Scope, Basic Objectives and Methodology of the Research

ORGANISATION FOR PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION OF ATHENS

NTUA – URBAN ENVIRONMENT LABORATORY

RESEARCH PROJECT

METROPOLITAN PARK AT GOUDI – ILISOS, ATHENS

SUMMARY PRESENTATION

2002

SCOPE, BASIC OBJECTIVES AND METHODOLOGY OF THE RESEARCH

In November 1997, the Organisation for Planning and Environmental Protection of Athens (Athens Organisation) assigned to the Urban Environment Laboratory of the Department of Urban and Regional Planning, of the NTUA School of Architecture, a Research Project entitled “Metropolitan Park at Goudi”. This project was completed in May 1999.

The Design Area extends south-east of Messoghion Avenue, on both sides of Katekhaki Avenue upto the foot of Hymettus mountain, and includes the areas of the former and present military camps of Varyti, Zorba, Fakinou and Plessa, the Pentagon, the Zographou Technical University Campus, the Centre for Medical- Biological Research of the Academy of Athens, the University Research Institute of Mental Health of the University of Athens; the ‘Red Cross’, ‘People’s’, ‘Children’s’, ‘General State’ and ‘Sotiria’ civil hospitals; the 401 General Army and 251 General Navy military hospitals; the ministries of Public Order, National Defence, Justice and Transport (under construction); the Greek Radio Television S.A. complex (former Armed Forces Information Service); the Gendarmerie School and Grove; the Papagou Grove; the sports grounds of the Municipalities of Athens, Zographou and Papagou; the nursery garden of the Municipality of Athens; the Riding Centre of the Athletics General Secretariat; schools of the adjacent Municipalities; and, finally, the forest and grassland expanses of the Officers’ Independent Construction Organisation (AOOA).

The overall expanse of the Design Area is approximately 4,500,000 sq.m. (1,125 acres).

Scope and Objectives of the Research

In accordance with the Athens Organisation, the general aim of the research is “the establishment of a Metropolitan Park at Goudi which will include and incorporate the functions already existing in the area pertaining to health - welfare - education - administration - sports in an extensive park of green having high ecological quality and with limited uses for culture, sports and recreation”.

“The uses which can be included in the Park should, on the one hand, contribute to the environmental upgrading of the greater area where urban uses have already been developed and, on the other hand, contribute to the interface of the urban green with the Hymettus peri-urban green. These uses should be harmonised with the function of the Park as a “linking” space between the adjacent municipalities regarding cultural and social activities, and as an “intermediate” space of green between the Hymettus peri-urban forest and the recreation pole of the Tourkovounia hills.

“Regarding the materialisation of the project, the possibility to establish a system for a uniform management and materialisation of the project in co-operation with Central Bodies and Organisations of the Local Government, will be examined”.

2 Stages of the Project

The research project had two stages:

During Stage One, the assessment of the present situation and the determination of the nature of the Park have been completed. The general principles for its function have been established, and alternative scenarios have been presented with regard to the nature of the activities proposed.

During Stage One, the proposal for organising the character, the urban-planning structure and the activities of the Park has been completed, by means of their presentation at the level of natural planning. The backgrounds used during Stage Two were produced through a photo-interpretation of air photographs at a 1:1000 scale by the Land Registration and Mapping Organisation of Greece specially for the specific research project.

During the entire first as well as second stage, the research group was in communication with the representatives from the Local Government and the residents’ Associations in the area, with all the Bodies involved in the formation of the Park (Ministries, Hospitals, Educational Institutions), so that the research would take into account and co-assess their views and proposals.

More specifically, during Stage Two, the research group has participated in nine special meetings held in the offices of the Athens Organisation, during which it briefed the representatives of the competent departments regarding the project, the works proposed and the arrangements. During these meetings, the views of the various bodies regarding the specific project as well as the planning of their own projects were presented. They were both co-assessed by the research group, the further aim of which was their consent and, therefore, the feasibility of the project of establishing the Metropolitan Park.

The result of these meetings was a modification in the proposals submitted in Stage One. Characteristically, it can be mentioned that there is a modification in the limits of the areas included in the Management Body of the Park or in the organising of the routes of the Means of Public Transport which will serve the Park and the surrounding area.

COMPOSITION OF THE RESEARCH GROUP

The research group includes: teachers, researchers and candidates for a doctor’s degree from the National Technical University of Athens; Professor Yiannis Polyzos who is in charge of scientific work; as well as scholars and special advisers.

Specifically, those who have participated are:

• Architect Engineers and City Planners: Evi Karaviti, Nontas Kremmydas (OPEPA) Maria Mantouvalou (NTUA), Nicos Belavilas (NTUA), Ghiorgos Patrikios, Yiannis Polyzos (NTUA),

3 Dimitris Polychronopoulos (NTUA), Vasso Trova • Civil Engineers and Transportation Engineers: Thanos Vlastos (NTUA), Maria Kalantzopoulou • Topographer Engineers: Dionyssis Balodimos (NTUA), T. Bithas (STTP, NTUA) Demosthenis Stathas (NTUA) • Mechanical - Electrical Engineers: Dimitris Kouremenos (NTUA), Ghiorgos Papadopoulos, Nicos Dimitrakopoulos • Economists: Methodi S.A., Nicos Gounarakis, Vanghelis Kotsonis • Environmentalists: Kimon Hadjibiros (NTUA), Nancy Mitsou • Landscape Architect: Maria Gounaraki • Foresters - Agronomists: Dimitris Alifranghis (University of Thessaloniki), Alexandros Dimitrakopoulos (University of Thessaloniki), • Mineralogist: Antonis Franghiscos (NTUA) • Lawyers: Ghiorgos Papadimitriou (NUA), Maria Florou • Historian: Leda Papastefanaki • Geographic Information Systems – Electronic Layout: Ghiorgos Kalantzopoulos, Ada Pavlopoulou, Evi Karaviti, Ghiorgos Patrikios • Photo-interpretation and production of topographic backgrounds: Ghiorgos Makaritis (Land Registration and Mapping Organisation of Greece) • Secretarial and Planning Support: Vivi Kostopoulou, Ioli Vrychea- Chaidopoulou, Fani Raftopoulou • Translation: Ivi Rokkou

COMPOSITION OF THE MONITORING COMMITTEE

The Monitoring Committee comprises of representatives from the Organisation for Planning and Environmental Protection of Athens (Athens Organisation) and from the Municipalities of Athens and Zographou.

• Eleni Eliopoulou, co-ordinator (Athens Organisation) • Maro Evanghelidou (Athens Organisation) • Emilia Veaki (Athens Organisation) • Roe Kloutsinioti (Athens Organisation) • Apostolis Gheronikos, Elli Papaconstantinou (Municipality of Athens) • Yiannis Rengas (until 31-12-1998), Gherassimos Markatos (Municipality of Zographou) • Antonis Kontakis (Infrastructure Directorate), General Army Staff

Those who participated in the special meetings held at the Athens Organisation during Stage Two, which were chaired by Mrs. Maria Patelarou, Vice-President of the OPEPA, were: the Monitoring Committee and Messrs. Vassilis Liongas, Adviser to the Minister of National Defence; Anastassios Tsitsis, Brigadier, Infrastructure Directorate of the General Army Staff; Anghelos Ghavalas, Bureau of the Prime Minister for the Quality of Life; Socrates Pefanis and Eleni Pournara, Special Works Directorate of the Ministry of Environment, Planning and Public Works; Domna Papathoma, Directorate of Urban Planning of the Ministry of Environment, Planning and Public Works.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The research group would like to thank:

• The Mayors of: Zographou, F. Sakellaridou; Papagou, V. Xydis; Neo Psychico, A. Vezyrghiannis; and also, the Deputy Mayor of Athens, I. Skalaeos. • The Municipal and District Councillors of the Municipalities of Athens, Zographou and Papagou; the Representatives of the Residents’ Associations and, more specifically, the ladies and gentlemen: A. Alefantinos, V. Karayiannis, I. Antoniou, Th. Agathaki, E. Stremmenou, Th. Mavri, N. Gheorghiopoulo, N. Roi. • The officials, ladies and gentlemen: E. Antonaka, General Secretariat of Athletics; A. Koumoutsou, Directorate of Urban Planning of the Ministry of Environment, Planning and Public Works; E. Bourlou, Technical Service of the Ministry of Public Order; L. Karavia, Technical Service of the Ministry of the Interior, Public Administration and Decentralisation; F. Mata, Riding Centre of the General Secretariat of Athletics; L. Galeos and Ch. Antoniadis, Ministry of the Interior – NIS; A. Pangalou and V. Theodorou, Technical Services Directorate of the Ministry of Health and Welfare; Ch. Kontoleon, I. Karemfyllaki and A. Stratakos, Sotiria Hospital; V. Athanassopoulos, 401 Army Hospital. • The Army History Directorate, 6th Bureau. • The National Defence Fund and Colonel Mr. Pizanias and Mr. Kalokyris in particular. • The Army Archives Service and Mrs. V. Sfalangakou in particular. • The paediatrician of the Aghia Sophia Children’s Hospital, Mr. I. Tsoukalas. • The former directress of the Biochemical Department of the Sotiria Hospital, Mrs. Ioannou-Delivoria. • The professor of the NTUA, Mr. Aim. Koroneos and the architect Antonis Vezyroglou of the Technical Department of the NTUA. • The Greek Literary and Historical Archive (ELIA) and Messrs. I. Raptis and G. Kharonitis in particular.

CHAPTER 1: “INCORPORATION OF THE PARK INTO THE GREATER DESIGN AREA”

The proposals concerning the incorporation of the Metropolitan Park into the greater urban area are formulated through two different levels of approach: the level of a translocal scope and the level of a more local but equally important influence on the adjacent Municipalities1.

1.1 . ORGANISATION OF TRANSLOCAL SCALE CONNECTIONS – ACCESSES

Specifically, the following are proposed:

• A connection with the Lycabettus hill, by means of an expansion of the local connections of the Municipality of Zographou, the quarters of Ambelokipi and the quarters of Goudi. • A connection with the areas of Attico Grove – Tourkovounia hills, with an expansion of the local connections of the quarters of Ambelokipi and Ellinorosson-Erythrou. • A connection with the green areas of the Ilissia Grove, with an expansion of the local connections of the quarter of Goudi and the Municipality of Zographou. • A connection with the Tsakou hill (boundaries of Municipalities of Aghia Paraskevi and Cholargos) and with the areas of green which are planned peripherally, at the limits of Hymettus, with expansions of the local connections of the Municipalities of Papagou and Cholargos. • Alexandras, Vass. Sophias and Mesoghion Avenues will be the basic axes of connection and flow from and to the Park, and their development and special enhancement are proposed.

In order to strengthen these connections, the following are planned: to improve movements through the means of public transport (particularly the new metro line and mainly its station at Katekhaki) and to effect a series of mild interventions of replanning and plantings. Also, along the Alexandras and Vass. Sophias avenues, it is proposed to develop and incorporate a series of cultural areas and spaces of green.

1.2. ORGANISATION AND DESCRIPTION OF LOCAL SCALE CONNECTIONS – ACCESSES

The aim of the proposal is to form a network which will enhance the connection of the Park with the most important outdoor-natural spaces of the adjacent Municipalities and Quarters, but also with a number of their local, social, cultural and commercial

1 The Municipalities of Zographou, Papagou, Cholargos, Neo Psychico and the Quarters of the Seventh Athens Municipal District, Ambelokipi, Ellinorosson and Erythros Stavros.

