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The Agora => Kefalonia News => Topic started by: Maik on Wednesday, 15 January, 2014 @ 20:09:29
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Work underway on Skala main street:
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_15_01_14_8_03_46.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_15_01_14_8_04_29.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_15_01_14_8_05_20.jpeg)
which, according to word on the street, will result in this:
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_15_01_14_8_06_41.jpeg)
(Yes, TonyD, the 'vampire cat' is still in the picture :) )
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I stand connected on my previous post. But I bet it was a bit noisy! :iroll:
I wonder how much it will look like the artist's impression. Thanks for the pics Maik. Be great if you could keep us informed.
Tony
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Has someone shown them the picture 'cos they're digging up the wrong bit!
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Maybe they're waiting 'til the holiday season to start work on the busy bit of the main street :dunno:
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So if the pedestrian only area is starting at the top of the street, is that where the barrier is going to be from now on.?
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I hadn't realised it is Groundhog Day already.
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Looks like this grand transformation is going right up to the top of the main street. Have they thought about the chaos this will cause with parking, coaches and deliveries? If the side streets are blocked off to the main street, many are not wide enough to turn round and they will be full of parked cars.
Where has the money come from, when they are not able to finish Katelios harbour? Shouldn't an unfinished project take priority instead of starting another one?
Many questions!
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Rog, I think this is the new tourist map on how to navigate through Skala once the main street has been pedestrianised:
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_17_01_14_6_01_06.jpeg)
Amazing! (http://goinggreek.info/index.php?topic=119)
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Actually that's the floor plan of our local IKEA. :btd:
But seriously - good questions from Roger.
Tony
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Actually that's the floor plan of our local IKEA. :btd:
Thanks, Tony, I was trying to blank this from my memory...
reminds me of the 'queue' this lunchtime for the *one* open checkout at L*dl :rant:
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Actually that's the floor plan of our local IKEA. :btd:
But seriously - good questions from Roger.
Tony
Please, please don't mention that Swedish store just off the motorway between Liverpool and Manchester. Or the one near junction 9 on the M6. Both bring out suicidal tendencies in me. But the one saving grace for their stores is the meat balls and chips + unlimited free coffee top-ups. It is best to sit in the canteen whilst SWMBO fights her way through the *you must go this way* system.
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Looks like this grand transformation is going right up to the top of the main street. Have they thought about the chaos this will cause with parking, coaches and deliveries? If the side streets are blocked off to the main street, many are not wide enough to turn round and they will be full of parked cars.
Where has the money come from, when they are not able to finish Katelios harbour? Shouldn't an unfinished project take priority instead of starting another one?
Many questions!
and another thing.....Next winter it will be dug up again to connect properties to the sewer main.
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Looks like this grand transformation is going right up to the top of the main street. Have they thought about the chaos this will cause with parking, coaches and deliveries? If the side streets are blocked off to the main street, many are not wide enough to turn round and they will be full of parked cars.
Where has the money come from, when they are not able to finish Katelios harbour? Shouldn't an unfinished project take priority instead of starting another one?
Many questions!
and another thing.....Next winter it will be dug up again to connect properties to the sewer main.
I believe that the connection to the properties is been done at the same time. Its the same contractor who is doing the pipe work from Skala to Poros. Quite a bit of work to be done in 16 weeks :dunno:
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Looks like this grand transformation is going right up to the top of the main street. Have they thought about the chaos this will cause with parking, coaches and deliveries? If the side streets are blocked off to the main street, many are not wide enough to turn round and they will be full of parked cars.
Where has the money come from, when they are not able to finish Katelios harbour? Shouldn't an unfinished project take priority instead of starting another one?
Many questions!
and another thing.....Next winter it will be dug up again to connect properties to the sewer main.
I believe that the connection to the properties is been done at the same time. Its the same contractor who is doing the pipe work from Skala to Poros. Quite a bit of work to be done in 16 weeks :dunno:
I understand that the residents are required to pay for the connections and many are refusing to do so (unless it is now being done for free). By the time this is sorted, it could be next winter.
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Roger is correct, this is going to cause mayhem on the side streets with not just locals and tourist parking, but with delivery vehicles parking on the side streets and walking their goods to the bar/taverna/shop etc. I feel sorry for the businesses located on the side streets, even the main access road into the village which together with the road we (NERO) were located on and where Greekstones/Kaliva/Galera are, will now become official car parks. I'm glad to be well out of it.
I suspect the money has been found following pressure from the families who own businesses at the bottom of the high street. Veto/Mikelatos etc, always get what they want, but in my opinion the pedestrianisation will make little difference (besides cosmetic) to the income of the businesses due to the ever growing influence of the hotels on the beach road who will continue to keep their clients inhouse with their own entertainment, pools, restaurants and bars.
If it is finished by the start of the summer season....I will parade up and down the street in my leopard skin thong. :lol:
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And of course post a pic here APB!! I'm not really sure what pedestrianising the top end of the road will offer, though perhaps the bottom will be a bit better - always seems to me the pavement is a bit narrow. Perhaps the village could do with a car park somewhere lower down.
Tony
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If it is finished by the start of the summer season....I will parade up and down the street in my leopard skin thong. :lol:
I think we're pretty safe there, Alan... but if it is finished on time, this is what we expect to see (http://www.clothestopose.co.uk/ekmps/shops/clarke/images/luxury-tiger-mankini-thong-38-p.jpg)
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Latest news I heard is that they will only do the 'top end' and save the lower part until next winter. Could be true, if they have realised it was a bit ambitious to do all of it in the time there is left.
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How will the dustbin lorry manage if the whole street is out of bounds to vehicles?. Also I think the businesses ie the tavernas will loose business if there is no added parking space for people coming in during the evening to eat .It will also make it difficult for less agile people to get to the high street if they have to park at the top of the village or below the Ramp. Ok coming down but not good when you have to walk up the hill. Speaking from experience! How will Etam car hire get their hire cars out if the high street is pedestrianized Maik ? Reckon it could turn very interesting with the tour buses when dropping off and folks have to walk to their accommodation more than a few feet!!I bet most of the locals have voted this as a good idea but once it starts to all go pear shaped and they are loosing a few bob they will soon start screaming! Just trying to visualise a coach coming round the 90deg bend by the viewing area and meeting one coming the other way!!!The coach drivers manage some brilliant manoeuvers in some of the places on Keffie but there is a limit. Its the same story as here every family seems to have at. : least 2 cars less parking space so they park all over the roads and our villages and roads were never built to have so much traffic .
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If it is finished by the start of the summer season....I will parade up and down the street in my leopard skin thong. :lol:
I think we're pretty safe there, Alan... but if it is finished on time, this is what we expect to see (http://www.clothestopose.co.uk/ekmps/shops/clarke/images/luxury-tiger-mankini-thong-38-p.jpg)
Might be a bit chilly Maik...by the way, is that Nigel from Mounda?
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:dunno: Haven't been down to Mounda lately. No special reason, just haven't been down there...
Hope you haven't splashed out on your new cozzie just yet, Alan. Had a look at Skala main street a little earlier today and doesn't *look* to be a lot of progress from the pic above :unsure:
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Rumour has it that somebody has lost the block paving!! So those leopard skin thongs are looking even more likely. :rant:
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Rumour also has it that the contractor has gone bust and that work has ground to a complete halt - sounds about right for over here?!
