WRITTEN QUESTION E-2286/02

by Alexandros Alavanos (GUE/NGL) to the Commission

(25 July 2002)

Subject: Protection of cultural monuments and the construction of a hydroelectric power station on the River Arachthos

It is planned to build a hydroelectric power station at Aghios Nikolaos on the River Arachthos which is protected by Directive 92/43/EC(1) on the protection of natural habitats, and this has alarmed local inhabitants and environmental organisations. They are particularly concerned about the possible destruction of historical and cultural monuments in the region and, above all, the historic Plaka bridge. These fears have been exacerbated by information that, in order to receive the necessary authorisation, the construction firm which undertook the project submitted a topographical map on which the site of the traditional Plaka bridge is located one kilometre further north than its actual location, at a point where the water level will be 8 metres lower.

Can the Commission confirm the accuracy of the environmental impact assessments?

Can it assure local inhabitants that the cultural monuments and the above bridge in particular will not be affected?

(1) OJ L 206, 22.7.1992, p. 7.

Answer given by Mrs Wallström on behalf of the Commission

(23 September 2002)

The Commission, following written question P-3174/01 by Mr Averoff(1) has sent a letter to the Greek authorities asking information regarding three hydroelectric projects in the region of Ipiros. One of the projects concerned was aiming to create a hydroelectric plant in the area of Agios Nikolaos (Arachthos). In particular, the Commission has addressed the issue of compliance with Council Directive 92/43/CEE of 21 May 1992, on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora(2) and the respect of Council Directive 85/337/EEC of 27 June 1985, on the assessment of the effects of certain public and private projects on the environment(3), as modified by Council Directive 97/11/EC of 3 March 1997(4).

The Greek authorities have provided a reply to the above questions and currently the Commission is examining in detail the information received, with a view to assessing whether the installations in question would have a negative effect on the environment.

Concerning the hydroelectric plant in the site of Agios Nikolaos (Arachthos), the Greek authorities have confirmed that the project has not yet been approved. In fact, a study on the Pre-approval of Localisation of the hydroelectric installation has been submitted by the company and is currently under examination by the competent national authorities. If a Decision of Pre-approval of Localisation is taken, an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) study has to be prepared. The EIA of the project needs to identify, describe and assess in an appropriate manner the direct and indirect effects of the project, among other factors, on the cultural heritage.

The Greek authorities are responsible for examining the content and the accuracy of information contained in all these studies. The Commission, in the framework of its competencies, will take all necessary measures to ensure that the above mentioned Community environmental legislation has been respected.

(1) OJ C 134 E, 6.6.2002.

(2) OJ L 206, 22.7.1992.

(3) OJ L 175, 5.7.1985.

(4) OJ L 73, 14.3.1997.