92001E0721

WRITTEN QUESTION E-0721/01

by Konstantinos Hatzidakis (PPE-DE) to the Commission

(9 March 2001)

Subject: Athens Underground

In Greece it has been proposed that self-financing be used to pay for the construction of part of the extensions to Athens Underground.

1. Has Greece submitted plans to construct the Underground extensions using this method of funding?

2. What is the Commission's view on this matter?

Answer given by Mr Barnier on behalf of the Commission

(11 May 2001)

The operational programme (OP) Road axes, Ports, Urban Development of the Community support framework for Greece during the 2000-2006 programming period, which was approved by the Commission on 19 March 2001(1), provides for the construction of the following extensions of the Athens Metro:

- Monastiraki Egaleo: 4,7 km long with 4 stations;

- Sepolia Thivon: 2,5 km long with 3 stations;

- National Defense Stavros: 5,4 km long with 5 stations;

- Dafni Ilioupolis: 1,1 km long with 1 station.

These extensions are planned to be constructed as public works financed exclusively by public funds.

The OP also provides for the construction of transfer stations with park and ride facilities near some Metro stations, with the participation of private funds under concession schemes.

The Commission considers that the above mentioned investment plan for the extensions of the Athens Metro is sound.

(1) C(2001) 534.