I wonder what the next rumour will be... :dunno:
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Well, is anyone surprised? I doubt it.
Will save the thong for when Greece (or England) win the World Cup.
:yahoo:
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:hmm: Could be a long wait... but then... OMG! (http://profile.ak.fbcdn.net/hprofile-ak-snc4/27522_113073565407938_9569_n.jpg)
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:hmm: Could be a long wait... but then... OMG! (http://profile.ak.fbcdn.net/hprofile-ak-snc4/27522_113073565407938_9569_n.jpg)
Oh dear.....may rethink the thong. Maybe a mankini instead.
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:yahoo:Was advised last night by the man in charge that rumours are false and the road will be finished in time for the season starting. Just hope I'm not being naive.
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It's become almost an annual ritual now. Will the road, sewer works, tarmac be done before the season starts?
The answer is obviously yes, but only in that half arsed way that only Greek engineers can accomplish! :hmm:
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Does any one have a progress update for the works so far?
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Haven't been to Skala since I posted last pic (not much reason to go there in winter), doubt there's a lot of progress to be seen. Maybe someone in that area will know different?
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Went today, no progress what so ever..!
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I bet end April they will suddenly decide to start work again ready for the tourists :yahoo:
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Too logical.......my money would be on a mid-May restart, stopping two weeks later
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I have been told that they are awaiting tiles from China.
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I have been told they will start the tiling (or it could be block paving) on 1st April, and the man who will do it can do 100 square metres per day. So if the road is about 10 metres wide and he starts outside my shop he should get my bit done on day one. If that happens I'll be a happy bunny but I'll probably be an April fool!
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I have been told they will start the tiling (or it could be block paving) on 1st April, and the man who will do it can do 100 square metres per day. So if the road is about 10 metres wide and he starts outside my shop he should get my bit done on day one. If that happens I'll be a happy bunny but I'll probably be an April fool!
I'm putting my money on an April Fool. Your *man* must be a superman if he can lay 100 sq metres in a day on his own. But seriously, I presume you mean men?
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Couple of piccies taken earlier today:
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_19_03_14_3_37_28.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_19_03_14_3_37_10.jpeg)
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lovely, particularly like the potential water feature at the bottom of the second pic
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100 sq mtrs a day is easy Phil, it's all down to the preparation.
Oh, hang on a mo!
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lovely, particularly like the potential water feature at the bottom of the second pic
:rofl:
By the look of it Maik has reserved it for himself!! ;)
Tony
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That's the best condition the road has been in for some time...
With 6 weeks to go till the start if the season, I still think its a big ask.
Wouldn't be surprised to see it black topped with a week to go before the visitors arrive.
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Latest news is that they have realised that this project cannot be finished in time for the start of the season. Well, what a surprise! The plan now is to concrete over it again and add wider pavements. Then dig it all up again next winter.
I doubt whether the planned transformation will ever happen! :dunno:
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I cannot believe it !
:doh: :doh: :doh: :oki:
Tony
PS Presumably all the blocks have been ordered so they will have to do it sometime. Or just... store the blocks somewhere. :blink:
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Or just... store the blocks somewhere.
Yes, they'll be "stored"
;)
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what a disgrace!!Some of the roads in Skala havn't recovered from the last major road works when they did up the sewers. It's a shame to give people coming out for the first time a terrible impression of Skala if it isn't tidied up. Us old hats have just got used to the Greeks hair brained ideas. Its the same with all their infrastructure ie the platia it looked lovely when it first had that lovely dancing fountain all lit up at night. As soon as it started to show a bit of wear and tare it was just left to rot no thoughts about repairing it. They sometimes do the same with their buildings and inside apartments and hotels. Nothing seems to get repaired and smartened up or if it does inspite of having very little to do from October to May they all seem to decide to do any jobs in the last week before opening time which more often than not is still being completed as the first tourist bus rolls up. Are they all lazy or what?God help them if they had our Health and Safety people coming round!!!!
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Maybe I could store some of the
blocks as my drive, on my drive.
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I shall return the leopard skin thong and mankini to the drawer.
:lol:
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I shall return the leopard skin thong and mankini to the drawer
Thank you (non) workmen of Skala!
:yahoo:
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Thought you might like to see this video of how you lay 100 mtrs of block paving per hour.
super paver (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jkVBg_-OviI)
Might have to get the Mankini out again. :yahoo:
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Clever machine but the blocks have to be cut to size before being loaded in manually. Could be painful if wearing the mankini though! :lol:
Tony
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I thought the blocks were all made a standard size (even the 'triangular' edging blocks)?
Anyways, here's a block paving machine that's a bit more modest (i.e. affordable):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oK1HyZQtA6M
I have designed and built this machine myself for block paving domestic driveways. This machine enabled me to lay 80 square meters of infill on this particular driveway in less than a day and a half, single handedly in the month of December, 8 days before the shortest day of the year.
youtube.com/watch?v=oK1HyZQtA6M
I'm sure all the people who (don't) walk up the top half of the main street will really appreciate it when if it's done.
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Nah - you're thinking of Lego, Maik! ;) . You do have to cut them - there's no such thing as a standard size patio/drive/road (yet!). And for herring bone patterns they have to be cut diagonally!!! And some of us have curved patterns on out patios!!!!!!
Tony
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And there was me thinking the standard size for rectangular moulded paving blocks is 10cm x 20cm x 5-10cm :doh:
Couple of piccies from Skala main street earlier this afternoon:
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_28_03_14_4_59_05.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_28_03_14_4_59_29.jpeg)
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That looks like it's going to be rather narrow once cars, bikes, delivery vans are parked on both sides
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Tarmac this year?
Good job there aren't any breweries in Skala, otherwise the p*ss ups might be disastrous.
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The top end of Skala main street is being concreted as we speak, not the smooth effect one would expect to see elsewhere but here, the Greek nice and lumpy way! The 'pavements' will be done separately, together with holes for trees to be planted.
I bet regular tourists can't wait to see it...?!
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I'm wondering if it's always been planned to lay down concrete, either as a sub-base or maybe the base for the blocks. Possibly not how it would be done in the UK, but we're not in the UK.
For anyone thinking of block paving their drive, an interesting video (http://youtube.com/watch?v=uNh74o7ifW8).
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That looks like it's going to be rather narrow once cars, bikes, delivery vans are parked on both sides
Looks like no room at all to me! :blink:
Tony
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Has another peak mid-afternoon today, little progress to be seen: only part concreted is as shown in piccie above, bit more iron grid added to what's shown in pic, looks like next load of concrete could be going down anytime.
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No, it's badly laid concrete for this year and then next year they will break it up and lay the blocks (from Japan or China!). :dunno:
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The iron grids within the concrete suggest a more permanent provision tha one year.
In fact, if it were just for a year, wouldn't ashphalt have been more appropriate?
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Er... were the blocks really definite?? :blink:
Tony
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I reckon there'll be a stall opposite The Pines this season selling your own bit of Skala high street to take home as a souvenir and they'll be a handy block shape to fit in the overhead locker of your plane or of course as they may fall out and brain someone, better under the seat in front.
