Top Court Rejects "Green Bonuses" in Greek Building Code, Calls for Stricter Environmental Scrutiny

10:26 12/12/2024 - Πηγή: iEfimerida

Greece's highest court has struck down key provisions of the New Building Regulation (ΝΟΚ) that grant incentives for environmentally friendly construction, ruling that they lack scientific backing and potentially harm urban planning.

The Council of State determined that "green bonuses," which allow developers to exceed standard building

limits for eco-friendly features, must be supported by rigorous environmental impact studies tailored to each area's unique characteristics.

The court emphasized that urban development must prioritize public interest and respect local architectural identity.

This landmark decision stems from a case brought by the Municipality of Alimos and various construction stakeholders, who challenged building permits issued under the controversial ΝΟΚ.

The court found that while promoting green building is important, incentives cannot bypass local planning rules or compromise urban integrity.

The ruling will not affect permits where construction has already begun. However, projects in the planning phase or facing legal challenges could be invalidated if they rely on the now-unconstitutional green bonuses.

The Council of State also clarified regulations on building density calculations, rejecting the exclusion of certain features like rooftop spaces and swimming pools from volume limits. Closed balconies and stairwells, however, were deemed compliant.

This decision is expected to reshape urban planning in Greece, requiring stricter environmental assessments and greater scrutiny of building permits.

Developers will need to adapt to a more regulated system that balances sustainability with the preservation of local character. The full implications of the ruling will be detailed in the final decision, expected in January 2025.

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