Questions are mounting over state authorities’ handling of the Liopetri River renovation project, which began in 2020 and was initially scheduled for completion in March 2023.
The contractor has received multiple extensions, with the latest deadline set for 14 January 2025.
However, local authorities have been informed of further expected delays due to financial disputes between the state and the contractor.
The project has faced another setback as a crucial access road, serving both fishermen and a currently closed restaurant, will not be ready by November 15 as planned.
Markos Koumis, deputy mayor of the Liopetri district, told philenews that whilst a recent meeting at the Interior Ministry resolved some payment issues with the contractor, further delays seem inevitable.
“We can confirm the road will not be ready by November 15 as scheduled, and the project will not be completed by the 14 January extension. The contractor has indicated they will request an additional two-and-a-half months’ extension due to payment delays. Since taking office as deputy mayor, I have not witnessed significant progress”, Koumis said.
The €11 million project, which commenced in September 2020, has faced numerous delays.
The Department of Town Planning previously deemed some delays justified, citing archaeological discoveries and the pandemic.
The completion date was initially moved to November 30, 2023, followed by an extension to March 2024, and subsequently to December 17, 2024, partly due to changes in timber specifications for the wharves.
“The contractor has received some payments and resumed work, but will not meet the deadline. Unfortunately, we can only observe and pressure the relevant ministries. We have received many promises. I am concerned that at this pace, the project could take years”, the deputy mayor added.
According to Koumis, local authorities expect to receive an official update on the project’s progress during a site meeting with the contractor and other stakeholders on Friday.
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