Tables and chairs placed illegally outdoors in public spaces by establishment owners are being removed across Athens in a drive by local authorities to improve accessibility.
The Municipality of Athens said it was stepping up inspections in an effort to ensure public access.
Photo: City of Athens
City authorities said this week that they had already removed dozens of chairs and tables following 13 on-the-spot inspections, mainly in the historic center, carried out by the Municipal Police between June 23 and July 28.
According to the municipality, a total of 155 chairs, 55 tables, four sofas, as well as stools, parasols, and a large number of stands, display units, shelves and benches were seized.
Authorities said the illegally placed furniture was obstructing public access, particularly for people with disabilities.
Photo: City of Athens
Athens has one of the worst reputations in Europe for accessibility, largely due to inconsistent enforcement, lax regulation, failure to enforce penalties, and a licensing system that has allowed widespread encroachment on public space by businesses.
“The free use of public space by citizens is a priority… and a matter of respect for pedestrians, and especially for people with disabilities,” said Deputy Athens Mayor for Municipal Police and Public Areas, Eleni Zontirou.
