Local Urban Plan of the Municipality of Rethymno

Consortis, as a member of the Association of Economic Operators,  responsible for implementing the study, plays an active role in the development of the Local Urban Plan (LUP) for the municipal units of Lappaioi, Arkadi, Rethymno, and Nikiforos Fokas. Among other supporting tasks, Consortis is specifically responsible for delivering the study’s land surveying component—a critical step in the spatial and environmental planning of the region.

The Problem

The absence of modern urban planning in key rural and semi-urban areas of Rethymno has resulted in:

• Unclear boundaries of streams and settlements
• Delays in licensing procedures and land development
• Conflicting interpretations and appeals that frequently hinder project implementation

Consortis’ Solution

A fundamental requirement for delineating settlements lacking clear boundaries, their potential expansions, and broader areas designated for urban development (residential and productive) is the prior demarcation of nearby streams. To address this, Consortis’ Department of Cadastre and Land Surveying  undertook a comprehensive and technically demanding surveying program that includes:

• Topographic Surveys: Complete ground-based surveys of streams adjacent to development zones, aimed at creating a reliable foundation for hydraulic and urban planning studies.
• LiDAR Technology via Drones: Application of 3D scanning in hard-to-access areas using active remote sensing technology for enhanced accuracy.
• Production of Digital Models: Development of high-resolution digital terrain models and orthophotos essential for accurate boundary mapping and environmental documentation.
• Provision of Technical Data: Support for all related studies (environmental, geological, hydraulic) with precise and up-to-date geospatial data.

Scope of the Contract

The study is being carried out under a public contract signed between the Technical Chamber of Greece (TEE) and the Association of Economic Operators, with Consortis playing a pivotal role in its technical implementation.

Benefits of the Local Urban Plan

• Establishment of land use designations, building regulations, settlement boundaries, and expansion zones
• Identification of protected areas and zones for productive development
• Integration of measures to address climate change and emergency response
• Modern urban planning for the municipal units of Rethymno
• Improved functionality and urban clarity
• Protection and sustainable management of the natural environment
• A foundation for sustainable local development and investment

This project underscores Consortis’ ongoing commitment to providing technically robust spatial planning solutions that enhance both the built and natural environments, while fostering the social and economic prosperity of local communities.