The multi-year efforts to save the Pikrodafni stream were vindicated by Council of State Decision 2313/2020, which was made public a few days ago.

The Court accepted the action by the Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature, the Hellenic Ornithological Society, Anima, the Citizens Movement of Ilioupoli, as well as active citizens, residents of the area who for many years have been defending Pikrodafni.

The decision of the CoS annulled the approval of environmental terms of the project “Reconstruction of the Pikrodafni stream from Vouliagmeni avenue to its mouth” of the Region of Attica. Pikrodafni, whose name in Greek means ‘oleander’, is one of the last streams of the Athenian basin that hosts a largely natural ecosystem. The planned projects, which were cancelled by the CoS, would essentially turn it into a concrete rainwater conduit; moreover they would not deal with the illegali constructions in parts of the streambed and the other chronic problems of the stream (narrow bridges, illegal dumping, etc.).

The decision is deemed to be very positive. In addition to the annulment of the project, the Court, on the basis of its case-law, obliges the Administration to:
– proceed to the immediate delimitation of the stream in its whole river-basin,
– substantially protect the stream and prevent the construction of new buildings within the stream,
– record the illegal constructions in the stream and not allow the suspension or exception of demolitions.

At times when environmental problems and illegalities are becoming chronic, this decision was a real vindication for the Pikrodafni stream. We will nevertheless monitor the case until the new demarcation proposal is submitted by the Administration.

It is noted that the value and significance of Pikrodafni – both as an ecosystem and for the quality of life of the inhabitants – have been systematically documented by scientists, competent bodies and active citizens, but have also been reflected in legislation and case law. The HSPN has long been involved with Pikrodafni; the book “Discovering Pikrodafni” (2012) by Martin Gaetlich, published by HSPN and the Municipality of Agios Dimitrios, describes the nature of Pikrodafni and its relationship with humans. At the same time, the continuing observations and records of birdlife and other fauna and flora by citizen science show that it is a living ecosystem within a densely built urban area.

The Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature wishes to thank the lawyer of the case Mr. Giorgos Politis, as well as the entire team that worked for 5 years and prepared legal and technical issues of the appeal.

Pikrodafni, like other small urban and suburban streams of Attica, is valuable both for the ecosystems and for the quality of life of its inhabitants. It deserves and must be protected.

(Photos: A.Vidalis, M.Gaetlich, N.Petrou)