Mont Parnes bets 250 million euros on overhaul venture
The budget for the radical facelift of the Mont Parnes tourism complex, just a short drive northwest of Athens, will be a quarter of a billion euros and work is expected to be completed in the next four years. The owner of the complex, Hellenic Casino of Parnitha, yesterday presented its objectives and the actions planned for the restoration of the surrounding forest that was burnt last summer. Some -1 million will be devoted to the reforestation of the 61,200 square meters burnt last July. Chief executive Stephanos Theodoridis said that to date the sum of -70 million has been invested, mainly for the cable-car installation. The casino adds -96 million each year to the state’s coffers, directly or indirectly. Once the investment is completed, it will provide more than -120 million. The number of employees will also increase from 1,300 to 1,900. This year marks the 50th anniversary since work began on the complex’s main building. The project envisages the maintenance of the trademark Mylonas tower and the demolition of more recent additions to the complex. The owners aim to make the complex an example of modern environmental practice as the facelift plan includes green planted roofs, heat alternators, geothermal installations, photovoltaic systems, use of energy-saving appliances and light bulbs etc. The estimated total annual saving of energy from these innovations will be enough to supply an average Greek village with electricity and oil for about one year.
