Important developments took place today at the Regional Council of Attica, where the budget for 2025 was discussed, with a burning issue for Kythera withdrawal of the project for the extension of the runway of the airport «Alexandros Aristotelous Onassis». The meeting strongly highlighted the responsibilities, questions and perspectives around the project.
The Governor of Attica, Mr. Nikos Chardalias, proceeded to a significant commitment, stressing that the project can be brought back into the budget provided that the positive recommendation of the Kythera Municipal Council and/or the proposal of the «Atticus Circle» faction. Earlier, the issue of disqualification raised both the head of Attiko Circle George Ioakeimidis and the per. councillor of the faction Maria Kazakou. The challenge of Chardalias for the Municipality of Kythera to convene a City Council and take decisions initiating immediate developments to restart the project, since no progress has been made in the last 4 years.
It should be noted that the meeting on the airport, which was promised by the Municipal Authority for the autumn in cooperation with the Tourist Accommodation Association «CeriGo», never took place. The absence of initiatives and the delay in raising the issue reveal omission and lack of strategic planning, which has resulted in the stagnation in the tourist and economic development of Kythera, since it passes through the island's airport.
Today's discussion at the Regional Council confirmed that the airport expansion project remains pending, while the local community and professionals express strong concern. This is a project that would give a new impetus to tourism and the island's economy. It is worth noting that the Cerigo association was represented at the Per. The Cerigo Association was represented in the Council by the Secretary General, Epaminontas Stamatis, who had contacts and constant communication with the elected officials on the sidelines of the meeting. According to reports, the presence of the island's hoteliers at the decision-making centre was a catalyst.
The continuation is expected to be given in the Municipal Council, where Kytherians expect commitments and solutions, not more delays and evasions.