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My mistake, they will be laying the blocks on top of the concrete next year.... The irrigation system should be going in soon, to water the trees planted in the circular concrete planters on the side of the street.
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circular concrete planters
The things that look like left-over joints from the mains drainage works? Oh well, at least it's a blessing if an irrigation system is installed, so often seen municipal flower beds full of thriving weeds and decaying remains of what were once healthy plants. It might actually all look quite attractive... when it's finished.
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circular concrete planters
e... when it's finished.
Should that be if it's finished?
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circular concrete planters
e... when it's finished.
Should that be if it's finished?
Skala won't seem the same if something gets finished :dunno:
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Which reminds me....did Katelios Harbour ever get completed?
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Come on TonyD, you know better than to ask that!
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:rofl:
Very funny guys!
Tolny
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Looks like the concrete now extends over half way up the upper part of the main street.
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Found the blocks.
Earlier today
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/80_06_04_14_5_16_14.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/80_06_04_14_5_17_00.jpeg)
In Kalkan Turkey!
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At least they're still working on it. Going on Katelios harbour (etc, etc, etc... ) I do hope that isn't how they leave Skala main street.
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Double time pay rate on a Sunday?
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Found the blocks.
Earlier today
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/80_06_04_14_5_16_14.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/80_06_04_14_5_17_00.jpeg)
In Kalkan Turkey!
Thanks for the pictures 69Bonnie :btu: :btu:
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Concrete creeping up Skala main street today towards the top end:
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_07_04_14_4_17_46.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_07_04_14_4_18_12.jpeg)
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Found the blocks.
Earlier today
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/80_06_04_14_5_16_14.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/80_06_04_14_5_17_00.jpeg)
In Kalkan Turkey!
:rofl:
Er.... Not a job I'd fancy doing but if I were to do it I wouldn't have the blocks dumped over the area I was planning to lay them on - seems more like a Greek idea....... :doh: . I have them put to one side and before anyone says that would block (ahem!) a fairly narrow road you're going to have to move them there anyway as you go along.
Tony
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Didn't get much of a look at the roadworks as Mary whizzed past but certainly not cemented up to the top crossroads yet.
Looks like Skala beach clean is done, really looks quite luscious.
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Looks like Skala beach clean is done, really looks quite luscious
wish I was there to see it :(
picture? ;)
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Today they dumpt several large trucks full of cobbles and sand on Skala main street. It will be interesting to see how long it takes them to do something with them. Luckily for me they are starting at the bottom so the road outside my shop should get done first. One problem I've had is worth mentioning. I have a drain pipe from the balcony above the shop coming through the tented part which emptied into the gutter. Now we have no gutter and my drain pipe has been blocked!! On mentioning this to the civil engineer for the job he stated that this had happened in several cases and it was down to me to 're-route' the pipe! My other half had to be held back!
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Roy had somewhere in mind where he'd like to shove the drainpipe?
Got any leopard skin thongs in stock? Just in case APB needs one...
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No, no leopard skin thongs, my retinas couldn't take it!
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Is there a Greek word for "planning"?
In my experience this happens every year. Just as all owners have finished cleaning and painting the front of their premises ready for the start of the season some tosspot "engineer" decides to commence the work they should started 6 months ago. They start it, leave a mess, then buggar off leaving you with sh*t everywhere and the worry of whether it ever be finished.
Alison you should really get some of these in.... :wacko:
http://www.internationaljock.com/male-power-leopard-skin-wonder-thong,9556.html
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Yup, that's Greek planning. Down to a fine art in Skala now after several years of practice. Should put them in line for the "PIGS" (remember them?!) Planning Trophy for the current season.
In the UK public authorities often have a very different approach - they go in for "forward planning", which I always feel is the best kind. ;)
Tony
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Some piccies taken yesterday: concrete now laid to top junction on main street, sand and gravel being laid in the side areas not concreted, blocks look little like anything I can see in the original image (see first pic, below) but a lot like the blocks 69Bonnie came acros in Kalkan. Wonder how much the finished(?) works will resemble the original image :hmm:
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_15_01_14_8_06_41.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_14_04_14_1_50_21.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_14_04_14_1_50_47.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_14_04_14_1_52_29.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_14_04_14_1_52_56.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_14_04_14_1_53_17.jpeg)
Sorry, Maarm, bit cloudy yesterday, didn't do the beach justice.
Alison, you really shouldn't get a supply of those in...
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Little obvious change to Skala main street but the 5cm x 1m trench from Spileo to Poros has been surfaced in various stretches, still single lane with passing in places.
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The baker told me today the contractor has stopped work until he receives payment for works so far.
Apparently there is an issue with the EU grant funding.
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Thanks, Bonny, Mary will be relieved to hear that. Haven't seen much sign of activity for the past week or so when we've been passing through.
I thought maybe they had a mate in Poros who warned them when Mary was heading their way.
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lol :yiamas:
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Traffic jam on the Poros - Skala road (drainage ditch almost all surfaced):
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_29_04_14_4_11_33.jpeg)
Skala beach. Can't really see but, in the distance, the brollies and beds are coming out:
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_29_04_14_4_25_14.jpeg)
New footpath, from Tesoro Blu (almost) to Aeolos:
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_29_04_14_4_13_16.jpeg)
Skala main street - yes, work on block pathing the road has started!!!
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_29_04_14_4_12_44.jpeg)
Outside Alison's shop... methinks one happy bunny :bun1:
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I dont think I'll be packing my best shoes to wear in June just yet! :lol: :yiasou:
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I dont think I'll be packing my best shoes to wear in June just yet! :lol: :yiasou:
Stilettos never likely to be much good with that incline!
Tony
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and here was me blaming the ouzo! :yiamas:
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I reckon plenty of Ouzo would help you follow the "straight" line of paving - they're not going to finish that before the first packages arrive on Thursday are they?
:flyer:
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Never seen such a diabolical mess. Who is in charge in Skala? Haven't they got a Mayor and a local council who could have done far more to keep up with this fiasco? What a sight to greet all the visitors who have paid good money to expect more than a construction site on their holidays, especially on the main drag where everyone will be going to eat in the evenings. I feel very sad and yes quite angry that people are not prepared to show more effort into showcasing a lovely village, yet expect people to come and spend their hard earned money in the village. Next thing the locals will all be complaining that the tourists aren't coming any more. Not much wonder!!It's for sure that Thomsons and Thomas Cook will not forewarn their customers that there are any problems, they have a code of silence. We found this when we came the year of the fire landing at the airport not being told that the previous evening all the tourist had been evacuated to Poros. Again the year that the sewers had been dug up and were still being filled in, 12foot deep holes in the roads after having all winter to get the work done. Come on locals get your act together or else you will loose all your customers and they may never return!!!!
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Looking at the latest photos and comparing them against the original artists impression, it appears that a full pedestrianisation is not taking place but simply an extending of the pavements. This still leaves the issue of traffic which I suppose will be re routed by the pathetic barriers that seem to disappear at some point each season ( I know who it is and I have shaken his hand in thanks ). The new pavements look much safer than the previous shiny crazy paving but is not what was promised. Then again, what do you expect? I have said before, I am glad to be out of it.
:btd:
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Come on locals get your act together
Come the elections they'll probably vote for the usual suspects.
