Corfu: Residents’ Association Demands Unobstructed Access in Old Town
Corfu, June 23 – The Corfu Permanent Residents’ Association has issued a new statement concerning accessibility in the Old Town, directly disputing claims made by the Deputy Mayor for Commerce. The association asserts that the 2022 Ministerial Decision, which mandates a 1.50-meter clear pedestrian zone, is indeed applicable to the Old Town’s pedestrian streets, contrary to the Deputy Mayor’s suggestion that the area’s age exempts it from the regulation.
The association highlights that a document from the Corfu Traffic Police, dated May 19, 2025, explicitly confirms the validity and obligation to implement the decision. They argue that invoking ‘antiquity’ as a reason for exemption from national legislation is a mere pretext, especially when the Hellenic Police (EL.AS.) itself enforces these provisions.
Legal Interpretation and Obligations
According to the residents, the administration’s interpretation is legally unfounded. They emphasize that accessibility legislation requires an ‘accessible chain’ that is uninterrupted, ensuring continuous and unhindered movement for people with disabilities. Furthermore, the 1.50-meter clear pedestrian zone is a mandatory requirement, not an option. In cases of narrow pedestrian streets, the Municipality is obliged to remove obstacles, not to maintain them.
The association stresses that accessibility legislation applies to existing infrastructures as well. Any contrary interpretation, they argue, goes against universal design principles and leads to the exclusion of people with disabilities, thereby violating their right to free movement.
Immediate Action Required
Consequently, the permanent residents conclude that ‘antiquity’ or lack of space does not justify inaction. They demand the immediate removal of all obstacles, even if this means, in some cases, not granting or revoking permits for tables and chairs.
This intervention underscores the ongoing tension between local businesses, which often utilize public spaces for outdoor seating, and residents, who advocate for the rights of pedestrians and individuals with disabilities to navigate the Old Town freely and safely. The association’s persistent efforts aim to ensure that Corfu’s historic center remains accessible to all, aligning with national and international standards for inclusive urban environments.
The issue of accessibility has been a recurring point of contention in Corfu, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where the narrow streets and historic architecture present unique challenges for urban planning and public space management. The association’s latest statement serves as a renewed call to action for local authorities to prioritize the needs of all citizens and visitors, ensuring that the charm of the Old Town is enjoyed without compromising fundamental rights to mobility and safety.
Further developments are expected as the Municipality is urged to respond to these demands and clarify its stance on the enforcement of accessibility regulations within the Old Town.