6 activities. At the same time, it is sought to have a clear and perceptive organisation and a qualitative differentiation of this network from the neighbouring environment, aiming at an enhancement and recognition of the physiognomy of the Park.

Analytically, the proposals are as follows:

• Natural planning of the network – bioclimatic interventions: The formation of an adjoining and “protected” walk for pedestrians will unify significant selected spaces and activities of the city, under conditions of a favourable microclimate, with the use of suitable paving materials, a suitable selection and planning of plantings, re-planning of the existing pavements and small outdoor spaces in the neighbouring quarters.

• Connection and incorporation into the network of local, cultural, social and commercial activities: The aim is the enhancement of a series of non-formal connections (walks) which previously existed unorganised in the urban perimeter of the Park and the incorporation into them of any existing activities having a cultural, recreational and commercial character as well as of any local administration centres.

• Circulation planning of the network: The aim is to improve the mobility of pedestrians in the greater urban area. For this reason, it is proposed to re-plan sections of roads, of mild circulation mostly, and to connect them with existing or planned pedestrian zones.

• Aesthetic and morphological identity of the network – Relations with the Park: The proposed interventions in the perimetric network (rows of trees, lighting, urban equipment etc.), should be characterised by a morphological simplicity and be as unified as possible, so that they are recognised as forerunners of the internal ambience and functions prevalent in the Park.

• Planning and organisation of entrances-squares in the Park having graded importance: It is proposed to articulate the aforementioned network in a series of organised entraces-squares in the Park which will have graded importance; also to effect specific interventions, particularly where the great traffic axes constitute an intense natural obstacle (e.g., the proposed main entrance in the junction of Mesoghion and Katekhaki avenues).

CHAPTER 2: URBAN-PLANNING ORGANISATION OF THE PARK

2.1. GENERAL PRINCIPLES FOR URBAN-PLANNING ORGANISATION

Identity and character of the Park

The identity of the Park is based on:

• The recognition and projection of the basic geomorphological-natural features of the landscape (Ilissos, direct neighbouring with Hymettus) and of the evidence of its history (Goudi Military Town). • The creation of a “high ecological quality” green, with an upgrading of the natural ecosystems and existing plantings, and with suitable new extensive plantings. • The enrichment of the opportunities for recreation, which will be provided by the natural and artificial formations of green and free spaces, by means of cultural and recreational functions.

In this “Park of high ecological quality”, the important facilities for health, education, research and administratiion which are functioning and developing within the limits of the Design Area will also be included, by means of an expansion and upgrading of their Green and their free expanses; from the standpoint of their function, however, they will preserve their independence.

The Metropolitan Park will have a multifold function and a polyvalent character:

• It will combine the character of an urban park of trans-local importance with providing vital spaces for relaxation regarding the adjacent residential areas. • It will combine walks in nature (Ilissos, Hymettus, forest expanses, urban park), with the participation in cultural and mild sports activities which will be accommodated in the remarkable listed buildings and in suitably shaped free spaces. • It will be a vital recreational spot for the students of the Higher Education Institutions in the broader area, who will go through the Park in their walk from the Katekhaki Metro station and from the bus stops of the two proposed bus lines. The dynamism of this population group particularly favours the development of cultural activities having a character of search and experimentation. • It will be a vital recreation spot for those who work, have business and visit the hospitals, the research centres and the public administration executive services.

Organisation of the Park into two Zones

The important existing uses and commitments in the Design Area, the weakness of the existing institutional framework, and the high cost for creating and operating a

8 corresponding Park, has led to a proposal for the organisation two geographical zones in the Metropolitan Park at Goudi-Ilissos:

The First Zone will be the Central Core of the Park (having a net area of approximately 362.5 acres/1,450,000 sq.m.) and it will constitute essentially its public communal section. It will be enclosed in its most part having a great number of entrances, and it will be managed by a uniform Body2. In this zone, the use of the communal green predominates; the communal green is formed by partial parks and groves which will be diversified in correspondence with the natural features of the landscape and the plantings. The natural elements of the area which will be enhanced are the following:

• Ilissos: The continuity of the bed and the riparious vegetation are restored and enhanced, combined with possibilities for walks and stops. • Hymettus: The natural ecosystems are upgraded and outlets from the Park towards the mountainous masses are provided.

Regarding the First Zone, there will be an overall replanning of the area and its activities: those present functions which are not consistent with the character proposed for this large communal area will be removed and new cultural uses will be planned in the historical buildings which will be preserved. As a rule, any construction of new buildings is prohibited. Only small scale interventions will be allowed regarding the architectural enhancement of the existing buildings and the space directly surrounding them.

The new activities refer to two axes:

• Fine Arts: mainly exhibitions and activities relating to plastic arts, but also events relating to music, theatre and cinema; • Development of the Natural Landscape and the History of the Area.

The Second Zone will be the Park Control Zone (net expanse of approximately 600 acres) and will constitute the section of the Park which will continue to be under the management of those bodies which at present own the area (Municipalities, Hospitals, Education Institutions, Ministries etc.). With regard to this zone, a regulative framework will be in force concerning construction and protection of the buildings, the landscape and the plantings, as well as specific guidelines concerning the planning and regeneration of their open spaces, so that they can be organically correlated with the Central Core of the Park.

In the Control Zone, the existing uses for Health – Welfare – Education – Research will be preserved as a rule; it is proposed, however, to limit their possibilities to expand and to reduce their approved particularly high terms of construction, with the exception of the Plessa Camp which it is proposed to be transformed into an area of green, as planned in the Master Urban Plan. Finally, it is proposed to reduce the

2 It includes the areas: Grove of the Municipality of Athens; an expanse of the National Defence Fund (TETHA); an expanse of the Officers’ Independent Construction Organisation (AOOA); an expanse of the Land Public Corporation (KED); the Riding Centre (KEIP) and the Greek Radio Television (ERT).

9 functions of the Central Administration gradually but radically, since four ministries are already located in this section of Messoghion Avenue.

In the Control Zone, there are two categories of activities:

• The first one refers to activities by bodies which are correlated with the Park with regard to urban-planning, they are articulated along the axes of the movement of pedestrians crossing the area, and connect them with the Central Core of the Park and with the broader area3. These uses are adjacent with the Park and they control and manage the access to and from it, according to their hours of work.

• The second one refers to activities with a complete functional independence, which are not in co-operation with the rest of the Park. Regarding some of these activities, specific urban-planning arrangements are proposed which will improve their functionality (opening up of new accesses, parking control etc.)4

2.2 URBAN-PLANNING STRUCTURE

Regarding the organisation of movements and functions of the Park, two main crossing axes predominate, which have the character of public walks. The point of intersection of the two main axes is set at the complex of buildings of the Vehicles Shed at the former Military Town of Goudi (now Army Grove) and is designated as the central area for exhibitions and recreation of the Park, the Centre for Fine Arts. The starting points of these axes designate also the main entrances to the Park. As a rule, entrance squares with information stalls will be formed at these.

These two functional axes organise the activities of the Central Core of the Park as well as its correlation with the Control Zone. They are zones of a varying width (from 10 to 25 metres) which are shaped in various ways and which accommodate, in addition to the circulation of pedestrians, a cyclists lane with traffic signals, play areas, sitting areas, as well as formations for outdoor sculpture exhibitions. Around them, cultural and recreational activities are planned in the historical buildings proposed for preservation. At the same time, the sports activities are suitably strengthened. In connection with the two main axes, a set of secondary paths is articulated.

A third axis, of an ecological character, moves along the main stream of Ilissos, it is a walk among the natural landscape and it is articulated with small walks which lead down to its bed.

Main axes for the circulation of pedestrians and bicycles

3 Technical University Campus; Sotiria, General State and Children’s hospitals; Centre for Medical- Biological Research; and Institute of Mental Health of the Athens University. 4 Ministries of Public Order, National Defence and Transport; 401 and 251 military hospitals; National Centre of Immediate Aid; Plessa Camp; the Erythros Stavros and People’s hospitals; “Politia” shopping centre at Erythros Stavros; and, the Medical School of the University of Athens.

10 The first main axis starts from Messoghion avenue, it goes through the Metropolitan Park having a Southeast to Northwest direction, and ends up at Iroon Polytechniou street at Zographou (Messoghion-Zographou axis). This important walk traverses the central area of the Park; it passes over Ilissos via a small bridge; it continues west of the Sports Centre of the Municipality of Athens; it traverses the area of the Technical University Campus having as reference point the buildings of the new Library and the Administration of the National Technical University of Athens; it serves the residential areas of the Municipality of Zographou; and, it ends up at the University Campus.

The second main axis, starts from Papadiamantopoulou street, next to the Children’s Hospitals, and ends up at Kyprou street, next to the Papagou Aghia Skepi church (Papadiamantopoulou-Kyprou axis). In order to secure the continuity of the walk along this axis, the problem of surmounting Katekhaki avenue is dealt with in a twofold manner: On the one hand, via an underground wide passage having a width of 60 metres and, on the other hand, via a footbridge at the point of the Katekhaki avenue entrances (at present the Army Grove entrance) which connects the two sections of this walk over the ground.

The third axis has an ecological character (Rythmos Refreshment Pavilion-Aghios Ioannis Theologos Monastery axis). It gets into the Park from the intersection of G. Papandreou and Megalou Alexandrou streets; it follows the trail of the main stream of Ilissos, along the Olaf Palme and G. Papandreou streets; it passes the Katekhaki avenue via a wide underground passage; and, it follows the river-bed upto its exit from the area of the Park. From this point on, there is a provision for a possibility to continue the walk along Ilissos, upto its headwaters at the Aghios Ioannis Theologos Monastery.

A series of secondary paths and a set of footpaths are articulated on the main walks. On the main as well as on the secondary axes, a movement of vehicles is possible for the service of the Park, fire fighting and rubbish collection.

Additionally, there will be two special secondary axes in the Control Zone: The first one starts from the Museum for Children’s Toys in the Core of the Park and ends up at the entrance of the Aghia Sophia Children’s Hospital, on Thivon street, traversing its courtyard and having as a pole of reference the Paediatrics Museum. The second one traverses the courtyard of the Centre for Medical-Biological Research and the outdoor space of Sotiria hospital, having as poles of reference the Kyriazidio building which will house the Museum, and the Cinema-Theatre Hall building of the hospital. It is divided into two legs which will end up at the present entrance of Sotiria hospital at Messoghion avenue and at the new entrance at Yghia street respectively.

Main, secondary and functional entrances to the Park

Three categories of entrances are land-planned in the Park: main, secondary and functional entrances.

The main entrances to the Park are eight: The main entrances belong to the Core of the Park and they are under the management of the uniform Body. With regard to

11 their form, they form squares for the reception of visitors and they have an information pavilion regarding the activities of the Park. They will be probably guarded on a 24-hour basis. These entrances are articulated with the main axes of pedestrians circulation in the Central Core of the Park and with the network connecting the Park with the most important outdoor natural spaces of the adjacent Municipalities and quarters. Analytically these are:

(E1) and (E2) Katekhaki (vis-a-vis at the avenue and combined with an undergound passage and a footbridge); (E3) Katekhaki Metro, at the intersection of Messoghion and Katekhaki avenues (combined with the Katekhaki metro); (E4) Gendarmerie School, at Messoghion avenue; (E5) Children’s Hospitals, an extension of Papadiamantopoulou street; (E6) Ilissos (Sports Park/Rythmos–Zographou Refreshment Pavilion); (E7) Municipality of Athens Sports Park; (E8) Aghia Skepi at Papagou (Kyprou street).