Looks so far as though the original pavements are staying in place (unlike in artist's impression). Will surely spoil the overall look when (er, if) it's finished.
Then again, what do you expect?
:schtum:
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It's because of the elections that work has restarted!
Bit more progress but cannot figure out how to post pics from my mobile!!!
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Road paved (bricked?) about half the road width for approx. one shop length roughly (appropriate word) outside Alison's shop (i.e. opp periptero). Let's hope a lot gets laid before the elections :pray:
(...and before someone breaks their leg) :iroll:
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I am dreading what they are going to do on the pavement, they say it will be cobbles right to the edge of my shop, which will be higher than the internal tiles. I am hoping some free t shirts might ensure a reasonable job but am resigned to what I will get. Not much I can do anyway. Just would recommend all you ladies that like to wear high heels to leave them at home you are liable to break your shoes or worse. :oki:
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Around 15:00 today:
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_04_05_14_5_14_25.jpeg)
Have a look at the piccie (above (http://goinggreek.info/index.php?topic=112.msg2360#msg2360)) of the new footpath between Tesoro Blu and Aeolos, well, up by George Studios is another new footpath - except it's about half the width. If we can train the cats and chickens to walk on it... it might be some use.
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Give the main street about another month and it might be ready! :oki:
Tony
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That looks a novel way of laying paving blocks or setts. BUT, it does have the authentic Greek uneven look about it.
Skala wouldn't be the same if it didn't have uneven pavements, potholes in the road and H & S issues to trap the unwary tourist.
Note to female tourists: don't pack your stiletto heeled shoes unless they can fit in your handbag whilst you walk in flatties to your taverna destination. (I hope that didn't sound sexist - it wasn't intended to)
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Ever wondered why the pavements were made so high in Skala? It's because when it rains hard, it doesn't run in to all the shops. Sometimes it can be like a river flowing downhill, so if it is all on the same level, I hope Alison remembers her waders!
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Give the main street about another month and it might be ready! :oki:
Tony
No chance Tony. I reckon it is all a political game to keep us tourists coming to view the *new High Street*. The High Street, as you will be aware, is new every year - but always the same. That is probably why people keep coming back?
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I believe that they are building the set for Hugh's Kefalonia Street. Starts filming at the start of June! :yahoo:
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it does have the authentic Greek uneven look about it.
Doesn't it just! Looks like it was laid 2,000 years ago and endured some earth movement in between :)
Agree with the other comments... can't see it being finished in a month, though :oki:
Hm, how about a poll on how long before the first sprained ankle / broken leg?
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Reckon it could be within the next week and it could be the Thomson rep!!When they did the sewers the Thomson rep had only been out a week and she fell down a hole and had to be flown home with a broken leg. As mentioned I do hope there are no flash floods for the next ten years say ,so that it gives them time to get it done. The "Gentle curve" of the blocks remind me of the time the white line man came to mark the street after it had been tarmacked (some years ago)As most of the street was filled with parked cars the lorry had to meander from side to side around the parked cars. The finished effect was SOMETHING!! to behold. A snake like line stretched all the way up the high street .Words fail me !!!This is in a country who produced Pythagoras.
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Just a thought. Maybe Luke could use the road as a backdrop for one of his films. Just imagine it, an unfinished road, poor lighting, people disappearing down holes, cries for help. Oh well, just a thought.
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Actually looking closer at the setts they've been laid on a layer of concrete, possibly 3 inches thick, certainly no more than 4. Depending on what's under the concrete it will be interesting to see how quickly it cracks! And Roger is very right about the pavement height and the potential for some serious flooding. Unless of course there is now sufficient surface water drainage.
Tony
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I have a cunning plan for a potential business opportunity:
Import thousands of hessian sacks from China. Fill them for free with sand from the beach........... store them at the top of the village and keep a careful eye on the weather forecast in readiness for a rush of cash buyers.
But there might be more profit to be made form stocking wellington boots?
(.... the usual tongue in cheek disclaimer applies).
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Actually looking closer at the setts they've been laid on a layer of concrete, possibly 3 inches thick, certainly no more than 4. Depending on what's under the concrete it will be interesting to see how quickly it cracks! And Roger is very right about the pavement height and the potential for some serious flooding. Unless of course there is now sufficient surface water drainage.
Tony
My bet is 2½ inches maximum.
-
The lads are cracking on:
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_09_05_14_6_33_30.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_09_05_14_6_33_53.jpeg)
Wouldn't fancy riding a two-wheeled vehicle down there. Wonder what the grip is like in the wet?
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Wots the word on the street man ! Just wondering how our heroes are getting on and the effect on tourists and businesses alike. Has much happened ?
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Don't think the cobbles have progressed much up the main street but the side bits look to have been cobbled and a layer of cement applied between the cobbles to about half height. Don't think anyone has broken a limb yet, not much business beyond the cig kiosk to be affected. Currently working in lovely :hmm: Lassi t.f.n. but I'll try to grab a piccie.
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Good lad. Look forward to the update. Fight the good fight in Lassi it'll all be over soon !
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Good lad. Look forward to the update. Fight the good fight in Lassi it'll all be over soon !
:pml: :pml: :pml:
Sorry Maik!!
Tony
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Here is a link to how those cobbles turned out in Kalkan.
http://kalkan.turkishlocalnews.com/portal/kalkan-news/360954-a-ktln-photo-special-kalkan-is-ready-to-welcome-you
Finished before the tourists arrived!
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Here is a link to how those cobbles turned out in Kalkan.
http://kalkan.turkishlocalnews.com/portal/kalkan-news/360954-a-ktln-photo-special-kalkan-is-ready-to-welcome-you
Finished before the tourists arrived!
Looks a nice place.Let's hope the guy's can complete as good a job in Skala !
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Here is a link to how those cobbles turned out in Kalkan.
http://kalkan.turkishlocalnews.com/portal/kalkan-news/360954-a-ktln-photo-special-kalkan-is-ready-to-welcome-you
Finished before the tourists arrived!
Looks a nice place.Let's hope the guy's can complete as good a job in Skala !
LOL!
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Skala main street earlier this afternoon:
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_21_05_14_4_46_26.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_21_05_14_4_46_12.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_21_05_14_4_45_54.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_21_05_14_4_45_34.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_21_05_14_4_45_17.jpeg)
Looking OK (IMO)
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Yep I'll go along with that. Just happy that it's not gonna turn into a total dog's a--e ! Just a bit of a shame it couldn't have been completed before the season started.Hope the locals feel a little better about the look of the project. The new traffic regs may be a different story altogether !
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It is beginning (just!) to look like it's getting somewhere. Think it looks better in the pics we had of Turkey where the road was much narrower, but the edging and shaping are quite good in Skala. Seems there's some drainage from one of Maik's helpful pics:
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_21_05_14_4_45_34.jpeg)
But what are the big round things - tourist traps??!
Tony
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But what are the big round things - tourist traps??!
:lol:
Methinks they be the planters. Look like bits of left over drainage pipes to me, probably cost peanuts.
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But what are the big round things - tourist traps??!
:lol:
Methinks they be the planters. Look like bits of left over drainage pipes to me, probably cost peanuts.
Nah.... They are giant ashtrays
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that looks pretty good, but they better put the trees/plants in before September I'm quite short and falling in one of those may mean someone calling international rescue to get me out.
