Papastavrou: Protecting and Strengthening Real Estate Is Government Priority

Environment and Energy Minister Stavros Papastavrou addressed the 43rd Annual Panhellenic Conference of the Panhellenic Federation of Real Estate Owners (POMIDA), reaffirming the government’s commitment to meaningful dialogue and collaboration with property owners. He emphasized that, for New Democracy, real estate is far more than an asset—it represents lifelong effort and national roots, making its protection and enhancement a steadfast governmental priority through responsible policies. Referring to recent talks with POMIDA, he noted significant common ground leading to legislative actions proposed by the Federation. Papastavrou stressed the need for order, simplification, and transparency in the sector—key drivers of efficiency, legal certainty, and genuine property protection. He highlighted major reforms, including the codification of urban planning legislation—consolidating 102 years of law across 170+ acts into 477 articles—and the creation of 227 local and 18 special urban plans. He also announced the upcoming €400 million ‘Renovate – Upgrade’ program, co-launched with the Ministry of National Economy and Finance, targeting building renovations and energy upgrades to empower the middle class and revitalize idle properties. Furthermore, he outlined progress on a digital ‘gov.gr’ platform for urban planning services and the establishment of the National Cadastre and Building Control Organization—a unified, nationwide digital authority overseeing all real estate matters.