Sustainable Development Policies

11.2.1

Public Access to University Buildings and Green Spaces

1. Purpose

The purpose of this Policy is to formalize the University of Thessaly’s commitment to maintaining open, safe, and equitable public access to its buildings, grounds, and green spaces, in accordance with its status as a public higher education institution under Law 4485/2017. The University recognizes that its campuses are both academic environments and community assets that contribute to public life, education, culture, and sustainability.

2. Scope

This Policy applies to all University-owned or managed properties, including academic buildings, administrative offices, libraries, laboratories, cultural facilities, student residences, sports complexes, and outdoor green spaces in all cities where the University operates. It covers physical access, visitor management, event hosting, and use of outdoor areas by the general public.

3. Legal and Institutional Context

As a public legal entity governed by Law 4485/2017, the University of Thessaly ensures that its premises are open to the community and that public access is protected by law. The University acts in compliance with the Greek Constitution (Article 5A), Law 4067/2012 (Article 26) on accessibility of public buildings, Law 4412/2016 on the management of public assets, Ministerial Decree ΥΠΕΝ/ΔΕΣΕΔΠ/65807/699/2018 on universal access to open public spaces, and the University’s Environmental Sustainability and Accessibility Policies.

4. Policy Statement

1. All University of Thessaly buildings, open spaces, and green areas are accessible to the general public, except in cases where access restrictions are necessary for safety, security, or research integrity.
   2. The University promotes the use of its campuses as open civic and cultural environments, encouraging public engagement in educational, artistic, and environmental initiatives.
   3. Outdoor areas, including courtyards, gardens, and walkways, are open for pedestrian circulation and recreational use during daylight hours.
   4. Academic buildings, libraries, and cultural venues remain accessible to the public under established hours and supervised entry conditions.
   5. Public access shall respect the University’s academic mission, property integrity, and health and safety regulations.
   6. The University may regulate or temporarily restrict access for maintenance, events, or emergencies, in accordance with safety protocols.
   7. Public accessibility features shall comply with Article 26 of Law 4067/2012 and the principles of universal design.
   8. The University shall promote environmental stewardship of its public green spaces, maintaining biodiversity and sustainable use for community benefit.
   9. Any commercial use of public spaces shall require formal approval by the University Council and must serve the educational or social mission of the institution.

5. Implementation and Responsibilities

– The Rector and the Director of Technical Services oversee public access management and compliance with legal standards.
– Technical Services maintain open space conditions and ensures safety and accessibility.
– The Security and Safety Office supervises access control, visitor registration, and emergency response.

6. Monitoring and Review

The University shall conduct an annual audit of public access arrangements, including accessibility, safety, and community engagement measures. This Policy shall be reviewed every three (3) years or earlier if required by legal or operational changes.

7. Related Documents / References

Greek Constitution, Article 5A;
Law 4485/2017 (Framework for Higher Education);
Law 4067/2012, Article 26 (Building Accessibility and Universal Design);
Law 4412/2016 (Public Property Management);
Ministerial Decree ΥΠΕΝ/ΔΕΣΕΔΠ/65807/699/2018;