ABSTRACT
This chapter provides systematic account of the system of physical planning in Greece, as it existed in August 1979, as it has been shaped under the right-wing government of the country. The main organs of physical planning are certain ministries and public agencies. In association with the Ministry of Co-ordination expert committees are appointed, responsible for reports, advice, or implementation in matters of physical planning. Other government departments also have physical planning responsibilities. The physical planning system in Greece exhibits certain major defects, including lack of effectiveness, excessive centralisation and authoritarianism. Greek physical planning has a limited history of theoretical development, and almost no history of practical experience. The framework for more modern urban and regional planning legislation began to emerge during the 1970s, but in spite of this, Greek physical planning legislation is insufficient and in need of modernisation.