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Well... they might be Greek hobbit holes
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Seeing them in the flesh as it were, I was tempted to ask the guy juggling the steel planters into place if he knew what a spirit level was ;-)
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He would probably have told ya it's the point just before the Metaxa spills all over the table !
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So, let me get this straight... They're gonna fill the planters with Metaxa. Seems like a good idea to me! :wacko:
Tony
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So, let me get this straight... They're gonna fill the planters with Metaxa. Seems like a good idea to me! :wacko:
Tony
Ive got my straw ready...................................... :yahoo:
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Right on Tony. I've 'allways' loved Skala! Now where's that packet of straws gone ?
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"So, let me get this straight... They're gonna fill the planters with Metaxa. Seems like a good idea to me! :wacko: "
oxi oxi oxi They're gonna fill the planters with Me Tax A have not paid :rofl:
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Earlier today:
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_26_05_14_12_05_26.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_26_05_14_12_05_53.jpeg)
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I must say it is looking a lot better now.
BUT, there appear to be some businesses fronting the High Street which could, potentially, suffer flooding in extreme weather. I have no idea what diameter the storm drains are, but the grids are few and far between. The old high kerb was there for a purpose.
I hope I am not being too pessimistic, but I still think there should be a stockpile of sandbags handy :papa:
Phil
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Might look nice if Katelios seafront were similarly surfaced
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I must say it is looking a lot better now.
BUT, there appear to be some businesses fronting the High Street which could, potentially, suffer flooding in extreme weather. I have no idea what diameter the storm drains are, but the grids are few and far between. The old high kerb was there for a purpose.
I hope I am not being too pessimistic, but I still think there should be a stockpile of sandbags handy :papa:
Phil
I thought that too, but wasn't sure about the number of drains. The old "solution" meant that the step down from the pavements was very high and as it happened they were also very narrow in places.
Block paving would be nice in Katelios but I'm not sure the road down the front does have drains at all!
Tony
Tony
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The old high kerb was there for a purpose.
Bye 'eck, the old high curbs are there to stop the rain washing over the pavements! I always thought it was to ensure people parked abandoned their cars in the middle of the road 'cos they couldn't open the doors if they parked anywhere near the kerb! :doh:
If cobbles were laid on a slight slant away from the tavernas on Katelios seafront gravity would work nicely! (instead of fighting an uphill battle)
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If cobbles were laid on a slight slant away from the tavernas on Katelios seafront gravity would work nicely! (instead of fighting an uphill battle)
After a good night out I can assure you they are! ;)
Tony
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If cobbles were laid on a slight slant away from the tavernas on Katelios seafront gravity would work nicely! (instead of fighting an uphill battle)
After a good night out I can assure you they are! ;)
Tony
Tony
Was it the slight slant, the seafront gravity or the uphill battle that made your good nights out memorable?
Or was it the beverages which were responsible?
Phil
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The new path that runs up past Apostolis and George Studios:
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_30_05_14_11_51_35.jpeg)
Skala main street earlier today:
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_30_05_14_11_51_53.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_30_05_14_11_52_08.jpeg)
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Looks OK but now a month into the season and not finished. :btd:
Tony
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I reckon it is all a political game to keep us tourists coming to view the *new High Street*.
Yep, you've all got to come again in October to see it finished.
I'm just not sure what year :hmm:
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The continuing saga of:
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_10_06_14_4_03_14.jpeg)
I thought the plan was to pedestrianise the main street but the signpost is still pointing this way to Argostoli and, as there's no barricade at the lower end, the newly paved street is certainly being used by motor vehicles:
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_10_06_14_4_03_43.jpeg)
I'm getting to rather like it:
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_10_06_14_4_04_05.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_10_06_14_4_04_24.jpeg)
Top end of the main street:
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_10_06_14_4_04_44.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_10_06_14_4_05_09.jpeg)
I though this might be a (strangely sited) permanent barrier but it looks to be there to keep traffic off the bit being worked on:
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_10_06_14_4_05_28.jpeg)
Pretty patterns in the paving:
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_10_06_14_4_05_52.jpeg)
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The cobbles are not pointed nearly enough!
If that was Liverpool there'd be a gang of Lawyers waiting to pounce if you slipped, tripped or fell!
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The cobbles are not pointed nearly enough!
If that was Liverpool there'd be a gang of Lawyers waiting to pounce if you slipped, tripped or fell!
The similarity between the words cobbles and cobblers is not coincidental :wacko:
The earliest recorded cobbles were laid in Rome outside a cobbler's workshop. The cobbler, who put up the cash, wanted to assure himself of a good trade in repairing the Roman equivalent of what we now know as stiletto heels.
If you think I am talking cobblers you might be correct :yahoo:
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If that was Liverpool
There's no truth in the rumour the cobbles had been (briefly) laid in Liverpool but were ripped up overnight and quickly flogged off to Kef?
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Nope, they are still here....
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Just had another look at latest pics, number 4 seems to have a boat shape cut-out - mini Nautilus proposed or did someone leave a dingy out overnight?
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If that was Liverpool
There's no truth in the rumour the cobbles had been (briefly) laid in Liverpool but were ripped up overnight and quickly flogged off to Kef?
Nah - but if someone would like to make me an offer on St. George's Hall - the building on the left in the great pic from APB - I'm sure I could arrange something!! ;)
BTW the cobbles in William Brown Street show how they should be done!! No one could move them. Doubt if even the Corpy could!!
Tony
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As the temperature increases the cobbles climb higher up Skala main street. Just about to the end of Ocean View Hotel now:
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_21_06_14_3_06_25.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_21_06_14_3_06_49.jpeg)
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What happens when the cobbles get down to the square? Did they start at the bottom
Tony
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Piccies taken a little earlier today: the end is in sight, guess the questions now are...
will cobbles and cash run out before the crossroads?
will the street be pedestrianised or remain a cobbled road?
will the bottom half of the main street be cobbled and, if so, when?
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_01_07_14_2_25_04.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_01_07_14_2_25_25.jpeg)
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The big question for me is " what happens when it rains" ?
As you know Mike, the storms in Sept onwards can create quite a spectacle as the water torrents down the hill. If the cobbles end at the crossroads, I can see a swimming pool developing in the churchyard and Status Cafe better start building a ditch for a new moat. :pray:
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Rain... the stuff dreams are made of! :pray:
Indeed, Al, could be very interesting: the patterns in the paving could cause puddles floods where none existed before. I doubt the new drainage system and the new paving were designed to work with one another.
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A few clouds and a few drops of rain in places but still awaiting a downpour to see how slippery it is and if it floods anywhere. Haven't noticed any work on it recently (maybe it's too hot, maybe you'll all have to come back in October to see it finished) but quite a few cars parked on the cobbles earlier this afternoon. While it looks quite good (IMO), several people have mentioned that the cobbles aren't that comfortable to walk on, so instead of encouraging more people onto the main street it might have the reverse affect
:dunno:
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Well, Skala main street got a testing this afternoon! A few thunderclaps and a very light shower in Poros early this morning was followed by a cloudy sky and a shower in Skala around 09:30, then it turned bright and sunny - until around 14:45 when the heavens opened for about half an hour:
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_15_07_14_4_26_34.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_15_07_14_4_26_55.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_15_07_14_4_27_10.jpeg)
There was a steady stream on the right running down towards Alison's shop, seemed to get smaller as it went down, no obvious signs of flooding except on the beach road. Car gripped the cobbles quite OK - mind you, early May I'd swapped the old, well-worn super-saver 'slicks' for new Dunlops, which might've helped.
