The new Special Spatial Planning Framework for Tourism has been formally adopted through a Joint Ministerial Decision signed by Environment and Energy Minister Stavros Papastavrou and Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni. The decision was also co-signed by Deputy Minister of Environment and Energy Marilena Soukouli.
The Special Spatial Planning Framework for Tourism is a national plan that determines where and under what rules tourism development can take place in Greece. According to the Ministry of Tourism, its aim is to establish strategic guidelines and medium- to long-term objectives for the spatial organization of the tourism sector, based on economic, environmental and social sustainability.
What changes under the new framework
The new Special Spatial Planning Framework for Tourism introduces clear, uniform and transparent rules for new tourism investments and provides guidelines for the development of hotels and other tourism infrastructure. At the same time, it provides stronger protection for areas facing increased tourism pressure, with particular emphasis on islands and environmentally sensitive areas.
The main classification of areas is based on the intensity of tourism activity, primarily taking into account the number of tourist beds in relation to the area and permanent population of each municipal unit. This results in Zones A–E and, for islands, Groups I–III, which determine the conditions under which tourism development can take place in each area.
This classification affects the types of tourism investments permitted, the minimum plot-size requirements for new hotels, maximum accommodation capacity, as well as the rules governing the protection of the natural environment and the character of each destination.
Focus on coastal areas and low-intensity development
According to the ministry, the new framework introduces strict protection rules for coastal areas, with the aim of preserving the natural landscape and protecting coastal zones.
At the same time, the provision for “low-intensity development” remains in place, with a maximum building coefficient equal to half the applicable coefficient in the area. This is to be implemented through specialized studies, Strategic Environmental Assessments, public consultation and the issuance of a Presidential Decree, following approval by the Council of State.
The ministry says that, following extensive consultation with stakeholders, scientists, industry professionals and citizens, as well as input from the National Spatial Planning Council and the Central Spatial Planning Council, guidelines, regulations and solutions were finalized on a range of issues.
According to the relevant announcement, the framework’s overall structure, classification system and fundamental principles remained unchanged, while three targeted improvements were introduced: in Controlled Development Areas with intense tourism activity; in Special Development Support Areas, such as border regions; and in the use of existing buildings that have already been designated as traditional or listed buildings in Zone A areas.
Ministers’ statements
Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni described the new framework as a key tool for implementing the strategy for high-quality tourism development, with moderation and balance and with respect for the natural and cultural environment. She said the framework protects destinations facing increased pressure while creating development opportunities for less-developed areas.
Environment and Energy Minister Stavros Papastavrou, for his part, stressed that the Special Spatial Planning Framework for Tourism is a strategic national planning tool for organized, balanced and sustainable tourism development. He also emphasized that spatial planning establishes rules where there was previously ambiguity and provides a long-term perspective where short-term planning had often prevailed.
With the signing of the Joint Ministerial Decision, the ministry says Greece now has, in practical terms for the first time, a strategic institutional framework for the spatial development of tourism.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Special Spatial Planning Framework for Tourism?
It is the national plan that determines where and under what rules tourism development can take place, with the aim of ensuring the sustainable spatial organization of the sector.
Who is directly affected by the new framework?
It directly concerns the planning of new tourism investments, the development of hotels and tourism infrastructure, as well as areas facing strong tourism pressures or requiring special protection.
