Attica is undergoing a transformation through the largest «green revitalization» project ever undertaken in the country, the redevelopment of Faliro Bay, as highlighted in an announcement by the Region of Attica following the signing of the decision to include the project in the Operational Program «Transport Infrastructure, Environment, and Sustainable Development 2014–2020,» with a total budget of 365.4 million euros.
The project was successfully implemented thanks to the «systematic efforts of the current administration and the staff of the Attica Region,» as there was a real risk that it would not be carried out, since the initial plan—in addition to the lack of feasibility studies—called for the project to be funded exclusively with regional funds, which, however, were not available, as the Region notes.
Since taking over the project, which was 52% complete in September 2019, the current management—despite the adverse effects caused by the pandemic— has, on the one hand, completed Phase I and, on the other hand, sought funding for the implementation of Phase II, as justifiably requested by the municipalities and citizens of the wider region.
In this context, through systematic work, a commitment to our goals, and cooperation with the European Commission and the Ministry of Development, we have secured all the resources required to implement the entire project.
The benefits for Attica and its residents
In practice, this development means that:
- The funds allocated for Phase A, amounting to 110 million euros and drawn from the Attica Region’s own resources, are being returned to the Region’s coffers so that they can be allocated to development projects for local governments in all municipalities of the Athens Basin.
- There is now absolutely no doubt that funding has been secured to complete the project’s superstructure—a project that serves as a «flagship» not only for Attica, not only for Greece, but also for the European Commission, as it will be constructed in accordance with the principles of the New European Bauhaus (NEB)—namely, Sustainability, Aesthetics, and Inclusion.
- Residents of the municipalities in the wider region will soon be able to enjoy, along with the millions of visitors to Attica, a metropolitan project of immense importance that will improve their quality of life and increase the value of their properties
Europe is turning its attention to Faliro
The largest urban renewal project in Europe is taking place in Attica
The redevelopment of Faliro Bay, as highlighted in the announcement, is considered perhaps the largest redevelopment project in the European Union, and is drawing the attention of relevant EU officials, who are in regular contact with the Region and the project’s consultants. It is the largest metropolitan park to be built in the European Union in accordance with the principles of the NEB.
Why We Chose the European New Bauhaus Model for Attica
While the initial phases of the project’s development have essentially been completed (transportation infrastructure, flood protection works for the city) and the tender for Phase II is ready and up to date, the Region of Attica sought and secured EU funding for the entire Project, capitalizing on the current circumstances and the new green transition policy, while incorporating and promoting the values of the New European Bauhaus.
In this context
- It is evaluated by the project team and the EU’s Jaspers consultants, and the design’s compliance with the principles of the NEB is confirmed.
- An investigation is underway to determine in which areas there may be opportunities to strengthen alignment with these principles
- Whatever proposals emerge will not alter the original plan, but will strengthen and enrich it, making it more environmentally sensitive and more socially modern and attractive.
What Is the New European Bauhaus?
The New European Bauhaus aims to give the green transition a cultural dimension. It is a creative and interdisciplinary initiative of the European Commission that seeks to connect the European Green Deal with our living spaces and experiences.
The New European Bauhaus is guided by the following triad of inseparable core values:
- Sustainability, from climate goals to circularity, zero pollution, and biodiversity,
- Aesthetics and quality of experience—beyond functionality,
- Inclusivity, embracing diversity, ensuring equality for all, accessibility, and affordability.
Redevelopment of Faliro Bay: A Project, a Vision Spanning Years
In light of this development, Regional Governor George Patoulis stated:
«Our commitments are becoming a reality. We have worked systematically and secured significant funding amounting to 365.4 million euros. This amount will help bring about the redevelopment of Faliro Bay, one of the most iconic projects in the country and in Europe. I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has contributed and continues to contribute to making this long-held vision a reality.».
