Operator News
Spectacular site for Mont Parnes relocation approved by Greek Environment and Energy Ministry
By Phil - 10 April 2024
Plans to relocate the Regency Casino Mont Parnes in Parnitha, Athens, have received a huge boost with the Greek Environment and Energy Ministry approving an environmental impact study for a new entertainment and hospitality hub called Project Voria in Maroussi in northern Athens.
The project to relocate the mountain-top casino, which was derailed in 2021, would see the licence move to the Dilaveri estate in Marousi. North Star Entertainment is the owner of the Parnitha casino with Regency Entertainment the main shareholder of 51 per cent of North Star Entertainment, with the rest 49 per cent, controlled by the Greek State.
Project Voria is a €250m investment by North Star Entertainment and is the first strategic investment to be implemented in Athens’ northern suburbs in many years. It would see the construction of a five-star hotel, event and conference venues, a variety of dining and entertainment options, as well as the casino. the project devotes 25,000 square meters out of the total floor space of 55,000 square meters for public areas and green spaces.
Yiannis Tsirikos, Chief Executive Officer North Star Entertainment, said: “The project will incorporate the most modern environmental standards, focusing on the creation of green spaces which will breathe life into an area that for many years was underutilized and degraded.”
He went on to add that the company’s vision is to ‘create a leading entertainment and hospitality destination, which will offer unique experiences to guests.’
Ian Gosling COO of Regency Entertainment also added: “It’s been a long time coming but be sure, now it has we will deliver a superb Integrated Resort, it’s all very exciting”
Despite a 2023 presidential decree permitting the casino’s relocation, the project had faced opposition with a challenge at Greece’s administrative court and another four lawsuits.
The location on the west side of Kifissias avenue is on a major north-south thoroughfare connecting central Athens and its northern more upscale districts. It is close to the Athens Olympic complex (OAKA) and the Greek capital’s biggest department store malls.