The secondary entrances to the Park are nine: The secondary entrances are articulated with secondary axes of access into the Core of the Park and have a local character; however, they provide the necessary accessibility it should have from the densely built neighbouring residential areas. All the secondary entrances belong to the Core of the Park and are managed by its Body; however, they will probably remain open during certain hours, during the morning or noon guard shift. Analytically they are:

(D1) Greek Radio Television (at Messoghion avenue, at the point of the present entrance); (D2) Grove of the Municipality of Athens (at Messoghion avenue, at the point of the present entrance); (D3) Riding School (new entrance at the intersection of Trikalon and Levadias streets); (D4) Library of the Municipality of Athens (at Kokkinopoulou street at the point of the present Zorba camp entrance); (D5) Ilissos Entrance (a new entrance at Str. Balodimou street at Papagou); (D6) Cultural Centre of the Municipality of Papagou (a new entrance at the end of Ellispontou street); (D7) Sports Park of the Municipality of Papagou (a new entrance at Ethnikis Amynis street); (D8) Papagou Schools (at the point of the old entrance towards the Institute of Mental Health of the University of Athens at Argyrokastrou street); (D9) Centre for Medical-Biological Research – Katekhaki Metro (a new entrance at the end of the new pedestrian zone behind the military hospitals).

Functional entrances into the Park: Functional are considered those entrances which serve the access from the Control Zone to the Central Core of the Park as well as the independent activities in the Control Zone. These include the new entrances which are located in the perimeter of the Central Core of the Park but are under the control and management of the Control Zone Bodies, as well as the existing entrances to the functions in the Control Zone.

2.3. PRINCIPLES AND GUIDELINES FOR NATURAL PLANNING

Planning of the main axes for pedestrians

The main axes for pedestrians have been planned as an urban intervention into the Park and constitute a unified system together with the historical buildings of the Military Town of Goudi. Their planning follows the organisation of the harsh geometry of a Military Town. Unlike this, the spaces between, the secondary roads, the footpaths as well as the formations follow the organic form of a natural landscape. The planning of the Metropolitan Park is organised on the basis of this contrast.

The main axis of Papadiamantopoulou-Kyprou streets traverses Katekhaki avenue via an underground passage which is 60m wide and approximately 4-5m heigh. Particular attention is required for a mild formation of the slopes of the excavation, so that the sloping will be smooth and form a continuity with the natural landscape. During the first stage of the project it is anticipated to make a footbridge, the mapping out of which also follows the geometrical rules for a synthesis of the main axes. The passing through of service vehicles is not allowed in two sections of the main axes only, as in the specific places the axes are passing though existing spaces of high green, the preservation of which is considered necessary.

In addition to the circulation of pedestrians and vehicles, the main axes also accommodate various activities which mainly are directly or indirectly related to the Plastic Arts (e.g. areas with toys-sculptures, sitting spots within spaces of green, sculpture exhibitions within specially shaped spaces of green, spaces for small outdoor markets etc.)

Planning of the ecological axis of Ilissos

In principle, the stream is enhanced as a natural element while it preserves as many of its natural features as possible, in such a way as to make its presence easily perceived. Towards this orientation, the presence of the water element on its bed is secured. Also, it is enhanced as a path, parallel to which a walker can be led to the natural – peri-urban area, to the mountain, but it is also granted its significance in connection with the history of the city of Athens.

In the Core of the Park, the riparian walk constitutes the major instrument for the recognition of the stream. Thus, the ecological path takes on central features and is marked with special formations, flagstone paving etc. From there on and upto the boundary of the Central Core of the Park at Pindou street, the path can take on more natural features. The formation of the walk along the secondary branch of the stream can be also correspondent to this.

Along both branches of the stream, four bridgings are planned: one of them belongs to a main axis of pedestrian circulation and it is planned in such a way as to contribute morphologically to the enhancement of the natural element of Ilissos, while the remaining three, having a smaller width, are combined with footpaths.

13 The passage of Ilissos under Katekhaki avenue requires a specific morphological elaboration. The replacing of the existing sewer by a passage approximately 40m. wide, is considered necessary for the enhancement of the uniform character of the steam, with its slopes in full development; this is coupled by the organising of a pedestrians walk which will be parallel to its bed.

Finally, the rehabilitation of the confluence of the two branches of the stream constitutes a very significant intervention regarding the unification of the direct area with the stream. It is proposed that a second intervention, of a landscaping character, should be the formation of small water catchments along the main branch; these will hold the rainwater during the winter months, so that, by means of an increase in humidity in the direct environment and, consequently, in the development of the riparious vegetation, the natural character of the landscape will be strengthened. It is possible to strengthen the existence of water on the bed of the stream with a suitable planning regarding the drainage of rainwater in the greater area, after its purification with suitable filters and with a provision for emptying the catchments during the summer so that any unpleasant consequences arising from the existence of stagnant water can be avoided.

Guidelines regarding the construction materials

Generally, it is proposed to make an exemplary use of the materials which can be organised in the following categories:

• Earthy absorbent materials; • Earth with ‘supports’ for the movement of pedestrians and vehicles; • Materials which do not allow thermal accumulation and are not water absorbent.

On the outdoor formations, it is proposed to use absorbent materials. The only sections with hard surfaces are those of the main pedestrian axes as well as the secondary pedestrian zones, where service vehicles and bicyles will circulate. Indicative materials which can be used are: paving-stones, marble, concrete zones, flagstones, other non-asphalt materials, at a proportion which will be determined by a further detailed planning.

With regard to the parking spaces, it is proposed that the zone for the circulation of vehicles should be constructed with asphalt layers, whereas the parking places should have an open type floor, with riddled paving-stones placed on the ground.

CHAPTER 3: PROPOSED FUNCTIONS OF THE PARK

3.1. PRINCIPLES FOR THE ORGANISATION OF THE USES

The future uses of the Park are grouped into three major categories:

• Uses compatible with the function and the character of the Park: These are preserved, improved and re-organised in relation to the entirety of the area5. • Uses incompatible with the function and the character of the Park: It is proposed that these should be removed6. • New uses: It concerns activities relating to culture, athletics and recreation which are land-planned in existing buildings to be systematically re-used.

3.2. DESCRIPTION OF FUNCTIONS AND ACTIVITIES

The activities proposed within the Central Core of the Park are organised in unities; these are articulated on the basis of its two main pedestrianised axes and, analytically, and per stage of materialisation of the Park, they are:

STAGE ONE: target year 2004

1. Fine Arts Centre South-east of Katekhaki avenue and at the intersection point of the two main axes of pedestrians, there are four oblong identical buildings of the Vehicles Sheds, organised in two wings in succession and having a surface of approximately 1,250 sq.m. each; these buildings have been constructed around the year 1900; it has been proposed by the research group that they should be characterised as listed buildings together with the entirety of the historical buildings of the Military Town.

It is proposed to repair and re-use these four twin buildings whilst respecting their character and the uniformity of their spaces, in order to house permanent and periodic Art Exhibitions (a surface of approximately 5,000 sq.m.).

There is provision that one of the buildings could also be used as a concert or congress place. The two others can accommodate exhibitions of works of art in co- operation with existing bodies, like the National Gallery or the Museum of Modern

5 Such uses are the existing sports facilities of the Municipalities of Athens, Zographou and Papagou, as well as the Riding Centre of the Athletics General Secretariat which, after the year 2004 will be transformed into a Riding School. 6 Such uses are: the active military installations (Fakinou, Plessa and Zorba camps); the installations of the Greek Radio Television; the Police Officers School; the petrol station at Messoghion avenue; the outdoor parking space between the Ministry of Public Order and the Ministry of Justice; the spaces for parking and repairing of state vehicles in various spots in the area; and, finally, the offices of the Officers Independent Construction Organisation (AOOA) at Katekhaki avenue.

15 Art which is under construction, etc.; regarding the fourth building, it is proposed that it could be let to private exhibition hall enterprises. Correspondingly, the central outdoor area of the complex is shaped in such a way as to accommodate music events as well as outdoor exhibitions of works of art, whilst sculpture works will be exhibited on both sides of the main axes.

Regarding the neighbouring and also remarkable two-storeyed building of the Lowland Artillery Headquarters: It is proposed that this should house, on the first floor, the auxiliary areas for the Exhibitions of the Fine Arts Centre, and on the ground floor, a Cafe-Restaurant (a surface of 450x2=900 sq.m.).

Finally, regarding the two-storeyed mid-war building which is relevant to this building unity and today houses the Military Archives Service: It is proposed that this should house, on the first floor, the spaces needed for the Administration of the Fine Arts Centre, and on the ground floor, an Information Centre, a First- Aid Centre etc. (a surface of 500x2=1,000 sq.m.).

2. Museum of Military History and Technology Near the above central complex of the Park, a typical mid-war industrial building, the former Military Bakery is situated: It is proposed to repair and re-use it in order to house permanent and periodic exhibitions with subjects pertaining to military history and technology from ancient times and until now (a surface of approximately 4,150 sq.m.). Correspondingly, it is proposed that its extant equipment should be preserved and incorporated into the thematic material of the proposed Museum.

In the same geographical unity, regarding the other three smaller buildings of the Base Factories Complex (buildings for making Acetylene and Oxygen, and a Sub-Station of Electricity): It is proposed that they should be preserved as they are now, together with their equipment.

3. Centre for Environmental Sensitisation regarding Ilissos and the streams of Attica Very near the main branch of Ilissos and east of the Museum of Military History and Technology, there is a one-storey military warehouse: It is proposed that this should house the Centre for Environmental Sensitisation regarding Ilissos and the streams of Attica (a surface of approximately 525 sq.m.); it will accommodate exhibitions on the history of Ilissos and its evolution within the urban landscape of the capital, on the role and significance of the streams, as well as presentations of its characteristic flora and fauna, by means of photographic and audio material.

4. Education and Exhibition Gardens – Centre for Plant Technical Reshapings – Outdoor Recreation Between Ilissos and the 251 General Air Force Hospital, at the area of the Nursery- Garden of the Municipality of Athens and at an expanse owned by the Land Public Corporation which has been given to the University of Athens, an extensive installation for Education and Exhibition Gardens will be made, with a Demonstrative Greenhouse and organised spaces for Outdoor Recreation. Also at this expanse, it is planned to install the Centre for Plant Technical Reshapings (an

16 overall expanse of 12.5 acres of shaped spaces) as well as a new building (Greenhouse) having a surface of approximately 2,000 sq.m.

The installation of the Education and Exhibition Gardens is proposed to be included among the first works of the Metropolitan Park, so that they can constitute the initial nursery-garden for the plantings of the Park itself.

At the centre of this installation it is proposed to form a square (which will be the location of the Demonstrative Greenhouse); this will constitute a nodal point for the section of the Park which will be east of Katekhaki avenue. The outdoor space can accommodate periodic floriculture fairs. Finally, in the same unity and on both sides of the Papadiamantopoulou-Kyprou main axis of pedestrians circulation, spaces for Play and Recreation are land-planned; these will have large sculpted constructions for children and other activities for adults which may or may not require any constructions (e.g. walls for climbing, a stationary balloon in order to see the Park and the city from on high, games with models of vehicles etc.).

It is proposed that the present auxiliary buildings of the Nursery-Garden of the Municipality of Athens should be demolished. For the auxiliary and warehousing needs of this installation, it is proposed to re-use two small formerly military buildings belonging to the Fakinou camp which, at the same time, will also house the Technical Services of the Park.

