Builders, municipalities face off over height bonuses
A legal battle looms at the Council of State, Greece’s highest administrative court, in a week’s time over the constitutionality of building bonuses allowed under the New Building Regulation (ΝΟΚ).
Municipalities and organizations argue the bonuses, which permit taller buildings for improved energy efficiency, violate urban planning rules.
They believe building dimensions should follow local planning guidelines, citing past rulings.
On the other side, six construction companies and the Technical Chamber of Greece (ΤΕΕ) defend the bonuses, saying they encourage sustainable construction. They argue the bonuses support climate goals by reducing building coverage and improving energy performance.
The court is set to decide whether the bonuses are constitutional or if they unfairly allow larger developments, disrupting urban plans. Past decisions have ruled the bonuses unconstitutional, prompting the current review by the full council. If upheld, this could reshape building regulations and future developments across the country.
