I wonder, if it is true as reported by Mr. Mariato that “since the second scenario has been chosen, this discussion is closed and now what matters is its formulation”.
Then what was/is the point of the public consultation? Was it a sham? Do the planners not intend to study and revisit their proposals? All the more so as some of them have a radically different focus?
To give an indication:
Targeting by the study team in the critical area of development
Local Economy and Employment
Recording and opening of Traditional Paths and their connection with the European Path E4
- Organization of actions for the promotion of local products in cooperation with the Municipality and producers' organizations
- Study on the inventory of needs and organisation of fishing shelters
- Surveying and construction of municipal slaughterhouses with all modern specifications in cooperation with professional farmers
- Exploitation of the tourist site of the Old Sematoros in Moulari of Karavas
Targeting the alternative proposal (presented as scenario 4 by the two largest municipal groups), but the numbers don't matter, the point is
Σ1. Population Recovery of the Islands
Strengthening the permanent population, policies to attract new residents to the islands. Organisation of transport and social infrastructure.
Σ2. Self-sufficiency of Agricultural - Livestock Products - Sustainable Use of Natural Resources - Energy - Sustainable Development from Residential Areas
Strengthening the primary and secondary sector. Implement sustainable natural resource management practices, such as the protection of water resources, the conservation of forests and coastal zones and the enhancement of biodiversity. Promoting renewable energy sources: Promote the use of renewable energy sources to generate electricity and meet the island's energy needs, while respecting the natural environment and landscape. Energy self-sufficiency of the islands and decoupling from the interconnection with the Peloponnese.
Σ3. Economic Development
Strengthening Local Entrepreneurship - Promoting Alternative Economic Development Scenarios
Σ4. Strengthening the Tourism Sector - Sustainable Development Strategy
Adopting a sustainable development strategy for the tourism sector with the aim of diversifying the tourism product and creating a strong tourism identity with an emphasis on specific forms of tourism. Adaptation of tourism infrastructure: Development of tourism infrastructure compatible with local characteristics that enhances the quality of services provided
Σ5. Strengthening Externalisation and Competitiveness
Strengthening the promotion of Kythera as a tourist destination with special emphasis on alternative forms of tourism, such as ecotourism, hiking, religious and cultural tourism. Strengthening the export of local products.
I think the difference is obvious. The important thing here is that the different approach cannot be ignored
In my opinion, it should:
1. The Study Group needs to rethink its approach. In my humble opinion, the condition of public consultation as a major milestone has not been substantially fulfilled! The Acceptance Committee (on which the City is represented through Mr. Mariatos, needs to see this reality. Even if the reason was the unfortunate presentation, as Mr Mariatos acknowledges)
2. To really consult with the island's stakeholders, especially the Municipality, the Property Committee (EEPKA), the local and mass organizations (associations)
3. Come back with a composition scenario
One last comment. The TPA, since it determines critical parameters of life on our islands (as Mr. Mariatos rightly mentions), cannot be a matter for urban planners alone. The strategic directions of development are a matter for all the people of Kythera through their institutions. That is why the process involves consultations that must be real and not pretence. Of course, urban planners etc. have a critical role in making these strategic directions a reality within the «overarching» boundaries.
I recognise, of course, a problem, which I have addressed in my legal submissions and Mr Magoulas in his excellent intervention. It is a great pity that the municipality does not have a strategic development plan. As a result, ideas are now being formulated from within. It is something that the municipality needs to rethink and implement.
