Programme for Unification of Archaeological Sites
Athens, Greece
Environmental and transport planning
Abstract
The protection and preservation of the historic/archaeological sites and monuments of Athens performs a significant role in the continuity of the history of the city where democracy was born and which constitutes a symbol for mankind.
The unification project includes highly diversified and multi-level actions involving urban design, environmental planning, establishment of transport regulations, etc. These factors highlight the sustainability of the project and should encourage the emergence of new urban poles contributing to decentralisation, the renewal of deprived neighbourhoods, and the upgrading of tourist resources in the city centre. Operations to be conducted under this programme will be subsidized by the European Union.
Policy Goals
Policy goals of the Programme for Unification of Archaeological Sites include:
- Reduction of pollution through increases in green and open spaces, pedestrian streets and traffic control within the site boundaries
- Improvement of traffic conditions
- Urban environment improvement
- Implementation of a legislative framework.
Present Stage of Development
At present, only certain actions are being implemented, including the updating of the initial study, specific traffic and circulation studies, pedestrianisation of the commercial centre, and rehabilitation of classified buildings.
Background Information
Without doubt, archaeological sites in Athens stand out as the major element of the cityÕs cultural heritage and they are a living witness of its continuity through the centuries. Today archaeological sites are scattered throughout the urban fabric unconnected to one another or to the city. They are moreover subjected to the polluting emissions of the city.
Since the beginning of the century, several studies and proposals for the archaeological sites have been put forward, but the first official state commitment dates to 1985 with the enactment of a law (Law 1515/85) promoting, among other things, suitable actions on archaeological sites. The programme for archaeological site unification is part of the Athens master plan (approved in 1985) and is in line with its objectives for the overall improvement of the built environment.
Implementation
Strategy
The programme under consideration is a comprehensive urban project which aims at improving the living environment through enhancement of the city and reduction of nuisance. The term ÔunificationÕ describes the creation of a network of interconnected areas including monuments and archaeological sites, open space and deprived districts. These spaces will be planned in close relationship to their urban environments.
Activities
Following the enactment of the Athens master planÕs legislative framework, including the "archaeological sites unification" programme, the Ministry of Culture commissioned a study for proposals linked to their feasibility. The Organisation for Planning and Environmental Protection of Athens has been responsible for the programme since 1994 and for the various participants and partners (public/private) involved. The Organisation has been given the responsibility for developing a plan to be implemented over the entire study area. At the same time, the Organisation is required to form proposals on the legislative and legal framework of the project and to ensure consistency with other projects in Athens.
Partners
The programme involves the following actors:
- Ministry of Culture
- Ministry of Environment, Planning & Public Works
- Department for Urban Planning
- Department for Specific Urban Renewal Projects
- Organisation of Athens for Planning and Environmental Protection (coordinator)
It should be noted that a specific project management agency with S.A. status will be established and will operate under the Ministries of Culture and Environment, Planning & Public Works.
Analysis
Results
The results are difficult to assess, as the entire project is not yet implemented. Major anticipated results include the creation of an archaeological park of 700 ha; the general improvement of environmental conditions and of the overall organisation of a major part of the city; and the restructuring of transport organisation in the city centre and in the adjacent areas. This latter includes an increase in average vehicle speed and a decrease in polluting emissions, a reduction of traffic flows across sensitive urban zones, and the development of an efficient mass transport network.
Barriers and Conflicts
Due to the large number of agencies involved, there are some problems of coordination. There are also problems caused by the plethora of studies of the area which have been carried out in the past, including traffic, planning and other studies. To resolve this a new study, which attempts to coordinate these, will be commissioned.
Lessons Learned
Significant experience has been gathered in terms of planning and coordination of intricate multi-level actions. Local authorities have been involved in planning operations and decision making, improving thequality of life. New approaches and methodologies connected with resources management have been introduced.
Further information
Mr. Dimitris Hatzopoulos
Organisation of Athens for Planning and Environmental Protection,
2, Panormou str.,
115 23 Athens, Greece.
Tel: +30 - 1 / 69 25 909 or 64 49 306
Fax: +30 - 1 / 64 64 365
Acknowledgement
The original text for this project summary was developed by theExpert Group on the Urban Environment (September, 1994). Revision by EURONET, 1996.
© EURONET/ICLEI Consortium, 1996. See Impressum.