Facts from Growthfund on international tender for Kalamaria Marina

The Growthfund is moving to set the record straight regarding the international tender for the development of the Kalamaria tourist port (Marina Aretsou), responding to what it describes as inaccurate and misleading statements circulated by the Municipality of Kalamaria.

The international tender for the development of the Kalamaria tourist port (Marina Aretsou) launched on 15 December 2025 and is currently ongoing.

According to the Growthfund, a joint meeting was previously held between the Kalamaria Municipal Authority and Growthfund management, with institutional representatives from the Ministry of National Economy and Finance in attendance. During this meeting, specific provisions in the tender terms were agreed upon and formally approved by the Municipality, creating binding commitments for all parties involved.

Despite this agreement and the prompt responses of both the Growthfund and the Ministry to the Municipality’s requests, the Municipality of Kalamaria opted to pursue legal action, which, as noted by the fund, delayed the project and imposed direct costs on local citizens. The Growthfund emphasizes that questioning previously agreed provisions after the fact runs counter to the principles of institutional consistency and good governance.

Key agreed provisions include the obligation for the preferred investor to revitalize the former central EOT building (Remezzo) and incorporate public-benefit activities, such as a municipal library. Additionally, the request of previous municipal administrations to establish a museum dedicated to Pontic Hellenism has been accepted, reflecting the historical significance of the site.

Moreover, it is stipulated that if hotel operations are licensed within a one-kilometer radius of the Marina, the planned hotel development with long-term rental apartments within the port’s land zone will not proceed.

Addressing local government concerns, the Growthfund also reduced the building coefficient by 50%, limiting construction to two floors and ensuring free and unrestricted public access to green spaces, recreational areas, and sports facilities.

Both the Kalamaria Municipality and the Region of Central Macedonia actively participated in the consultation process for the Strategic Development Plan (Master Plan) and the Strategic Environmental Impact Study, which have been approved by the competent state authorities.

The Growthfund underscores that the Kalamaria Marina is a landmark for Thessaloniki, and throughout the tender preparation process, local community concerns were carefully considered, resulting in substantial adjustments to the project design.

Finally, the fund stresses that public discussion should be based on factual information, rather than selective interpretations or misrepresentations of the plan, which can create misleading impressions for citizens. The Growthfund remains committed to developing Kalamaria Marina as a modern, sustainable landmark, delivering clear public benefits while ensuring responsible and harmonious development.