UK tourists could face restrictions when visiting a popular Greek island, Santorini, as local authorities aim to limit the number of visitors. Draft legislation has been introduced to impose building constraints on hotels and holiday rentals, prohibiting new construction projects like hotels, building extensions, and swimming pools. The proposed law’s goal is to maintain the island’s natural character by preventing further infrastructure development.
With just 25,000 permanent residents, Santorini welcomed 3.2 million tourists in 2023, prompting concerns about the sustainability of continued construction. Mayor Nikos Zorzos highlighted the strain on resources such as water and electricity and stressed the importance of regulating construction to avoid escalating problems. The island’s safety was also under scrutiny following a landslide earlier in the year, raising questions about the stability of the caldera’s slopes.
The proposed legislation mandates businesses within the caldera to conduct structural studies within two years, and existing building permits will undergo review by year-end. This move follows earlier announcements by Santorini and Mykonos to limit cruise ship arrivals, as part of efforts to manage tourism influx. In 2023, Greece welcomed seven million cruise ship passengers, indicating the need for sustainable tourism practices.
Authorities are considering these measures to address concerns about infrastructure strain, environmental impact, and safety risks posed by excessive tourism. By regulating construction and visitor numbers, Santorini aims to strike a balance between preserving its natural beauty and accommodating tourists sustainably. The final decisions on these proposed rules could significantly impact the future tourism landscape of the island.