through pipelines from Epirus.
Concerning the government’s strategy to promote tourism outside peak periods, he stated: "This summer, the government launched a public consultation on the 'New Special Spatial Framework for Tourism.' This new framework provides guidance for spatial and urban planning at the local level and focuses on developing alternative forms of tourism, such as agritourism, cultural tourism, ecotourism, diving tourism, and others.
It also emphasises extending the tourist season, as the aim is to move beyond the 'sun and sea' tourism model. He expressed satisfaction with the results of this year’s tourism season.
VASSILIS PANTAZOPOULOS
Photo: Stefanos Gikas