Just out of Skala, around Pelagos Bay Hotel, hardly any sign of rain and dry roads before Porto Skala, all the way to Poros, where I snapped this old... whatever it is:
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_15_07_14_4_27_27.jpeg)
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ust out of Skala, around Pelagos Bay Hotel, hardly any sign of rain and dry roads before Porto Skala, all the way to Poros, where I snapped this old... whatever it is:
I'd say a very hot and stuffy tin can.
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Wonder what CRASH 1 looked like?
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You can get em off Eurocar - €
10 €5 a day! ;)
More to the point looks like the main street did OK in the downpour.
Tony
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Work still in progress on cobbling Skala main street, no progress towards the top but the side bays being fitted with red cobbles.
Barriers went up yesterday evening for the first time this summer. Bit of a surprise, kept most cars out - and pedestrians too, seemed noticeably quieter on the main street last night.
Edit: typo
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Well, the tourists have all-but all gone, the weather is pleasant and work on cobbling Skala main street has
finished... er, stopped. Don't think anything much has been done since end of July. BIG surprise there, then!
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_09_10_14_6_55_12.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_09_10_14_6_55_40.jpeg)
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Well, the tourists have all-but all gone, the weather is pleasant and work on cobbling Skala main street has finished... er, stopped. Don't think anything much has been done since end of July. BIG surprise there, then!
Amazing! :oki:
Tony
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Hi All, just wondered if there was any further progress with the main street?
B
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No bull, Bobby, men at work:
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_20_11_14_5_17_14.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_20_11_14_5_18_03.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_20_11_14_5_18_20.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_20_11_14_5_18_39.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_20_11_14_5_18_55.jpeg)
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Great, fantastic pics Maik. The one with the cow should have the GGi copyright - too good not to be nicked!
Tony
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Thanks Maik
What are the chances of it being complete by the new season, look forward to seeing it next year :yahoo:
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Work has now started on the lower half of Skala main street. At this rate, maybe it will be finished for next season.
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/11_09_12_14_10_07_02.jpeg)
Looking up the main street towards the crossroads.
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/11_09_12_14_10_07_36.jpeg)
Looking down towards the crossroads.
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From the top crossroads on Skala main street - bit of finishing needed:
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_12_01_15_7_43_11.jpeg)
Road dug up and concrete laid to about the top end of Solomos s/m, old tarmac there on down:
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_12_01_15_7_43_40.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_12_01_15_7_44_06.jpeg)
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(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/5_10_02_15_5_16_05.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/5_10_02_15_5_16_31.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/5_10_02_15_5_16_52.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/5_10_02_15_5_17_19.jpeg)
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Great pics
Mary... er Maik ;)
Looks like it might be finished at long last. When did it start 2008? :rofl:
Tony
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Would make a brill Luge run.Have to get my tin tray ready!!!
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Looks a nice job. can't wait to see it in April . Thanks for the pics :bun2:
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Sunshades being erected on the beach outside Regina Dell Acqua:
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_26_04_15_4_11_31.jpeg)
Work in progress on the concrete shell below Crystal Palace / before Regina Dell Acqua:
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_26_04_15_4_12_09.jpeg)
Make-over of the old bungalow between Etam Travel and Mikelatos (Scandinavia):
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_26_04_15_4_15_45.jpeg)
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What are the chances of it being complete by the new season
Plateia / Pines corner:
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_26_04_15_4_12_47.jpeg)
Along the square:
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_26_04_15_4_13_30.jpeg)
Looking up the main street:
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_26_04_15_4_14_06.jpeg)
So, coming along… at the usual Greek pace… still an ankle / axle trap
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_26_04_15_4_16_14.jpeg)
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http://kefaloniapress.gr/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=59547&Itemid=188
The above link to the Kefalonia Press site shows some interesting pictures along the Skala road. It looks like you need to have at least 4 people with when driving so as to get you out of a hole. Also, the photos towards the end show a cute dog with "I love You" hanging around its neck next to a dustbin.
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Didn't see the remains of the pruning nor the stuffed toy when I drove through Skala today... the ankle / axle traps are, at least, pretty obvious!
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Nice pics, Maik. Quite a mess down "your" end and round the square. They couldn't leave it like that into the season... could they?! :blink:
Thanks for the link BeeTee. Kefalonia Press put the boot in very nicely!
Tony
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Is it just me or......
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_26_04_15_4_16_14.jpeg)
.....ok, I'll get my coat.
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Is it just me or......
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_26_04_15_4_16_14.jpeg)
.....ok, I'll get my coat.
OK. I think I know where this is going ;)
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Oh my! It's a giant exclamation mark.
Or look at it another way, it's a giant keyhole into a mysterious world.
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Oh good lord, how much did they drink at lunchtime. I can't decide if the streets look good or awful. Certainly wouldn't ride a bike down it and expect to keep all my teeth.
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Is it just me or......
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_26_04_15_4_16_14.jpeg)
.....ok, I'll get my coat.
OK. I think I know where this is going ;)
Looks like someone's dropped a bollock....
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Maik, this looks like it has blocked Etam's driveway and I gather that many driveways have been blocked in this way. Do you think this is deliberate? It seems that the 'planter' outside Gerry's (the chemist) has been filled in with bricks, so maybe that is what will happen to the rest!
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What an advert for Skala!!!I do hope it looks a bit better than this almighty mess before the visitors arrive. I would be asking for a move and a refund!!
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What an advert for Skala!!!I do hope it looks a bit better than this almighty mess before the visitors arrive. I would be asking for a move and a refund!!
Almighty mess? - I reckon it looks much better than it has for many years. And the testicular challenged planter might become a talking point for visitors to the High Street tavernas.
I would be interested to know on what grounds you would be asking for a move and a refund.
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Looks like there is another knob shaped hole outside Solomos supermarket. As the Solomos family have fingers in several pies within Skala, I am amazed that this has been allowed as they are usually up in arms about anything that could affect their businesses.
I suppose it depends on whether the pedestrianisation is actually pedestrianisation or just a re laying of the road allowing vehicles to park wherever they can fit in. If so, then Dr Yannis is going to be busy with injured tourists negotiating the haphazard parked cars and delivery vehicles as well as the strategically placed phallic symbols. Ladies beware and take flat shoes for the nightly parade up and down Skala Main St otherwise don't forget to bring copies of your insurance docs.
Also looking forward to seeing how the road deals with the late summer rains and how businesses will stop the water flooding into their premises....might be worth investing in a sandbag business!
