A flurry of complaints regarding the illegal construction and expansion of hotel units in the Hersonissos area of Heraklion, Crete, has reached BN, pointing to irregularities reminiscent of the OPEKEPE scandal but in a different form. The allegations are absolutely chilling, ranging from the erection of thousands of square meters using minor-scale permits to the issuance of building permits without the prior approval of environmental terms.
The case of Anissaras
A characteristic example involves a hotel in the Anissaras region of Heraklion where, according to information brought to our attention, building permits were issued first, followed later by the approval of environmental terms. Furthermore, constructions spanning thousands of square meters were carried out under minor-scale permits alongside the legalization of unauthorized structures.
Falsified data
The inconceivable part of the case is that in the approval of the environmental terms, already built-up areas are presented as undeveloped land. Even more interesting is the fact that these specific investments have also received subsidies from community funds.
Extensive destruction of the coastlines
According to data that has come to our knowledge, the phenomenon is widespread throughout the region, resulting in beachfront construction and severe coastal erosion with sea penetration observed from the Municipality of Kokkini Hani to Malia. It is not just illegal building, as many coastal hotels have conducted illegal drilling along the shoreline or drilling in excess of their permits, pumping water processed via reverse osmosis. Essentially, they are performing desalination without permits or environmental approval. Of course, the Municipality of Hersonissos attributes everything to climate change, claiming that the areas of Gouves, Kokkini Hani, Gournes, and Hersonissos have been affected by this phenomenon and require restoration works. However, they ignore the science stating that building on the coast or dune zones destroys natural defenses, just as structures on the shore interrupt the natural transport of sediment along the coast, leading to sand accumulation on one side and intense erosion (sediment deficit) on the other.
The investigation
BN has received a multitude of documents and complaints, an initial reading of which shows that the competent building and environmental authorities, as well as local regional powers, have full knowledge of what is happening. Despite this, it appears that through various maneuvers, they allow the phenomenon to evolve and grow, raising questions about the purpose behind such a policy. BN is investigating the data in its possession in detail and will return with specific facts, names, and addresses.
Nikos Karoutzos
nkaroutzos@gmail.com
www.bankingnews.gr
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