Grigoris Konstantellos: Development and quality of life for all
The mayor of Vari, Voula and Vouliagmeni describes his vision for the area, aiming to turn it into a model of urban and environmental development.
- 11/07/2025, 12:13
THE MUNICIPALITY of Vari, Voula and Vouli agmeni is undoubtedly one of the most dynamic and developing municipalities in Attica, combining unparalleled natural beauty and high quality of life, and standing out for the innovative initiatives that it undertakes. Its unique beaches, located within a short distance from the center of Athens, make the area a pole of attraction for both residents and visitors.
The Mayor of Vari, Voula and Vouliagmeni, Grigoris Konstantellos, speaks to White Paper about his vision and explains how this Municipality is gradually emerging as a model of modern and sustainable urban development.
What initiatives is the Municipality undertaking in order to preserve the coastal ecosystem and protect the famous lake from environmental threats?
The protection of the natural wealth of our region is not just a priority — it is a non-negotiable obligation. The coastal front, with a total length of 27 kilo meters, and Lake Vouliagmeni constitute a unique ecosystem that combines environmental, tourist and cultural value. We collaborate with universities and scientific bodies to monitor water quality and biodiversity, while implementing targeted actions and interventions to address coastal erosion and control pollution. At the same time, we have proceeded with the radical regeneration of public spaces with a mild ecological footprint and natural materials, emphasizing the planting of endemic species. The coastal front regeneration project has been designed based on the principles of sustainability and the protection of the landscape — not its alteration.
How is developing high-quality experiences for visitors combined with ensuring accessibility for local residents?
Our strategy is based on the principle of “symbiosis”: we develop infrastructure and services that serve both visitors and residents. An example is the new coastal front, which offers accessible pedestrian paths, bicycle lanes, recreational areas and cultural routes. Furthermore, in every major tourism investment we seek to give back to the local community — through the creation of jobs and the contribution to local infrastructure projects. The development that we promote does not concern only the “product” of tourism, but also the overall quality of life for everyone. Finally, we have established, through a series of regulatory provisions, strict operating rules for the city’s businesses, enabling us to ensure that their operation is fully harmonized with the protection of the environment and the maintenance of the high quality of life of our residents.
Given the growing concerns about overdevelopment, what measures have been taken to prevent excessive building?
The balance between development and the preservation of the character of our city is crucial. We do not believe in a model of uncontrolled construction that sacrifices the character and quality of life for economic efficiency. On the contrary, we have set strict urban planning control rules, while at the same time pursuing a “smart” and targeted development. For us, development is not a quantitative issue, but a qualitative one. We want to bring investments that respect the environment, create added value for citizens and strengthen the local economy, without altering the character of our areas.
How does the Municipality involve residents in decision-making processes? Are there plans to enhance citizen participation and transparency in governance?
Democracy begins with local government. From the first day of our term, we have placed particular emphasis on transparency, accountability and participation. We have established online public consultations, regular open meetings and continuous citizen information through digital tools. At the same time, we are strengthening institutions such as Local Councils, which function as channels of communication between residents and the Municipal Authority. In addition, we are moving forward with the development of a new digital participation platform, through which citizens will be able to submit proposals, evaluate projects and actively participate in decision-making.
If you could shape the identity of the areas of Vari, Voula and Vouliagmeni for the next decade, what would be your ideal vision?
Our vision is clear and ambitious: to make the Municipality of Vari, Voula and Vouliagmeni a model of urban and environmental development. Our priority is the implementation of projects with a long-term impact: the completion of the coastal front, the strengthening of the green urban fabric, the upgrading of school infrastructure, the energy autonomy of municipal buildings and the establishment of “smart” solutions in everyday life. The next decade can be the most creative period for our Municipality, as long as we remain true to our values and work with a plan, transparency and vision.
As First Vice President of the Central Union of Municipalities of Greece, does your involvement with the local government community at the national level work for the benefit of the city?
Through this specific institutional capacity, I have the opportunity to bring to the forefront of the national debate the problems, needs, and good practices of local communities. We have brought to the fore issues concerning multi-level governance, sustainable mobility, civil protection and digital transition, with tangible results for our own Municipality. This involvement does not distance me from the everyday life of the city — quite the opposite. The experience, collaborations and access that result from this position are returned, in a meaningful way, to the local community.
Published in “White Paper: The Big Business of the South”, NouPou Media’s special edition spotlighting the current landscape and future prospects of the Athens Riviera.