After the year 2004, and in a building of the Fakinou camp, a Centre for Environmental Sensitisation regarding Ilissos and the Attica Landscape will be created; this will include spaces for meetings and seminars for children and adults, laboratories of environmental expression etc.

5. Museum of Children’s Toys The first group of buildings will be formed from a set of oblong buildings in parallel arrangement, having a simple construction, dating from the late 1920s. The proximity of this complex with the two Children’s hospitals and the existence in the latter of a large number of children who have a limited in time but regular potential to go out from the nursing areas, have contributed into selecting this land-planning: It is proposed to land-plan activities focusing on children. (a surface of approximately 4,000 sq.m.).

Specifically, in this unity it is proposed to land-plan an annex of the Childhood and Toys Collection Department of the Benaki Museum which will come together with a library of children’s books. Also, one of the unities of the collection – Child, Birth and Babyhood – has a relevant theme with the establishment of a Paediatrics Museum in a building of the Aghia Sophia Hospital which is planned by the Children'’ hospital.

The linear arrangement of the buildings is an ideal one regarding the narrative dimension of the collection as well as regarding the setting up of independent spaces for warehousing, maintenance of the exhibits, library, sales etc. Only a small section of the complex situated towards the hospital will be demolished so that some access can be formed from the latter towards the Park. The outdoor space is used mainly as

17 part of the Museum, whilst in one of its sections a controlled large Children’s Playground will be formed.

6. Exhibition Centre for Children’s Books and Toys In the second group of buildings there are two remarkable oblong buildings, former military Headquarters: It is proposed to transform them into an Exhibition Centre for Children’s Books and Toys (a surface of 900x2 = 1,800 sq.m.).

The outdoor space, covering a 7,000 sq.m. area, between the two buildings and the Papadiamantopoulou-Kyprou main pedestrian zone, will accommodate permanent and periodic trade fairs of relevant themes.

7. Children’s Riding Centre In the third group of buildings, near the present Riding Centre installations, there is the old stables of the Cavalry complex. It includes four remarkable identical buildings having a surface of 300 sq.m. each and dating from the beginning of the century, together with a more recent building (dating from 1940) having a surface of 1,650 sq.m.: It is proposed to re-use the complex as a Children’s Riding Centre (a surface of approximately 2,850 sq.m.). Centered on children, lessons in riding with small horses (ponies) will be organised as well as a therapeutic riding for children with special needs (something which is already being done at present).

Specifically, it is proposed to repair the four old stables and to re-use them as: a) space for the Administration of the Activity; b) space for Locker-Rooms, WC and auxiliary facilities; c) Exercising space for people with special needs; d) space for Offices, Shops for rental and sale of riding articles. Also, at the outdoor space, an enclosed area for the movement of horses is formed, at an area of approximately 1,500 sq.m.

The buildings of this unity are complemented by a two-storeyed particularly remarkable building of the Infantry Regiment Headquarters which is identical to that of the Riding Centre: It is proposed to repair it and to land-plan a cafe- refreshment hall on the ground floor and a restaurant on the first floor (a surface of 450x2 = 900 sq.m.).

8. Riding School The present area of the Riding Centre is preserved and its use is upgraded until the year 2004; the only changes will be to move sections of its fencing, so that the circulation in the Park around this area can be more smooth: It is proposed to transform the Riding Centre facilities into a Riding School (having an overall surface of buildings of approximately 5,000 sq.m.) after the holding of the Olympic Games and after the Riding Centre has been transferred to the Markopoulo Sports Centre.

Regarding the building of the Automobile Pool Headquarters, an area of 450x2 = 900 sq.m., which is at present housing the administration services of the Riding Centre: It is proposed to limit them on the first floor and, at the ground floor, to land-plan a refreshment hall which will also be open to those visiting the Park.

9. Sports Parks We call Sports Park an entirety of outdoor sports activities which are of a mild character and small scale, take place within spaces of green and are intended for the broad public and for various age groups.

At present, there are four sports complexes in the Design Area: one belonging to the Municipality of Athens, one belonging to the Municipality of Papagou and two belonging to the Municipality of Zographou. Also, there are three football grounds and three closed gymnasia. These sports complexes have facilities which correspond to the idea of Sports Parks which is favoured by the proposal. It is proposed to re- organise them in order to be organically linked to the structure of the Park, and to expand them, as the case may be, with local scale activities.

The football grounds which the Municipality of Athens (Youth and Sports Organisation) is planning to establish south of the bed of Ilissos, towards Balodimou street, comes into contradiction with the proposal to enhance its bed and to link the Park with Hymettus. For this reason it is proposed that it should not be constructed. Rather, it is proposed to re-organise the existing sports poles. Specifically:

9a. Sports Park of the Municipality of Athens7 In this complex it is scheduled to hold the modern pentathlon of the 2004 Olympic Games. In order to cover the increased needs in tiers, their extension is planned by means of a prefabricated construction which, according to the General Secretariat of Athletics, will be removed after the end of the games. Also, it is planned to set up a course for a cross-country run, around the installations.

The above interventions are compatible with the idea of the Sports Park to the extent that they are temporary. Extensions of the existing buildings or land-plannings of other roofed activities are not compatible.

9b. Sports Park of Zographou I8

In the area, which is part of the old Varyti camp, there is now a number of military constructions (3,600 sq.m.) of no particular value: It is proposed to demolish them and to render the area to green, with the following exceptions: a small section should be renovated in order to house auxiliary activities of the sports grounds (approximately 400 sq.m.), while the two-storeyed building of the Heavy Artillery Headquarters (150x2 = 300 sq.m.) should be repaired and the first floor should be shaped into spaces housing the sports associations of the area, and the ground floor into a refreshment hall. Moreover, it is proposed to expand the facilities of the Sports Park with four small ball grounds, whereas it is not proposed to extend the tiers in the existing grounds.

7 It is situated at Kokkinopoulou street and includes a swimming pool of Olympic diamensions, a diving pool, and corresponding auxiliary areas, a closed gymnasium, two basketball courts and two tennis courts. 8It is situated at G. Papandreou street and it includes a football ground without any tiers, a closed gymnasium (870 sq.m.), two tennis courts and one basketball court.

9c. Sports Park of Papagou9 In this complex it is planned to construct a Youth Centre. It is proposed to expand only the sports facilities with four small ball grounds and to provide for covering the auxiliary facilities in the building under construction.

10. Rythmos Refreshment Pavilion The existing Rythmos Refreshment Pavilion is incorporated in the activities of the Park.

STAGE TWO: target year 2010

11. Exhibition and Congress Centre in the building of the Gendarmerie School At present, the building of the Gendarmerie School houses the Officers School of the Greek Police. The future plans of the Ministry of Public Order include the removal of the School and the installation of a Museum of the Greek Police in it. However, this use is not consistent either with the size or the important position of the building on one of the major axes of the capital: It is proposed to re-use the building as an Exhibition-Congress Centre, with a possibility to shape its inner courtyard into an outdoor area for periodic exhibitions and events (a surface of approximately 3,000x2 = 6,000 sq.m.).

12. Museum and Library for Audio-Visual Media and School of Cinematography The Greek Radio and Television S.A. plans, in the long run, to give up the buildings at the intersection of Katekhaki and Messoghion avenues which it is using at present, and to establish there (in co-operation with other public and private bodies) a National Library of Audio-Visual Archives. This activity is compatible with the general character of the Park and it is proposed that it should be accompanied by relevant uses which will create a living pole of culture and education in the Metropolitan Park area. From a surface of 9,200 sq.m. which is used at present, 5,800 sq.m. will be renovated and the remaining will be demolished.

It is proposed to establish a School of Cinametography in the existing infrastructures of the Greek Radio Television as is, for example, the studio under construction. Also, it is proposed to establish a Museum for Greek Posters of Cinema Facades. Also, within the high quality space of green existing in the complex, a series of seasonal outdoor activities, e.g. screenings of pictures from archives, will attract broader groups of visitors and will extend the visiting to the Park for a longer period.

13. National Centre of Archives and Publications In the area of the present Zorba camp, there is a large number of buildings, dating from different periods. In the central area, there is a rigid order of 12 identical two- storeyed buildings, in good condition, which offer to the Park large expanses for re- use: It is proposed to land-plan the National Centre of Archives and Publications (a surface of approximately 12,000 sq.m.). The core of such an activity could be

9 It is situated at Nevrokopiou street and it includes a track, a closed gymnasium, two tennis courts and two basketball courts.

20 based on a number of archives which will be kept in the place. In its full development, this Centre will constitute the nodal point of an electronic network for exchanging information, linked with all those public and private bodies who keep and process archive material. Also, the direct connection of the subject with the publishing activities allows the seasonal use of the outdoor or of some closed spaces for exhibitions of books and publications, in co-operation with publishing houses, the National Book Centre etc.

14. Cultural Centre of the Municipality of Zographou It concerns a unity of buildings of the Zorba camp, along Megalou Alexandrou street: It is proposed to house cultural activities of the Municipality of Zographou (a surface of approximately 2,000 sq.m.).

15. Cultural Centre of the Municipality of Papagou In the space of Fakinou camp, there is a large number of buildings from different periods (dating from 1920 until now) and of different quality of construction. In accordance with the evaluation of the buildings based on photographic material, it was estimated that the constructions to be re-used offer approximately 12,500 sq.m.: It is proposed to establish a Cultural Centre for the Municipality of Papagou in buildings having a surface of approximately 7,500 sq.m. and to demolish the remaining ones. The position of the complex, at the end of the Metropolitan Park and away from the trans-local axes of access, has led to the proposal to use the complex primarily in order to cover cultural requirements of the Municipality of Papagou.

Independent functions which are maintained within the Central Core

16. Medical Library: Its outdoor space is incorporated in the Central Core of the Park and a square is formed between the building and the main pedestrian zone of the Park. The Library preserves its independent function but any extension is prohibited: It is proposed to integrate this activity which is compatible with the character of the Park (a surface of approximately 2,400 sq.m.).

17. Ministry of Justice: Its function is maintained, whilst its outdoor space is incorporated into the Central Core of the Park. Any extension of the building is prohibited.

Additional activities which are land-planned or strengthened in the Control Zone

18. Welfare and Social Support Centre: It concerns the old complex of the former Females’ Reformatory of the Ministry of Justice situated on an area belonging to Sotiria hospital, at Yghia street, next to the National Centre of Immediate Aid, at the boundaries of the municipalities of Papagou, Athens and Cholargos: It is proposed to re-use the complex and to land-plan in it an Inter-Municipal Councelling Centre (a surface of approximately 2,700 sq.m.)

19. Sotiria hospital Museum: The Museum on the History of the Complex which is planned to be established by the Sotiria hospital, in the Kyriazidio ward (1907, architect A. Balanos) which is shut at present, is incorporated in the general

21 principles for the organisation of the Park and a process of connection with its other spaces is planned.

20. Cinema-Theatre Hall of Sotiria hospital: It was constructed in 1957, it was renovated in 1980 and it is now used also as a teaching hall: It is proposed to incorporate the existing function in the activities of the Park and a process of connection with the Central Core is planned.

21. Museum of Paediatrics: The Museum of Paediatrics which is planned to be established by the Aghia Sophia hospital, is incorporated in the general principles for the organisation of the Metropolitan Park. The formation of an inner entrance from the hospital towards the Museum of Children’s Toys unifies the two activities and allows the co-operation and correlation of the exhibition material. The Museum will be housed in the complex of the auxiliary buildings which date from between 1896 and 1900.

