The Council of State ordered a suspension of building permits for four properties on Sifnos island, marking a second intervention after a November interim order was reportedly violated.
The properties, near Chrysopigi beach in the Apokofto area, involve construction of six homes. Residents and homeowners challenging the permits argue the area falls under special 2002 rules protecting Sifnos as a site of outstanding natural beauty.
Owners countered that Milos’ planning office had approved the plots as buildable, citing a path predating 1923. The court’s Suspensions Committee said executing the permits would cause “irreparable harm” to the area’s protected natural, cultural and residential character.
For two permits already under construction, the committee found work had continued despite the order. The case highlights scrutiny of permits issued across Milos, Serifos, Sifnos and Kimolos.
