The construction of three more metro stations in northern Athens moved a step closer yesterday as the consortiums taking part in the expansion of Line 3 were invited to submit bids for the project.

Barring any problems, the construction of stations at Holargos, Nomismatokopeio and Aghia Paraskevi will begin early next year. The three consortiums have until October 16 to submit their bids.

The operating company, Attiko Metro, said it hopes Nomismatokopeio station will be open by the end of next year. A parking lot with 470 spaces will also be built at the station.

Commuters will probably be able to use the Holargos and Aghia Paraskevi stations sometime during 2008.

Aghia Paraskevi station is the most complicated part of the project as no foundations for the station have been laid, meaning that part of the metro tunnel must be knocked down.

Therefore, the metro’s service between Ethinki Amyna and stations from Halandri to the airport will be suspended for a while.