Planning without the planner: intrusive patterns in city and urban planning, as highlighted at the Mesochora dam operation and village relocation case

Abstract

This paper indicates malfunctions which occur in regional and urban planning, after efforts of the central State to exceed its institutionalized role and replace the planners. The strategic plan for the Municipality of Pindei, near Trikala, Greece provides the necessary background and reference point.

The Mesochora’s hydro-electric dam is a project of national importance and doubtful environmental value. For three decades, each legislation effort for its operation is being reported by local residents for its effects on both natural and man-made environment of the southern Pindus mountain region. The 3734/2009 law ignores all concerns of the local community, overrides the standard sequence of regional planning in Greece and adjusts urban planning elements for these sensitive mountain villages on a fragmentary pattern that lacks growth potential.

This paper’s research goals are the restoration of the regional and urban planning sequence, the harmonic co-existence of a major project with local needs in terms of planning and functionality, the influence between regional and urban scales and the reference of the human scale as a growth and sustainability factor. Finally, it concludes with alternative proposals, concerning the regeneration of Mesochora and its transition into a paradigm for mild, sustainable growth.