Corfu Old Town: Urgent Meeting on Building Facade Safety and Renovation
Corfu, January 15 – A critical meeting was held at the Corfu Town Hall on Monday, January 12, 2026, to address the escalating concerns regarding the structural integrity of building facades in the Old Town. The meeting, initiated by the Permanent Residents’ Association of Corfu Old Town, brought together key stakeholders including the Mayor, municipal service officials, representatives from the Technical Chamber of Greece (TEE), and the Ephorate of Antiquities. The primary focus was on the daily risks of injury posed by the dilapidated state of these historical buildings.
The meeting followed a public announcement by the Residents’ Association highlighting the urgent need for action. During the discussions, several crucial points were raised and proposals were put forward by all involved parties.
Key Issues and Proposed Solutions
Among the significant issues highlighted, the following stood out:
- Need for a Regulation for Old Town Apartment Buildings: Emphasis was placed on the necessity of creating a specific regulation for apartment buildings in the Old Town. This regulation aims to facilitate access to funding programs and provide substantial incentives for necessary repairs and renovations.
- Clarification on Renovation Procedures by the Ephorate of Antiquities: The representative from the Ephorate of Antiquities clarified a critical point: for the promotion of external facade repairs, the lifting of potential illegal constructions is not a prerequisite, except in specific cases. This clarification is particularly important, as many applications for renovation work have been pending due to this misconception.
- Municipal Commitment to Financial Facilitation: The Municipality of Corfu pledged to financially facilitate the occupation of sidewalks during facade repair works. This measure is intended to ease the burden on residents and property owners undertaking such projects. The Municipality also requested flexibility from the Ephorate of Antiquities within the framework of existing legislation.
- Prioritization of Dangerous Damage Interventions: A strong request was made to treat interventions in cases of dangerous damage with absolute priority, ensuring that immediate safety hazards are addressed without delay.
The Mayor also specifically mentioned the Municipality’s intention to issue an informative brochure outlining the required procedures for initiating repairs in the Old Town. This brochure aims to streamline the renovation process and ensure the safety of the buildings.
Background and Ongoing Concerns
The Old Town of Corfu, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its unique architecture and historical significance. However, years of neglect and the challenges associated with maintaining old structures have led to a critical situation where many building facades pose a risk to residents and visitors alike. The Permanent Residents’ Association has been vocal about these concerns, advocating for immediate and comprehensive solutions to preserve the town’s heritage while ensuring public safety.
The collaborative approach demonstrated in this meeting, involving local authorities, technical experts, and heritage protection bodies, signifies a crucial step towards addressing these long-standing issues. The commitment to financial support and procedural clarifications are expected to encourage more property owners to undertake necessary repairs.
Future Steps
The issuance of the informative brochure by the Municipality is anticipated to be a practical tool for residents. Further meetings and detailed planning will be required to implement the proposed regulation for apartment buildings and to ensure the smooth execution of facade repair projects across the Old Town. The focus remains on safeguarding both the architectural heritage and the well-being of those living in and visiting this historic area.
The community awaits the tangible outcomes of these discussions, hoping for a safer and more vibrant Old Town.
Source: https://www.startmediacorfu.gr/289779-2/