22. Sports Park of Papagou II: It concerns the sports grounds of the Municipality of Papagou, between Kyprou and Yghias streets: It is proposed to improve them and to prohibit any other extensions (either tiers or installations).

23, 24. Sports Park of Zographou II : It concerns the sports grounds of the Municipality of Zographou, on both sides of Kokkinopoulou street, west of the Technical University Campus and the Zorba Camp; it is proposed primarily to improve their connection with the Design Area.

25. Social Centre of Zografou : It concerns an activity already scheduled by the Municipality of Zographou, at Kalavryton street.

CHAPTER 4: CIRCULATION AND PARKING IN THE PARK

4.1. PRINCIPLES FOR THE ORGANISATION OF CIRCULATION

The most basic principle for organising the circulation in the Metropolitan Park is to secure a network as variegated and extensive as possible for the safe movement of pedestrians and bicycles primarily in its interior but also in the direct urban perimetric zone. The basic aim is to deter any entry and performance of through movements in the Park for private cars, as well as to restrict their access upto the perimetric parking areas only. The message sent from the organisation of circulation in the Park is: the Park is open more willingly and more easily to pedestrians, cyclists and users of public transport than to private cars.

The body of the inner movements consists in the two basic transverse axes for the movement of pedestrians and bicycles; these allow an understanding of the inner organisation of the Park, enhance its core and constitute the frame for a stroll at every part of it as well as for access to every partial use.

Connections for the rehabilitation of the unity of the Park

For the rehabilitation of the unity of the Park on both sides of Katekhaki avenue, the following are proposed:

• The formation of a wide underground passage (60m wide), approximately at the point of the present entrance, of the Varyti Camp on the one side and of the Nursery-Garden of the Municipality of Athens on the other side; • Until the materialisation of the aforementioned work, it is proposed to construct a light footbridge, at approximately the same point, which will constitute a landmark for the Park during the materialisation of Stage One of the works; • An underground passage along the main branch of Ilissos (approximately 40m. wide); • A direct establishment of an underground passage at the intersection with Messoghion, in order to secure here a main point of entrance into the Park as well as for pedestrians from Katekhaki metro station to have access to the Park and further on to the new “Politia” shopping centre at Messoghion avenue. • A new level passage (with traffic lights) at the common point of entrance of the Ministry of Public Order, the National Information Service and the Military Hospitals, which will substitute for the three level crossings that are in existence at present at the section of Katekhaki avenue, between Messoghion and Pindou street. Moreover, the level crossing with traffic lights at the intersection with Messoghion will be maintained and so will the level crossing with traffic lights (where time for a green pedestrian light is provided for) at the intersection with Pindou and Kokkinopoulou streets.

23 For the rehabilitation of the unity of the Park on both sides of Kokkinopoulou street, it is proposed to construct an elevated level crossing, at the level of the entrances to the Sports Centre of the Municipality of Athens and to the Technical University Campus. This proposal is incorporated in a more general proposal for the reshaping of the Kokkinopoulou street axis, with an lowering of speeds and a rendering of more space to pedestrians and cyclists; in this framework, it is proposed to widen the pavements, to have plantings and to mark out a cyclists lane on the one side.

In order to connect the Park with the densely built areas of Ambelokipi, and always in view of the great circulation of pedestrians which will be caused by the operation of the new “Politia” shopping centre, it is proposed to construct a footbridge at Messoghion avenue, at the point of the Gendarmerie School.

Accesses to the Park

The entirety of the network in the interior of the Park is rendered to the pedestrians and the bicycles; a controlled circulation of service vehicles is allowed and, in a restricted part, of small public transport buses. Any private cars can use only perimetric sections of the network for any access to the existing and proposed parking spaces.

Regarding access to the various functions of the Park through the Means of Public Transport, it is proposed to have two bus lines which connect the Park with Katekhaki and Alexandras metro stations. For access by private car, the proposed parking spaces are land-planned at the perimeter of the Park, next to its main entrances. They have small upto medium capacity, with the exception of the proposed large underground parking space behind the Children’s Hospitals (530 places) and that between the Gendarmerie School and the Ministry of Justice (260 places).

Exclusion of Pentelis street as a road axis

In the framework of the overall organisation for the circulation in the Park and in the greater area, it is proposed that the Pentelis street should not be materialised as a road axis and that it should be incorporated as a pedestrian zone in the frame of the area’s main pedestrian axes. The perspective of such a materialisation would undoubtedly undermine the functioning of a Park with spaces of green, culture and recreation, by adding up one more axis of trans-local and through traffic, when the basic principle is to reduce the effects caused by those which are already in existence. Moreover, its opening up would destroy one of the most important wooded parts of the Park.

But also from the standpoint of circulation, Pentelis street is considered purposeless, as it is an axis parallel and in an almost intermediate distance between Messoghion Avenue and Pindou street, and it will take on a part of the work of other roads which are in existence but do not function satisfactorily due to malfunctions of the broader network. However, the construction of new axes is not a solution, since they also soon descend to the same problematic level of functioning as the older ones. In addition, the new axis will have a blind end at Katekhaki avenue, and thus will burden it with

24 one more traffic lights point, something which does not suit either the circulation capacity which Katekhaki avenue should have after the construction of the Hymettus circular road or with the plans for constructing a multi-level junction at Katekhaki- Kokkinopoulou/Pindou streets.

4.2. NETWORK FOR THE CIRCULATION OF PEDESTRIANS AND BICYCLES

A basic principle of the planning regarding the network for the circulation of pedestrians and bicycles in the Park, is to secure a pleasant and comfortable access to all possible destinations.

Network for the circulation of pedestrians: it is formed by the two main transverse axes of urban character and by the path on the riparian belt of Ilissos. Connective branches are articulated in this network; these also expand in the interior of the neighbouring road network in the form of pedestrian zones, roads of mild traffic or comfortable pavements. On the two basic axes for the circulation of pedestrians it is allowed, at the width available each time, a “discreet co-existence” of pedestrians with the circulation of bicycles and service vehicles.

The basic axes are articulated with two secondary networks for the circulation of pedestrians, having a road width from 4 upto 8m., as the case may be, and also with footpaths. Also, behind the military hospitals, at the boundary of Sotiria hospital, a zone is shaped into an important pedestrian zone, aiming at connecting directly the Katekhaki metro station with the guarded entrance of the Park there. Finally, it is proposed to reshape the existing pavements of the perimetric road network, so that they have an uninterrupted minimum width for pedestrians isolated from the road surface with a high linear planting.

Network for the circulation of bicycles: It is planned to form a separate cyclists lane along the two main axes, Kokkinopoulou street, the perimetric ring of the Technical University Campus and the pedestrian zone which is being formed behind the military hospitals. In the remaining interior network of the Park bicycles will move freely, whereas with regard to those who continue outside the limits of the Park, it is up to the particular circulation planning of the neighbouring Municipalities to secure safe routes in the interior of their tissue.

4.3. NETWORK FOR PUBLIC TRANSPORT AND CIRCULATION OF SERVICE VEHICLES

New circulation lines: Access to the perimeter of the Park through buses but also by means of the new metro line which will end at the Pentagon is secured to a great extent. However, in order to strengthen the access potentialities, it is proposed to operate two new small-route bus lines; these will serve those functions which are more attractive regarding movements and will be articulated with the metro which will be the major means of service for the visitors to the Park.

25 • Line No. 1. Katekhaki – Park – Technical University Campus – University Campus – Katekhaki: The Line No. 1 is articulated with the Metro and serves mainly in connecting it with the Technical University Campus and the University Campus as well as the Zographou Cemetery. Also, through the proposed corridor at Katekhaki avenue, some people who now use their private cars will be able to visit the Park by means of the bus line. • Line No. 2. Park – Children’s Hospitals – Alexandras – Music Mansion – Park: The terminal of the line will be within the Park, at the area of the Rythmos Refreshment Pavilion. It follows a circular route which connects the Park, the Children’s hospitals, the Alexandras metro station and the Music Mansion metro station, while at the same time it serves a host of trans-local uses, mainly through their articulation with the Alexandras and Music Mansion metro stations, but also through their access to the Park.

Network for the circulation of service vehicles: The general principle for the circulation of service vehicles (ambulances, garbage trucks, fire brigade vehicles, nursery-garden vehicles etc.) is that they circulate under control in the Central Core of the Park, along the two main axes where a special formation is planned for the vehicles’ passing through. It is possible to also pass through along the other pedestrian zones. The access to particular points is possible, where this is allowed by the formations, with cul-de-sac branches. The Park’s service vehicles have access through all the guarded entrances and, in case of emergency, they can even pass through spaces which are protected by functional entrances but do not serve the independent uses of the Control Zone.

4.4. PARKING SPACES FOR PRIVATE CARS AND DESCRIPTION OF THEIR ROAD ACCESSES

A basic principle in the planning of the Park is to completely prohibit the circulation of private cars in its Central Core and to control, with partial regulations, their access and parking in the Control Zone. It is considered that such a parking policy in a place like this is equivalent to a policy in favour of the Means of Public Transport, a policy which corresponds to the philosophy of the entire proposal.

Two underground parking spaces are proposed in the Central Core

• An underground parking space behind the Children’s hospitals (530 places): It is planned to serve the increased needs of the Children’s hospitals as well as of those visiting the Park. It is estimated that the hospitals together need 180 parking places, plus 6 places for large vehicles. Therefore, the visitors to the Park will be given 300-350 private car places. • An underground parking space in the area between the Gendarmerie School and the Ministry of Justice (260 places): It is proposed that this should be given jointly and equally to the employees of the Ministry and to the employees and visitors of the proposed Congress and Exhibition Centre in the Gendarmerie School as well as to visitors to the Park in general. The visitors to the Park will be given 130 private car places.

26 Nine outdoor parking spaces are proposed in the Central Core

• An outdoor parking space next to the entrance at Trikalon street (D3) (40 places); • An outdoor parking space next to the entrance at G. Papandreou street (E6) (60 places); • An outdoor parking space next to the west main entrance at Katekhaki avenue (E1) (35 private car places and 6 coach places); • An outdoor parking space next to the east main entrance at Katekhaki avenue (E2) (35 private care places and 6 coach places); • An outdoor parking space for service vehicles of the Central Core of the Park (E2) (10 places); • An outdoor parking space next to the entrance at Nevrokopiou street (D7) (50 places); • Two outdoor parking spaces next to the entrance of the Central Core of the Park at Kokkinopoulou street (E7) (100 + 80 private car places and 7 coach places); • An outdoor parking space next to the entrance at Ellispontou street (D6) (50 places).

Therefore, for the service of the Central Core of the Park there will be (target year 2010): • 430-480 underground parking places; • 450 outdoor parking places; • 19 parking places for coaches; • 10 parking places for service vehicles.

Parking in the Control Zone: In relation to the parking areas which are existing or planned by other bodies and which will serve the Control Zone of the Park, it is proposed to partially re-arrange the parking spaces depending on the case, as a directive to the relevant bodies.

4.5. AN ANALYSIS OF THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE FUNCTIONS OF THE PARK IN PARKING SPACES – SPACES WHICH WILL EVENTUALLY BE AVAILABLE

Following an analysis of the requirements of the uses in parking spaces, per long-term phases, the following requirements in parking places arise: STAGE ONE: Target Year 2004: 1,100-1,200 private car places and 5 coach places. STAGE TWO: Target Year 2010: 450-500 private car places and 5 coach places.

