- Project Total: €2.8 million budget
- Coverage: Various districts in Hersonissos
- Purpose: Improve rural roads and infrastructure
- Key Goals: Support agriculture and livestock operations
- Direct Benefits: Easier access for farmers, more enjoyable routes for visitors
- Time Frame: 2023–2027 under the EU Common Agricultural Policy
- Types of Work: Road tarmacking, cementing, drainage systems, retaining walls
Hersonissos is pouring €2.8 million into rural development under the Strategic Plan for Agricultural Policy 2023–2027. This isn’t just another ribbon-cutting exercise. These projects aim to strengthen agriculture and livestock industries, while making those winding country roads a bit friendlier for tourists exploring the area. Who doesn’t love a smooth drive through stunning Cretan villages?
The improvements are set to include:
- Upgraded roads for better access to farmlands.
- Resurfacing existing dirt roads with tarmac or cement.
- Small construction works to deal with water drainage and soil erosion.
If your idea of rural charm is driving through pothole-free roads surrounded by olive groves, this is great news. These works aren’t just for locals—visitors heading to smaller, off-the-beaten-track villages or scenic spots will notice a big difference too.
It’s not all talk. Hersonissos’ Municipal Council has already given the green light to several key projects. Here’s a breakdown:
- Road Cementing: From Mochos to Potamies.
- Road Resurfacing (Tarmac): Linking Avdou to the Kastamonitsa and Agia Anna junction.
- Road Upgrades (Tarmac): Outside Kainourgio Chorio.
- Road Resurfacing (Tarmac): Around Episkopi outskirts.
- Road Cementing and Repairs: Between Kalo Chorio and Limnia within Gouves district.
- Cement Work on Rural Roads: Beyond Episkopi village limits.
Each subproject carries its own price tag, allocated as follows:
- €935,000
- €875,000
- €500,000
- €500,000
Together, they total €2.81 million. The technical documentation and tender notices (5/2025 to 8/2025) are set, so this isn’t some vague future promise.
Mayor Zacharias Doxastakis, clearly not a fan of half measures, emphasised the importance: “This work is critical for our local farmers and livestock producers—the backbone of Hersonissos. Sure, it also benefits the broader community and visitors, but our focus is on strengthening the primary sector.” A rare bit of honesty about priorities!
What Does This Mean for You?
- Farmers: Less time dodging craters in the road means more time working productively.
- Tourists: No more suspension-bruising drives on gravel routes.
- Local Economy: A stronger agricultural base indirectly boosts the hospitality sector.
- Environment: Improved drainage systems reduce flooding and erosion in rural spots.
So, those travelling through the area—whether for hiking, sightseeing, or an authentic farm-to-table lunch—can appreciate the smaller joys of effortless travel.
Find out more specifics on the projects and updates here.
