The Greek government is investing over €1 billion to address the pressing issue of student housing, a crucial step towards ensuring accessibility and affordability for the country's young population. This initiative is particularly significant given the high rental costs and the chronic neglect of student accommodations, with many buildings dating back to before 1985. The focus is on major urban centers like Athens and Thessaloniki, as well as university hubs in Crete, Komotini, Thessaly, and Western Macedonia.
One of the most notable projects is the development of student halls in Crete, with the Aktor Group as the contractor. This project will result in 1,810 apartments in Rethymno and 1,016 apartments in Iraklio, providing a total of 2,710 beds and 2,136 beds, respectively. These new accommodations will significantly contribute to meeting the housing needs of over 18,000 students across the country, alleviating the pressure on the rental market for small houses.
The government's investment strategy includes a €226 million program for the renovation of 15 student residence buildings in Athens, Thessaloniki, Ioannina, Patra, and Komotini, aiming to accommodate 5,600 students and increase the buildings' capacity by 36%. This is a crucial step in addressing the state's chronic neglect of student housing, as 90% of these properties were built before 1985, with many in a state of severe disrepair, resulting in almost zero occupancy rates.
In Greater Athens, specific attention is being given to the student residence of the University of Athens on Olof Palme Street and the ASPAITE residence in Maroussi. Additionally, the National Technical University of Athens is investing around €50 million to renovate 450 beds in the old student dormitory in Zografou, with a PPP tender recently announced for the total reconstruction of the building within the university campus.
Another significant PPP project in Greater Athens involves the construction of the first newly built complex of student residences after the 1980s, with 1,100 residences being developed for the University of West Attica. These initiatives not only address the immediate need for student housing but also contribute to the long-term sustainability and quality of life for students in Greece.