On the basis of the Presidential Decree 230 of 1993, the final sum in parking requirements regarding the First and Second Stage of completion of the Metropolitan Park at Goudi-Ilissos, is: 1,550-1,700 private car places and 10 coach places

Following the elaboration during the stage of natural planning, the following parking spaces are finally proposed: STAGE ONE: Target Year 2004: 730 private car places and 19 coach places. STAGE TWO: Target Year 2010: 150 private car places.

The parking spaces which will eventually be available for visitors to the Park amount to: approximately 900-950 parking places for private cars, 20 parking places for coaches, and 10 parking places for service vehicles. Namely, a 60% approximately of those formally required.

CHAPTER 5: ORGANISATION OF THE SPACES OF GREEN

5.1. PRINCIPLES FOR THE ORGANISATION OF GREEN

The presence of high green is the most important factor for the general organisation of the Park, as it contributes in determining two large distinct unities: the areas where the natural element predominates and those where the other functions emerge as predominant. In this sense, the overall organisation of green was based in principle upon the choices and the mapping out of high green.

The primary choice is the creation of a high ecological quality Park in direct connection with the main natural elements in the Design Area, Ilissos and Hymettus. For this reason, the main orientation of the plant technical interventions should be the regeneration of the stream of Ilissos all along its uncovered section upto the headwaters as well as the regeneration of the foot of Hymettus, on the basis of ecological criteria.

In the Central Core of the Park, the mapping out of unities of green has followed the following principles:

• Formation of unities of high green which will be distinct and will have a significant size; these will acquire future features of an artificial forest and thus will change the proportions of high-low green in the greater area. • Formation of a ring of high and dense green, so that the natural element will predominate from all views of the core of the Park. • Securing a view of Hymettus from selected points, either through unities of high green, or as a background to activities or to remarkable buildings. • Cutting off by means of high green of all those functions which are not incorporated in the Core of the Park, either when the built volume is considered to downgrade the general aesthetics of the Park, or when it is imperative to isolate the functions themselves. • Possibility to have visual communication between the important functions of the Park, possibility to have a timely perception of the functions from the main axes of pedestrian walks, possibility to select a direction. • Participation of green in the composition and in the signalling of functions (emphasising of the main walks, grading of accesses, diferrentiating of the areas for stoppages from the areas for circulation, differentiating of functions etc.). • Increase in the functionality of green (shading, sunny spaces, protection against noise and pollution, formation of a microclimate) as the case may be, by means of selecting the species as well as through the orientation given by the plant technical regulations. • Securing the multiformity of the landscape and forming a special aesthetic result, when dealing in a refined manner with the specific features of any particular species in their participation in the overall synthesis.

5.2. THE GENERAL CHARACTER OF THE PLANTINGS

The proposal regarding the general principles of the new regulations of planting was structured having as its criteria the selection of forestry species according to the ecological environment of the greater area, the selection of species according to their functional properties, their aesthetic features, the successful linking of new and existing plantings and, finally, the regeneration and making healthy of the existing plantings. In this sense, the elaboration of a plant technical design is considered necessary, in the framework of the implementation designs of the Park.

The general selection regarding the new regulations for high and dense green are the broadleaved trees in mixed clusters of different species, not excluding the participation of coniferous trees as the case may be. In addition to the areas of high and dense green, trees are used also in the cases of “open” spaces, either individually or in clusters, but also in special formations like rows of trees, squares – areas for stoppages or areas surrounding the buildings. The shrubs can be planted individually or in groups; they can be cultivated together with other arborescent, herbaceous or flowering plants; they can form frames, fences and windbreaks. They can also constitute independent unities in areas of low green, thus breaking the feeling of a bare landscape. Finally, in the open expanses, an extremely important part is played by the existence of a natural grass with the participation of self-sown species of Attica’s low flora.

5.3. PARTIAL UNITIES – CHARACTER – SPECIES

Artificial unities of coniferous plants of a forest character, at the level of Wild Olive-Bulrush, where the Aleppo pine predominates.

• Existing healthy unities of high green of a forest character, which are preserved as they are through interventions for improvements and forestry actions. • Existing unities of high green in the stage of small boles, which are regenerated drastically with a strengthening of the presence of broadleaved trees which will replace a large number of coniferous units. • Proposed new unities of high green which will function as a desirable “barrier”, either between the various uses or opposite the large avenues surrounding the Park. In these cases, aesthetically better results are achieved through the mixed clusters of coniferous trees and selected evergreen shrubs.

New unities having a Mediterranean biotopes character, where the broadleaved species predominate.

• New unites of high green: it is proposed that they are made up mainly of deciduous broadleaved trees, in clusters having an average visual penetrability, which do not obstruct the mild passing through of pedestrians; also, units of a forest character which occupy larger areas and are suitable for the formation of artificial areas for forest recreation. • New units of low green: these units cover the orientation requirements towards the different uses as they assist in perceiving the magnitude and the scale of the area;

30 they organise a perfect aesthetic effect through the succession of different forms while, at the same time, they also play functional roles. It is proposed to cover them in their larger part with a combination of natural grass and shrubs, at a 40%- 60% proportion, so that the management requirements are reduced.

Special regulations on green in the framework of architectural synthesis (walks, areas for stoppages, areas surrounding buildings and functions)

The special regulations on green are going to encompass the corresponding architectural regulations with a double aim: 1) to signal functions, to grade accesses, to differentiate areas for stoppages and circulation, to morphologically complete the areas surrounding functions and buildings; 2) to play a functional role through the potentialities for shading, sunny spaces, protection against noise and pollution, formation of a microclimate.

The formations having a surrounding area character are mainly of low green, but they include areas with a formed stone-paved ground and special regulations on plantings.

Special formations of green along the great road axes surrounding the Park

In addition to the plant technical interventions pertaining to the Core and the Control Zone of the Park, it is considered advisable to strengthen the wayside vegetation along the paths of access, on the traffic islands of the roads, but primarily on the widened pavements along the avenues of high circulation which surround the Park. The aim is to form a (visual-audio) barrier for the protection of the Park from the circulation; this is materialised by means of rows of trees and hedgerows on a belt having approximately 1m. width which will consist of species resistant to atmospheric pollution and to dust.

Regeneration of natural elements in the Design Area

• Riparian belt of Ilissos: The plant technical regeneration along the bed of Ilissos consists in removing any foreign species, in periodically cleaning the weeds on the slopes and on the bed so that the more hydrophilous plants will be strengthened, and in emphasising the vegetation with species which are characteristic of the stream formations.

At the area of the confluence of the two branches of the stream, it is proposed to regenerate the existing plantation of young pines, while on the opposite bank, towards the side of the former Varyti camp, it is considered advisable to remove the young self-sown eucalyptus trees, so that, on the one hand there will be a necessary vital space for the development of the riparious vegetation, on the other hand such densities will not be formed as would prevent to view the stream. On the contrary, a thickening of the vegetation should be pursued at the section opposite Katekhaki avenue. It is considered necessary that the interventions on the riparian belt should not be restricted strictly within the limits of the Park, but be effected in parallel with corresponding architectures all along the stream, always remaining under a stable and uniform management.

• Foot of Hymettus:The foot of Hymettus which penetrates the Design Area are the only unities which at present have natural vegetation shapings. It is proposed to preserve the character of these areas by means of strengthening the self-sown (primarily arborescent) vegetation, without any additions of foreign species.

As a first action towards securing an ecological continuity with Hymettus, it is considered advisable to create a “green ring”, the starting point of which will be at the area south-east of Papagou and its end at the natural expanses around the Monastery of Aghios Ioannis Theologos. At a second level, it is considered advisable to have a process of careful reforestations and management of the existing natural spaces of Hymettus, so that the natural potentialities of the ecosystem can be reactivated.

CHAPTER 6: ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS FROM EXISTING AND PROPOSED ACTIVITIES

The establishment of an organised and large scale Park will have in principle positive environmental effects on the specific area and on the greater urban area. The most important of these effects are:

• An increase in vegetation will not offer a considerable increase in the quantity of oxygen as a percentage; however, at the city level, it will improve significantly the quality of air in the Greater Design Area. • An increase in vegetation and an improvement of the natural communication with the natural space of Hymettus will have a positive impact also on: the restraint of atmospheric pollution (primarily of dust), the reduction of noise and, above all, the improvement of the microclimate within the Park and in the directly neighbouring densely populated areas. • The partial restoration of the natural topography in the area will produce very important positive effects, primarily through the enhancement of the stream of Ilissos and its tributaries and of all those other elements which are connectd with the river. There should be a possibility of access to selected points of the bed as well as a possibility to hike all along the stream. In parallel, access to Hymettus should also be restored through the river in ways which will overcome the obstacle caused by the new circular road. • A strengthening of the water flow of Ilissos with rainwater and liquid waste after they have been carefully purified, will have a positive effect. Also, the planning of small ponds at certain points on the river-bed will give a remarkable element to the landscape. • Most of the activities which are planned to develop in the Park will not cause a considerable burden to the environment, particularly since private cars will stop at the entrances of the Park. Of course, it is necessary to organise the management of the solid rubbish well and to sensitise visitors in this relation. However, intense sports activities within the Park carry dangers of negative environmental effects and for this reason, it is advisable to avoid them. • A very important negative effect on the environment of the Park is caused by the existence of Katekhaki avenue, and for this reason it is necessary to study ways in which to reduce the negative effects, e.g. to install noise barriers and natural barriers with vegetation. It is also necessary to consider a long-term possibility to lower its level. • Finally, a possible negative effect which will possibly arise during the function of the Park, will be its downgrading and demerit as a result of its inefficient management. Additional undesirable activities which will potentially emerge in time, will create all sorts of solid rubbish, aesthetic pollution and other deformations in the area. Such a development will seriously downgrade the natural and the social environment of the Park. For this reason, it is required to enclose it, to control entrances and to guard it on a 24-hour basis, and also to have a full and stable management-maintenance in all areas.

CHAPTER 7: INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK PROPOSED

7.1. GUIDELINES REGARDING THE INSTITUTING OF THE PROJECT

The scope of this research project is at the level of drawing up a Master Plan at a scale between 1:10,000 and 1:2,000. Thus, whichever proposals are eventually acceptable, they should be instituted by law. The body competent to institute them is the Directorate of Urban-Planning of the Ministry of Environment, Land-Planning and Public Works, in the cases which pertain to inclusion of the area in the plan through the Urban-Planning Design for Expansion or Revision (or approval of the Local Street-Plan) or when the building blocks are within the plan and along the basic road network; whereas, regarding those building blocks which are outside the basic road network, the procedure for their being instituted lies with the Prefecture of Athens.

After completion of the procedure of their being instituted, an Elaboration Design (Final Design and Implementation Design) is required to be drawn up by the Directorate for Special Works for the Upgrading of Areas (EEAP) of the Ministry of Environment, Land-Planning and Public Works or by private parties, or by the EEAP Directorate and private parties jointly in order to save time.

Also, it is possible to forward these designs according to priority in a short period of time. However, when taking into account that, in practice, it is difficult to attain this, the solution considered to be rather more feasible is: to take forward a section of the Formation Design as an exception without previously having correspondingly instituted the uses, terms and building restrictions planned in the design.

The particular problem arising out of the institution of the proposals contained in the research project is centered mainly at the time-consuming procedures, but also on the fact that the Athens Organisation is not competent to approve the proposals of the research project. On this matter, it seems in principle that the use of clause 99 of Act 1892 pertaining to the declaration of the area as a Controlled Development Zone (ZEA) solves some of the arising problems, as it makes possible a unified planning in the specific area.