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I've been visiting Skala since 1992 each year sometimes twice a year and know that the Greeks are renowned for leaving everything until the last minute when with a bit of thought things could have been done in good time over the closed season. They are also renowned for not finishing things off properly in the race to get opened up and start earning, this lot looks like a disaster waiting to happen.When they replaced the large drain pipes a few years ago we went out on the first flights and it was in a terrible state .Some places couldn't open up because of all the dust and dirt blowing around and our rep fell down a hole and had to be sent back to UK We smiled and shook our heads knowing what the Greeks were like .Just imagine its your first time out and maybe you have someone who is not too good on their feet or little children anxious to run about. Do you want to be spending the whole time watching how you go when you go down the street? We are not all nimble on our feet! As you say Dr John will have a waiting room full of patients. They are also well known for not putting things right if they go wrong or get broken. Things look lovely when new but soon get dilapidated because they are too lazy to get them fixed I can well see some of the reps having one or two questions to answer if its still in this state by the end of next week. Ladies will be asking why they weren't warned that high heels are not appropriate on Greek village streets. Not much fun coming out to a building site when you have booked from brochures showing a nice tidy village. We love Skala warts and all but some people are much more picky than us!!!I also wonder how the old people in Skala are coping?
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Indeed, it would be a phallus-y to think there's only one – this one's just about outside Galaxy supermarket. Don't think it obstructs access but won't make it easy to park outside (unless it gets filled in at ground level one night).
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_28_04_15_8_18_56.jpeg)
I've really no idea whether it's going to be pedestrianised, or pedrianised after 18:00 June to September, or what's going on. If it's not pedestrianised I think a lot of the features will be visually lost under and between vehicles parked (even more) haphazardly.
Could be interesting to see whether 'full insurance' applies to hire cars that have accidentally been dropped down into the tank traps. If the flower beds ever get finished I suspect they will look nice for a while and then be overtaken by weeds as the plants die off through lack of proper care.
Could also be interesting to see what tourists think of it. IMO the workmen have done a good job but (to me) it doesn't make Skala look genuine or traditional, or whatever the idea was. It might look good somewhere such as Fiskardo or Assos but many of the buildings have, or are getting, a distinctly modern look – Mi'Abeli with it's new glass frontage, the new bar(?) between Etam and Scandies, Veto, Omerta to name but a few. All very nice but do the olde-worlde cobbles 'fit'?
Ladies beware and take flat shoes for the nightly parade up and down Skala Main St
Are you not wearing high heels with your mankini, Alan? (just kidding ;))
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Looks like there is another knob shaped hole outside Solomos supermarket. As the Solomos family have fingers in several pies within Skala, I am amazed that this has been allowed as they are usually up in arms about anything that could affect their businesses.
I gather that Solomos are in the process of sueing the council.
Today I was looking at progress at the lower end by the square and a guy was laying the bricks, while four others were stood watching!
-
Earlier today:
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_09_05_15_2_42_04.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_09_05_15_2_40_40.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_09_05_15_2_39_45.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_09_05_15_2_41_37.jpeg)
Not sure what chance those small shrubs have of avoiding being mown down by cars and wagons :hmm:
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Not sure what chance those small shrubs have of avoiding being mown down by cars and wagons :hmm:
Probably lack of water and fags ends will get them first
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Not sure what chance those small shrubs have of avoiding being mown down by cars and wagons :hmm:
Probably lack of water and fags ends will get them first
I'd give the plants less than a fortnight after which the planters will look completely scruffy and I reckon the planters are potentially a hazard for drivers. Is the plan is that the pedestrianised area will be open to traffic in the morning till 1200 ??? . I realise that there are consequently no pavements so cars will be parked front in towards the shops leaving little space to get into the shops or move between them as in the second pic above. Also what happens to parked cars after the deadline?
Tony
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Some businesses. e.g. tavernas, don't like cars parked right outside and will 'park' push bikes outside at intervals to allow easy access but prevent parking. Others, inc. 'supermarkets', like customers to be able to park as close as possible. With a little thought and planning... There again, what's a taverna one year could be a shop the next.
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Bye 'eck, things don't arf grow quick out 'ere!
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_11_05_15_2_02_55.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_11_05_15_2_03_16.jpeg)
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Plants are getting a good watering - apparently it's bouncing it down in Skala, hail stones the size of peas. Water gushing down the channels in the yellow slabs separating 'road' from 'path', largely by-passing the drains.
Bit grey but still dry in Poros :)
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...Water gushing down the channels in the yellow slabs separating 'road' from 'path', largely by-passing the drains...
:lol: Sorry, shouldn't laugh really!
Tony
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Amazing what a drop of rain can do. The little trees weren't there before the rain:
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_11_05_15_11_02_01.jpeg)
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Amazing what a drop of rain can do. The little trees weren't there before the rain:
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_11_05_15_11_02_01.jpeg)
Unfortunately, it looks like the traffic cone has given up the ghost and keeled over and died.
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As it relates to Skala - Is it true that El Greco/Uncle Ted's isn't opening this year?
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Yes, unfortunately El Greco closed at the end of last season and will not be opening again as far as I know. Such a pity as it was one of our favourites.
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Shame - hope Ted find something else to do other than taking pictures. Unless he doesn't want to :unsure:
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Yes, unfortunately El Greco is not opening this year. Other changes - Kaliva Taverna, in the side street opposite Greekstones is moving to the parade of empty shops opposite Hotel Skala - next door to where the pharmacy used to be, and the Old Village restaurant is supposed to be opening another business where Kaliva was.
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The new business at the old Kaliva position is called Meze Meze...
Having walked the new Main Street (in sensible shoes) Mrs B twice caught her toes on protruding cobbles so we decided on zig zagging up and down the side streets which are now worse than ever with potholes etc. Hopefully some cash can be found to improve these to allow tourists to visit (IMO) some of the better businesses in Skala.
Having spoken to Marinos from Kaliva he is more than happy to take his chances at the new location in terms of rent (my favourite bugbear) and the fact that he now has excellent views over the beach and will catch a lot of passing trade from the Roman Villa, the lookout point and those visiting Akri Bar.
On a darker note (sorry if it's already been mentioned on GG) but I hear that Dino From Panorama has died over the winter. RIP. A very nice man.
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Thank you for the updates.
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Irrigation pipes installed earlier today:
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_14_05_15_2_15_57.jpeg)
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Hmm, adds to the overall "design"/another tripping potential doesn't it.
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Chap came along today and removed some of the trip hazards, those curios 3cm high squares dotted about, as seen next to the dead traffic cone in this pic (http://goinggreek.info/index.php?topic=112.msg7560#msg7560).
Planter areas being put to good use by the local cats, who seem to view them as spacious litter trays - one was doing a dump outside one of the tavernas last night. Mind you, one of the customers had been taking scraps out for them.
Work on paving the road at the end of the square outside Panorama almost complete.
Still not sure the money couldn't have been put to better use but, must admit, I'm getting to like the new cobbles more as time goes on. Just have to see what chaos ensues if/when the street is pedestrianised... tourists will want to park somewhere. Poros?
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Work on paving the road at the end of the square outside Panorama almost complete.
Maybe a bit of urgency about this as the Union of the Ionian Islands with Greece will be celebrated as usual in Skala tomorrow, starting at 11:00 with a service in the church of Agios Gerasimos (main crossroads) followed by a ceremonious stroll down to the main square around 12:00. Thereafter live music and dancing commencing around 12:30.
