After the completion of the studies, the plans will be reviewed by committees of the Ministry of Environment and Energy before being submitted to the Council of State (StE) for approval.
The first two plans expected to reach the StE in 2026 are the Special Urban Plans for Mykonos and Santorini, for which the studies have already been finalized.
In Mykonos, building density will be reduced by 20–40% as certain areas are designated as protected, while the minimum plot size required for development will increase to 8 stremmas, and specifically to 30 stremmas for hotel properties. In Santorini, the minimum plot size will be raised even further. The plan for Santorini has been described as “excessively conservative,” as it will leave very few properties available for new tourism developments.
It is worth noting that, following a decision by the European Commission to allow flexibility regarding deadlines under the Recovery Fund, urban plan studies that are reviewed and received by the Ministry of Environment and Energy by April 2026 will be considered complete, even if they have not yet undergone public consultation or been formally ratified.
This development provides a “breathing space” for approximately 60% of ongoing urban plans and ensures their funding, without threatening the absorption of European funds.
Tenders for the Special and Local Urban Plans under the “Konstantinos Doxiadis” Urban Reform Program began in 2021. With a total budget of €401.05 million, the program represents the largest urban reform initiative in Greece.
The planning effort covers over 70% of Greek territory and aims to organize land use in a structured manner with legal certainty, backed by the institutional oversight of the Council of State.
