Press Release by the Region of Attica: Open Consultation for the Upgrade of Metropolitan Parks
An open consultation is being launched with citizens and relevant stakeholders for the full upgrade of the three metropolitan parks of Attica (Pedion tou Areos, “Antonis Tritsis” Park, and Attiko Alsos), as part of the Sustainable Urban Development Strategy.
"New Metropolitan Attica S.A." is launching an open consultation for the upgrade of the metropolitan parks of the Athens metropolitan area, for which the Region of Attica has and/or shares jurisdiction, under the framework of the Sustainable Urban Development Strategy (SUDS).
The consultation invites social partners, municipal and regional authorities, as well as citizens, to contribute their proposals and help shape a strategy that will transform green spaces into modern, functional and environmentally friendly urban oases.
Governor of Attica, Mr. Nikos Hardalias: «At the very beginning of my term of office, I resolved that the parks of Attica would not be left to neglect and indifference.»
Through this initiative, part of the Regional Programme “Attica 2021–2027”, the three most significant metropolitan parks of Attica will be upgraded:
– The cluster of centrally located Pedion tou Areos, Finopoulou Hill and Protomagias Square
– Attiko Alsos
– and The “Antonis Tritsis” Metropolitan Park.
It is worth noting that the zones that will feel the most impact from these interventions are very densely populated districts of the basin, home to approximately 35% of Attica’s population.
Strategic Objectives
Recognizing the challenges posed by climate change, sustainability and the need for improved public green spaces, the Region of Attica is formulating an integrated strategy focused on:
• Ensuring the protection and safety of the parks and visitors, with an emphasis on sustainability measures and reducing environmental impact.
• Functional and aesthetic upgrades through the incorporation of modern technologies and ensuring accessibility for all.
• Interconnecting green spaces to highlight their distinct character and promote a unified metropolitan identity.
Nikos Hardalias: «The image of lawlessness in the parks is changing — we are upgrading infrastructure and safety.»
In his statement, the Governor of Attica, Nikos Hardalias, emphasized: From the moment I assumed office, I committed myself to the idea that the metropolitan parks of Attica would no longer be abandoned. In the preceding years, many of these spaces had fallen into a state of disorder and neglect, even gaining a reputation for illicit activities such as drug trafficking and abuse. Naturally, the consequence of this was that citizens were being put off the prospect of visiting them altogether. The parks’ image and the public perception of them are now beginning to change. We are planning and implementing a comprehensive strategy for sustainable development, returning modern, safe and functional green spaces to the people of Attica."
"With the Sustainable Urban Development Strategy (SUDS), we are creating a unified management framework for Pedion tou Areos, Attiko Alsos, and the ‘Antonis Tritsis’ Park. Our goal is the full upgrade of these parks in terms of infrastructure, safety and usability. With secured funding and a clear timeline, we are putting an end to fragmented management and moving forward with a model that ensures their long-term protection and sustainability."
He concluded: "These spaces belong to everyone. Pedion tou Areos, Attiko Alsos, and the ‘Antonis Tritsis’ Park are not just green lungs — they are places for gathering, recreation and cultural enrichment. They must be open, safe and welcoming to young children, athletes, parents who wish to stroll with their baby carriages and friends and relatives of all ages who want to walk or sit and chat on a park bench. I urge everyone to actively participate in the consultation. Your opinion is invaluable because the new era for Attica’s metropolitan parks is being forged together with its citizens."
Invitation to Participate in the Consultation
The Region of Attica invites all citizens, institutions, professionals and scientific organizations to participate in the consultation, by submitting their views and proposals. All contributions will be taken into account in shaping the final strategy, ensuring a participatory approach in policymaking for urban green spaces.