In relation to the competence of the bodies to institute the proposals outlined, it has been established that, finally, all the building blocks included there are adjacent to the basic road network. Therefore, the competent bodies for instituting the proposals are the Ministry of Environment, Land-Planning and Public Works and the Prefecture of Athens. Since it is not expected to have proposals pertaining to the revision of areas within the plan of the Municipalities of Papagou, Zographou and Neo Psychico, then the competent body left is the Ministry of Environment, Land-Planning and Public Works.

7.2. PROPOSED ARRANGEMENTS REGARDING THE CENTRAL CORE OF THE PARK

Land uses

• It is proposed to incorporate into the City Plan and to designate the enclosed section of the Central Core of the Park as an Area of Green, in accordance with clause 9 of Act 166/87 “regarding land uses” which allows the installation of refreshment pavilions, sports grounds, cultural activities and areas for meetings of the public within the spaces of green. Specifically with regard to the Metropolitan Park, the installation of activities is effected at specific locations as these are specified in the Master Plan and any installations at any different points are prohibited.

• Regarding that section of the Central Core which will not be enclosed (forest and grassland expanse of the Officers’ Independent Construction Organisation next to Katekhaki avenue): it is proposed that it should remain outside the Plan and that the First Belt for the Protection of Hymettus should be extended up to Pindou street.

Protection of the spaces of green

• For the protection of the two branches of Ilissos, it is proposed to designate a zone for the absolute protection of the streams. This zone will include all expanses which are at a distance of 50 metres on both sides of the axis of the stream bed. The zone is designated as a zone for absolute protection where only outdoor recreation is allowed and all building is prohibited. The existing constructions which are located at the boundaries of this zone and are re-used for the activities of the Park, are exempt and will not be demolished. • Moreover, it is proposed to designate the pinewood, from the Gendarmerie Grove upto the Greek Radio Television installations at Katekhaki avenue, as a Landscape of Special Natural Beauty.

Buildings Stock

Within the limits of the Central Core of the Park, there are four categories of buildings:

• The historical buildings of the Military Town of Goudi; it is proposed that they should be designated as listed buildings, as well as the building of the Gendarmerie School. No annexes are allowed by way of extension or elevation to these buildings, the overall surface of which is approximately 30,000 sq.m., and whichever necessary internal dispositions should respect the character of the military structures. • Modern buildings which remain and are re-used. These are military buildings and have an overall surface of 30,000 sq.m.; they accommodate sports activities for the adjacent Municipalities and, even though they are not listed buildings with

35 regard to their morphological characteristics or their direct historical value, they constitute a serious building stock which is re-used. No annexes are allowed by way of extension or elevation. • Buildings which are demolished. These are either structures of makeshift construction or buildings at locations which obstruct access to the Park, or even structures in areas of the Park where a densely built almost urban image is created; their overall surface is approximately 15,000 sq.m. • New buildings. These are the building of the Greenhouse which has an area of approximately 2,000 sq.m. and the pavilions at the entrances. No construction of any other new buildings is allowed.

Land acquisition and street-planning

The area of the Central Core, having a surface of approximately 362.5 acres, is devolved to the Park Management Body in the following ways:

• Granting of land. It comes from the Ministry of National Defence, the Land Public Corporation, the Greek Radio Television, the Ministry of Culture and the Municipalities of Zographou, Athens and Papagou. • Expropriation or exchange. It pertains to a forest and grassland expanse of 66.5 acres owned by the Officers’ Independent Construction Organisation. • Expropriation. It pertains to an expanse of 570-600 sq.m. owned by the petrol station at Messoghion avenue. • Annulment of Street-Planning. Additional land is acquired by means of annulling a number of streets which had been instituted in Local Street-Plans but had not been materialised, and incorporating them in the Central Core of the Park.

7.3. PROPOSED ARRANGEMENTS REGARDING THE PARK CONTROL ZONE

A framework for control and protection is proposed regarding the Park Control Zone; as in the case of the Central Core, this concerns the protection and development of spaces of green and the protection of listed buildings. In addition to these, some further factors are defined which are controlled; such factors are: exploitation of land, designation of areas for building and, finally, annulment of existing street-planning.

Protection and development of the spaces of green

The proposed framework of control includes institutional arrangements, the more important of which are: the designation of the Sotiria pinewood as a landscape of special natural beauty; the designation of a 30m. wide zone for landscape regeneration; the designation of a zone of absolute protection covering a span of 50m. from the axis of the bed of Ilissos etc.

36 Listed buildings

In the Park Control Zone, there are large unities of buildings which are of important value: the buildings of Sotiria hospital; the pavilions of Aghia Sophia Children’s hospital; and the early buildings of the Technical University Campus at Zographou. It is proposed that certain buildings should be designated as listed buildings and should have potentialities for annexes only by way of extension and not by way of elevation. These annexes should not alter the form of the listed structure which should be clearly distinguished from the more recent annexes.

Control of uses

In the proposed Park Control Zone, the uses already in existence concerning health- welfare, education, sports and general residence are maintained at the same levels; the uses concerning administration are reduced; the specific uses (camps) are eliminated; and the spaces of green are increased.

As a whole, the spaces of green are increased from 123,000 sq.m. which are instituted at present to 167,000 sq.m., due to the addition of an expanse of approximately 19,000 sq.m. belonging to the Plessa camp as well as a section of approximately 25,000 sq.m. belonging to the site of the Ministry of Transport.

Control of exploitation of land

In addition to the control of uses of land, terms and restrictions regarding building are set out in the Control Zone, so as to secure a building potential which will not come into conflict with the character of the Park, but which will also take into account the needs of the public and of the private bodies functioning in it. Thus, Health, Education and Administration have been dealt with differently. The common denominator in the proposals was a drastic reduction of exploitation in the Control Zone, through a reduction of the Co-efficients of Building depending on each use. Analytically, per unity of functions, the proposals are as follows:

Health-Welfare: The proposed reduction in the Co-efficients reduces the maximum exploitation of land at 330,000-420,000 sq.m. regarding the whole of Health-Welfare; namely, it reduces the exploitation of land by 70%-62% and annuls the construction of 700,000 sq.m. of structures.

Education: It is proposed that the primary and secondary education should maintain the building terms at the present levels. Its sites are small and the needs of the adjacent Municipalities concerning spaces for education are increased. On the contrary, with regard to higher education, it is proposed that the Zographou Technical University Campus should reduce the Co-efficient of Building from 0.45 which is today to a level of 0.2-0.3; that the expanse of the former Zorba camp which belongs also to the National Technical University of Athens should not be built; and that the building terms regarding the Medical School should remain as they are.

37 Administration: A new multi-storeyed building for the Ministry of Transport has already been constructed on its own space. It is proposed to form a new building block which will include only the Ministry, and to set the Co-efficient of Building at such a level as to describe the construction of the building materialised until now and not to permit any future constructions.

New and annulled street-plans

At the limits of the Control Zone, it is proposed to effect a series of institutional interventions: annul the opening up of roads (e.g. Pentelis avenue etc.); pedestrialise sections of roads; complete the opening up of roads (e.g. Levadias street etc.); complete the expropriation procedures; effect new opening up (e.g. between Papadiamantopou and G. Papandreou streets etc.); effect segmentation of building blocks.

7.4. PROPOSED ARRANGEMENTS REGARDING THE GREATER DESIGN AREA

In the Greater Design Area and specifically in the area of the Municipality of Papagou, a series of arrangements are proposed which are codified as follows:

• Expansion of Belt A for the Protection of Hymettus upto the limits of the city plan of the Municipality of Papagou, as far as Chatziconstanti street.

• Continuation of the zone for the protection of the stream of Ilissos, at the same 50m width on both sides of the axis of the bed, through the residential tissue of the Municipality of Papagou and upto the limit of the city plan, where it is proposed that Belt A for the Protection of Hymettus be extended. Wherever this Belt includes unbuilt spaces of building blocks, it is proposed that the unbuilt spaces should be unified and given over to public use.

7.5. CONTROL BETWEEN INSTITUTED AND PROPOSED USES OF LAND IN THE ENTIRETY OF THE METROPOLITAN PARK

The proposal for the organisation of the entire Metropolitan Park provides for an important increase in the spaces of communal green, at some parts of which it is planned to establish cultural and athletics facilities.

Spaces of green: The proposal distinguishes green into two categories as follows:

• Unmixed spaces of communal green; • Spaces of green where there will be activities of athletics, culture, recreation and areas for social gatherings.

As a whole, in accordance with the proposed distribution in the uses of land the area of the spaces of green is increased five times (229.2 Ha) in relation to the instituted situation at present (42 Ha).

38 Administration: With regard to the spaces provided for Administration, a serious reduction of 56% is planned in relation to the areas already instituted. Specifically, out of an overall expanse of 48.4 Ha to be used by the Administration, an area of 26 Ha remain as Administration space and the remaining is converted into spaces of green.

Athletics: A significant reduction is planned regarding the instituted pure athletics use in favour of mild athletics within spaces of green. Specifically, out of an area of 18.3 Ha for athletics use, only an area of 3 Ha remains for pure athletics use.

Health-Welfare: With regard to the Health sector, a slight reduction in the instituted use is planned, by a percentage of 8% approximately. Specifically, out of an area of approximately 80 Ha of instituted use for health – which incorporates also the university clinics – an area of approximately 74 Ha remains for this use.

Education: Regarding the use for education –the university clinics are not included in it – which constitutes one of the most important uses in the area of the Park and has a surface of approximately 102.5 Ha, no essential alteration is planned.

CHAPTER 8: STAGES IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE PARK

The organisation and programming of the works in stages allows for the completion in stages of entireties of uses and functions; thus, it generates a dynamism accelerating a procedure by which the area as a whole is released and is rendered to public use. At the same time, the resolution of specific problems is facilitated, for example, the removal of important intensive uses, the Zorba, Fakinou and Plessa camps. At the same time, the organisation of the project in stages will facilitate the finding of the financial resources necessary for the construction and completion of the project.

Regarding the creation of the Metropolitan Park at Goudi-Ilissos the overall intervention is organised in two stages:

• The first stage has a time scope for the year 2004. It includes most of the proposed interventions, except for those which are land-planned in the active camps (Plessa and Zorba camps and a section of Fakinou camp) and in the installations of the Greek Radio Television. It coincides with the completion of the works for the modern pentathlon, in view of the 2004 Olympic Games. • The second stage has a time scope for the year 2010. It integrates those sections of the Metropolitan Park which are excluded until the year 2004.

Special provision has been made so that both the Park and those activities which are excluded from Stage One will be able to function independently and will fully cover their functional needs.

8.1. STAGE ONE: TIME SCOPE – YEAR 2004

Regarding repairs of the buildings

Most of the Central Core of the Park will be materialised during Stage One of the works. Specifically, the complete system of the main axes of the Park is constructed, the listed buildings of the Military Town of Goudi are repaired and the major cultural uses are land-planned. Also, the existing sports facilities are re-organised or expanded.

During Stage One, the planting of the area is also completed, so that the objective regarding a Metropolitan Park of high ecological quality is materialised. During this stage, the existing cores of green are regenerated and new plantings are carried out.

During Stage One, the area of the Officers’ Independent Construction Organisation which is south of Pindou street and east of Katekhaki avenue is given over to the Park; it is incorporated into the Park as a non-enclosed area.

