The issue was brought to light through media reports, as the commencement of construction in the Sarakiniko area, known for its distinctive white volcanic rocks, triggered strong opposition from the local community.
In response, the Ministry of Environment swiftly intervened, referencing the media coverage. The General Secretary of Spatial Planning and Urban Environment at the Ministry of Environment (YPEN) sent a letter to the Urban Planning Department (YDOM) of Milos, instructing an immediate halt to the work until a thorough review of the building permit’s legality was conducted.
Simultaneously, the Ministry requested that the Independent Authority for Transparency carry out an investigation into the legality of building permit number 1134683/25-07-2024, issued by the YDOM of Milos.
The building permit, granted in July 2024, authorizes the construction of a new two-story hotel complex, spanning a total of 2,974.32 sqm, including a basement and swimming pools, at the "Kamínia" location on Milos, within the larger Sarakiniko area. The plot in question covers approximately 19 acres and is owned by Unique Developments. This property was acquired by the company roughly one year before the issuance of the permit.
Prior to the permit's approval in July 2024, the company had secured a Building Terms Certificate from the local Milos municipality, following all necessary approvals from the Architecture Council, the Forestry Directorate, and the Archaeological Service. Additionally, the environmental study, along with the stream boundary delineation, had been duly authorized.
