Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan provisions for traffic in historic centre

In the Central Corfu Municipality Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan (SUMP), measures are foreseen for regulating traffic in the historic centre of the town, aiming to relieve congestion, improve quality of life and the environment, and, more generally, protect public space.

Restricted Private Vehicle Traffic

A ban on the entry of private vehicles into the historic centre is foreseen, with exceptions for specific categories: residents, public transport vehicles, taxis, motorcycles, vehicles for people with disabilities, and emergency vehicles. This regulation was piloted in August 2023, limiting access daily from 20:00 to 23:59.

Controlled Parking & Underground Facilities

As part of the SUMP, the reintroduction of paid on-street parking is planned, with a time limit for vehicle stays.

At the same time, the idea of constructing an underground parking facility at San Rocco Square, with approximately 350 spaces, remains under consideration.

Moderate Traffic Zones

The plan includes converting many streets into moderate traffic zones through the introduction of one-way systems and speed restrictions. The goal is to prioritise pedestrians and cyclists and reduce congestion.

Public Transport & New Road Axes

The plan involves the introduction of a municipal transit system that would operate alongside the existing KTEL network, following the necessary studies.

Additionally, it proposes the creation of a new ring road from the Kampaniolos area, which would connect the northern and southern parts of the town, bypassing the town centre, which currently all traffic must pass through.

The plan was approved in the autumn of 2024 by the Municipal Council but faced opposition from residents of the old town, who expressed concern about the impact that the change in traffic regulations would have on their daily lives.

GIORGOS KATSAITIS