During this Stage, both the proposed footbridges, in Katekhaki and in Messoghion avenues, as well as the passage at Ilissos are constructed; the two bus lines start to

40 function. Also, during this stage, it is considered necessary to construct the underground pedestrian passage from Katekhaki metro station towards the Greek Radio Television complex.

Regarding the Institutional and Ownership Status

During the Stage One, the uniform Management and Function Body of the Metropolitan Park is formed and staffed. The present ownership status is resolved, through granting of the ownership of the sites by the various public and municipal bodies (Land Public Corporation, Ministries, Municipalities etc.) to the Body of the Park. Also, arrangements and restrictions pertraining to the Central Core of the Park as well as to the Control Zone are established.

8.2. STAGE TWO: TIME SCOPE – YEAR 2010

It is proposed that the remaining military installations as well as the Greek Radio Television installations should be removed by the year 2010, and these areas should be given over to the Metropolitan Park. The building of the Gendarmerie School is transformed into an Exhibition and Congress Centre; the Riding Centre of the General Athletics Secretariat is shaped into a Riding School; the Library of the Municipality of Athens, the National Archives and Publications Centre and the Cultural Centre as well as local scale cultural activities of the Municipality of Zographou are land- planned in the buildings of the Zorba camp; the Cultural Centre of the Municipality of Papagou is land-planned in a building of the Fakinou camp; the Museum and the Library for Audio-Visual Media as well as the School of Cinematography are land- planned in buildings of the Greek Radio Television, while, at the same time, the entrance square at the intersection of Messoghion and Katekhaki avenues is also shaped, and so is the section of the main axis from this entrance towards the central area of the Park.

It is proposed that the area of the Plessa camp be given over as a space of urban green, and probably some of its buildings should be preserved for the needs of the Municipality of Neo Psychico, as they could function as a refreshment pavilion and for local scale cultural uses.

CHAPTER 9: FINANCIAL DESIGN

Regarding the financial viability of the Central Core of the Park, the basic functions are:

• Cultural Functions: Museums, Exhibition areas, Libraries, Halls for Cinema, Music etc. • Scientific and Educational Functions: Congress-Exhibition Centre, Areas for environmental education. • Training – Further Education Functions: Training areas on subjects pertaining to cinema, music etc. • Functions for Publicity and Promotion of Special Products: Exhibiting areas – sale areas for the products of nursery-gardens. • Environmental Development Functions: Exhibiting areas for the information of the public, for demonstration of modern technologies etc. • Recreation Functions: Restaurants, Refreshment Pavilions, Cafés etc. • Sports Functions: Areas for various sports, e.g. basketball, tennis, football, swimming, cycling, riding, gymnastics, track and field sports etc. • Functions for Rendering General Services: Offices for cultural and sports associations, sales points relevant to the activities of the Park.

Expected income: In the sense of its redevelopment on the basis of the aforementioned functions, the Metropolitan Park constitutes a Centre for Rendering Services. Managed by a suitable Body which will be able either to act independently or, in the future, to come under the Organisation for the Management of Parks in the Attica Basin which is under formation, this Centre can render services in the following categories:

• Rendering Services under the responsibility of the Function Body without any charges for the cost of their function (libraries, exhibiting areas, spaces of green etc.). • Rendering Services under the responsibility of the Function Body with charges for the cost of their function (parking spaces, Museums, exhibiting areas, art halls, sports parks etc.). In this case, a ticket-price will be paid separately for each specific activity, and the amount for each one will be determined in accordance with the type of use and the corresponding demand.

The estimate for anticipated income is as follows: • Income from tickets: The relevant annual income is estimated at approximately Drs.300,000,000. • Income from parking: The relevant annual income from parking is estimated at Drs.660,000,000. • Income from exhibitions of specific products (exhibitions of children’s books, children’s toys, publications and books etc.): This income is estimated at Drs.100,000,000 annually.

The sum total of income accrued from rendering services in the aforementioned three activities amounts to approximately Drs.1,000,000,000 annually.

The anticipated income is estimated also on the basis of the purpose for which the use of spaces is provided:

• Providing use of spaces per particular case: It is estimated that the development of these areas can cover, at least, a time period of ten months annually. The relevant income from renting them is calculated to be, in conservative estimates, Drs.36,000,000 annually. • Providing use of spaces for scientific and educational purposes: It is estimated that the annual income from renting these areas will amount to Drs.60,000,000. • Providing use of spaces for recreation: It is anticipated that the demand for renting areas for recreational functions will be great, given that the Park, because of its quality and the morphology of its construction and also because of the variety of its functions will constitute an important pole of attraction at a local level as well as at a metropolitan level. The annual income from renting these areas are assessed, on average and with concervative estimations, to amount to Drs.300,000,000.

The overall amount of the annual income accrued from all the activities of the Park is approximately Drs.1,400,000,000.

Cost for the materialisation of the project: The materialisation of the project includes all the necessary design and construction activities as well as any activities for purchasing and installing the necessary equipment which pertain to the final functions of the Park and which will stay under the direct responsibility of the Management Body (functions regarding library, screening of films, information to the public, events, sales etc.). The remaining functions of the Park, namely, supply of spaces for permanent and periodic exhibitions, scientific and educational activities, supply of spaces for restaurants, movie-theatre, theatre, shops etc., are expected to be arranged and equipped through the responsibility and expenses – per particular case – of the entrepreneurs who will let the respective spaces from the Management Body of the Park.

The overall budget regarding the cost of constructions and space arrangements for Stages One and Two amounts to Drs.20,000,000,000 approximately.

Concise construction cost for the Central Core of the Park: The concise cost for the works of Stage One, the target year of which is 2004, amounts to Drachmae 15 billion approximately, whilst the works to be carried out during Stage Two, the target year of which is 2010, amounts to Drachmae 5 billion approximately.

Budget regarding cost of facilities and equipment: The overall budget regarding cost of facilities and equipment amounts to Drachmae 300,000,000.

CHAPTER 10: MANAGEMENT BODY OF THE PARK

10.1. INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK OF THE BODY

The scope of the Uniform Management and Function Body of the Metropolitan Park at Goudi-Ilissos is the area of the Central Core of the Park. The Control Zone remains under its present institutional status.

Objective: The planning, protection, development and management of the Metropolitan Park.

Legal Form: An organisation is established by law (in the legal form of a Legal Person under Private Law or of a Société Anonyme), either only and exclusively in order to manage and operate the specific Metropolitan Park, or as an affiliated corporation of a greater organisation for the management and operation of the Metropolitan Parks in the Athens Basin. Its administrative entity is activated independently, namely, it has an infrastructure and staff devoted exclusively to the fulfilment of its aims. In the event that it is an affiliated corporation of a greater organisation, there will be economies of scale.

Supervision – Staffing: The Body comes under the supervision either of the Ministry of Environment, Planning and Public Works or of the Ministry of the Interior, Public Administration and Decentralisation and it is staffed by representatives of the first- level and second-level local government, of the central administration etc.

Administration Bodies – Board of Directors: The administration of the Body will be effected by a nine-member Board of Directors, which is comprised of representatives from: the Ministry of Environment, Planning and Public Works; the Ministry of the Interior, Public Administration and Decentralisation; the Ministry of National Defence; the Ministry of Agriculture; the Unified Prefectural Government of Athens; and from the Municipalities of Athens, Zographou and Papagou.

Financial Management of the Body: The Body will not come under the stipulations pertaining to the Public Accounting System, with regard to its expenses as well as the supplies in general and the particular technical works, since it operates on the basis of the private sector rules and criteria. Also, it is exempted from all taxation except for Value Added Tax (VAT). The control for the financial management and for the balance-sheet is excercised by chartered accountants, and the balance-sheet is published, like all Société Anonyme balance-sheets, at the end of each financial period.

Resources of the Body: From its activity, from state subsidies, sponsorships, donations etc.

Duration of the Body: Twenty (20) years, and it can be renewed.

10.2. ORGANISATION AND STAFFING

Functions of the Body

The necessary functions which should be covered by the Body in order to manage effectively and profitably the functions of the Park, should be: promotion and marketing for visitors and entrepreneurs; administration-management of the uses of the complex which are under the direct responsibility of the Body; signing- monitoring-managing of contracts for renting the particular spaces; maintenance- technical management-cleaning of the areas which are under the direct responsibility of the Body; maintenance of the communal spaces of green and of walking; financial and accounting functions.

Administration

The administration of the Management and Function Body of the Park will be exercised by a Board of Directors which will define the basic guidelines for achieving the objectives of the Park (strategy for the development of activities, possible addition of new retributive or not activities, pricing policy). The efficient and profitable development of the functions of the Park, after it will be technically completed, can be effected in practice only through the establishment of a suitable and operationally independent administrative entity.

Structure – Staffing

In exercising his/her duties, the Managing Director will be assisted by four managing executives who will lead the respective sectors of activity of the Park:

• Head of Technical Services and New Works; • Head of Administrative and Financial Services; • Head of Sales and Public Relations; • Head of Plantings and Green

Staffing

It should be planned in such a way as to have the smallest possible operating cost. This requirement leads to the following principles regarding its being staffed: • Staff small in number but of a high level with regard to experience and capabilities, not necessarily highly specialised in specific fields; • Team work, with a possibility to mutually cover the duties between the cadres; • Wherever possible, instead of having permanent jobs of the Body, to use the possibilities of outsourcing, e.g. to use cleaning services for the surrounding area and offices, services for the maintenance of green etc.

Description of jobs – Anticipated cost

On the basis of the above principles and the administration organisational structure of the Body-Company, the necessary jobs which will be covered by personnel of full employment (except for the Legal Adviser who will be connected with the Body

45 through a labour relation of indefinite time), amount to fifty-six (56) and include: Director (1), Legal Adviser (1), Secretariat (2), Department of Sales and Public Relations (9), Department of Plantings and Green (6), Department of Technical Services and New Works (13), and, Department of Administrative and Financial Services (24).

The monthly gross pay regarding the aforementioned jobs in 1999 prices range between Drs.190,000 and Drs.700,000 and as a whole they are estimated at Drs.12,670,000.

CHAPTER 11: GUIDELINES REGARDING THE PROCEDURES FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF WORKS

In order to complete the natural planning and remove the possibility of non- achievement in the implementation of the basic principles regarding the organisation of the Metropolitan Park, it is proposed to follow a flexible procedure for the tendering of works and designs, which will be specified according to the particular object and its specific requirements.

In this sense, it is proposed to have a first general grading of the actions in accordance with the following criteria: the required extent of intervention, the crucial character of any particular areas in relation to the future character of the Park and, finally, the time limits for the best financial-technical approach in the materialisation of the works. Depending on the case, these actions can include architectural tenders, assigning of designs with the procedure of invitation to manifestation of interest, assigning of projects by means of the system of design-construction, and assignments for the materialisation of partial works through a tender to the lowest bidder.

Analytically:

• Architectural tenders – Assigning of designs: It pertains to the more “crucial” areas for the functions of the Park; these are grouped into two categories: the ecologically crucial areas (stream and riparian belt of Ilissos, non-watered formations of Hymettus etc.), and the core of the Park (restoration of listed buildings etc.). • Tendering of the works through the system of Design-Construction: It pertains to the Sports Parks and the plant technical works as well as to improvements to existing shapings-formations in accordance with the guidelines set out by the research project. • Tendering of the works through a Tender to the Lowest Bidder: It pertains to simple plant technical works for improvement of the existing plant shapings.

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