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Bloke in a cherry picker came round today, painting the tops of the lamp posts
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(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_21_05_15_3_24_04.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_21_05_15_3_24_28.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_21_05_15_3_24_46.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_21_05_15_3_25_09.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_21_05_15_3_25_28.jpeg)
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Great pics, Maik! The street looks quite nice and Skala spruced up for the season. Don't give the trees much hope though!
Tony
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Yeah, good pics Maik. I see from the first two that the traffic cone has recovered and able to take part in the parade.
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The irrigation system seems to be in place but I haven't seen any sign of it working, once or twice a day the beds get watered via fire wagon
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_31_05_15_11_03_09.jpeg)
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You just couldnt make it up, could you. :lol:
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The irrigation system seems to be in place but I haven't seen any sign of it working, once or twice a day the beds get watered via fire wagon
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_31_05_15_11_03_09.jpeg)
The local pooches won't be happy when they see some dude stepping in on their patch !
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Looking likely that pedestrianisation of the high street will be taking effect imminently.
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Police car with two uniformed police officers drove up and down the High Street this eve, officers looked really upset at having to be there instead of at their Charm School class. Customer who'd temporarily parked outside our office was told to move on.
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_09_06_15_11_17_57.jpeg)
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_09_06_15_11_16_24.jpeg)
Rough translation of Πεζοδρομος Ωρες Τροφοδοσιας Καταστηματων 06:00 - 12:00
Sidewalk. Delivery times to food service outlets 06:00 - 12:00
Signs in Greek only... could be great fun this summer :iroll:
Earlier in the day a labourer turned up in a van, looked like he was laying new irrigation pipes but he could've been nicking plants :dunno:
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The obvious solution: if you can't park on the road... park on the pavement:
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/1_11_06_15_12_46_06.jpeg)
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Heard that all those cars, and those parked on the bend by the 'new' periptero on the square, received parking tickets. Very few cars up and down the main street today and none parked on the pavement this eve. And no, the street certainly wasn't jam packed solid with pedestrians this evening... maybe the new 'Apostolata' bus service will encourage people into town but a number of parking spaces have been lost and no alternative spaces provided.
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Always thought the raised "wasteland " area next to the IKA doctors could have been used as a parking area with a little work....( ramp up/down ). Only 100 metres walk into town and would help those businesses situated in both side roads heading onto the Main Street. May also encourage others to open businesses where Bozos Kebab House was and where the new car hire place is.
I wonder if the "abbatoir" car park will now get some useage?
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I wonder if the "abbatoir" car park will now get some useage?
Er... not sure I know where that is and a bit gruesomely what it is/was :blink:
Tony
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What is the new Apostalata Bus Service?
I thought the hotel always had one.
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Three piece tribute band?
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Sorry Tony, the Abbatoir is the "affectionate" name for the set of buildings opposite Hotel Skala where Pantheon and the Pharmacy used to be and where Kaliva has recently moved to. Parking there for about 15/20 cars ...... If parked correctly.
I think it was named accordingly for its grey colour and nondescript shape just after it was finished.
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What is the new Apostalata Bus Service? I thought the hotel always had one.
:yiasou: Welcome to GGi, Sandrap
Yes, Apostolata runs its own minibus from the hotel to Skala and back. As does Asteris, San Giorgio... Apostolata now appears on the KTEL bus timetable (http://goinggreek.info/index.php?topic=1464) which suggests a KTEL service running out from Skala as far as the hotel.
If that's the case I can't see the taxi drivers being too happy about it, could be more fun and games. We'll see.
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Sorry Tony, the Abbatoir is the "affectionate" name for the set of buildings opposite Hotel Skala where Pantheon and the Pharmacy used to be and where Kaliva has recently moved to. Parking there for about 15/20 cars ...... If parked correctly.
I think it was named accordingly for its grey colour and nondescript shape just after it was finished.
Wouldn't have thought it would hold that many but whatever. The owner has never been keen on casual parking and, if I recall, vehicular access was blocked when all the units were empty. Can't see him offering free parking but maybe he'll try renting out parking spaces as he's not making much from renting out the units. Or maybe 'out of town' shopping will become more popular in Skala if parking is available with it.
:dunno:
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Three piece tribute band?
Abba toir...
:doh: :oki: :iroll:
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Sorry Tony, the Abbatoir is the "affectionate" name for the set of buildings opposite Hotel Skala where Pantheon and the Pharmacy used to be and where Kaliva has recently moved to. Parking there for about 15/20 cars ...... If parked correctly.
I think it was named accordingly for its grey colour and nondescript shape just after it was finished.
Thanks APB - I feel suitably enlightened - and relieved!
Tony
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Three piece tribute band?
Abba toir...
:doh: :oki: :iroll:
Definitely :oki:
Tony
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Ah yes, a monsieur and two mademoiselles. Think I saw them on Britain's Got Talent. Apt name as they slaughtered the song. But maybe Waterloo wasn't the best choice.
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A-ha!!! The new, improved, Katelios-Skala-Poros bus service (http://goinggreek.info/index.php?topic=1464.msg8232#msg8232) could be in response to the lack of parking spaces now available in Skala? Could make it a lot easier for people to move around by public transport in the evenings - wonder how the cabbies and hotel bars will like that?
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Just a thought.... I wonder how the pedestrianisation of the Main St and Square will affect the annual " look at my expensive car" parade which normally takes place around this time? ;)
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Hi all. Been reading with interest/horror of the authorities attempts to turn a 'real' village into a dysfunctional Rockery. We've been coming to Skala for 16 years and a great part of the charm was observing the buzz of activity on the Main Street as a working community went about its daily business.
We arrive on Thursday 23rd at about 4 in the afternoon staying at Casa d'ionio right on the Main St, with a jeep load of heavy luggage. With the restrictions now in force, will we be able to drive to the accommodation to unload, or will we have to park some way away ( God knows where) and haul the lot round to the Casa?
As a postscript - so sorry to hear the news about Dino. We stayed at Panorama last year and he was one of the nicest guys you could hope to meet. A true character and a great loss to the village.
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:yiasou:
The wording in the (small) signs is in Greek only but, as I understand it, the main street is pedestrianised. Period. Delivery vehicles are allowed between 06:00-12:00.
Mind you, "laws are made to be broken" (famous Greek saying) and it doesn't stop all manner of vehicles up to twelve noon. After that it gets a bit dicey. A woman who'd parked near the 'new' periptero came in the other day with a 40€ parking ticket and asked us what it was and what to do with it.
"At your own risk" might be appropriate.
Getting quite accustomed to the Chinese cobbles but "dysfunctional rockery"... wish I'd thought of that!
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Thanks Maik. 40 euros or a hernia - hmm- I'll give it some thought on the plane....
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Just a thought.... I wonder how the pedestrianisation of the Main St and Square will affect the annual " look at my expensive car" parade which normally takes place around this time? ;)
I understand from social media that this years "parade" will commence in the next day or so.
I'm sure the local police will take extreme pleasure in ticketing any Lambo or Ferrari parading up and down the main st although the 40 euro fine will be small beans to the vehicle owners and worth it to allow such ego boosting.
IMO parading these vehicles during times of austerity is a slap in the face of those suffering hardship at this time, but that's just my opinion. Here's hoping the cobbles do a good job on my behalf.
;)
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parading these vehicles during times of austerity is a slap in the face of those suffering hardship at this time
Yep, incredible insensitivity.