Four detention wings, a medical unit, training facilities and sports facilities are included in the draft of the new penitentiary promoted by the Ministry of Justice in Agios Sozomenos. According to the presentation of the Ministry's budget for 2027, the new complex is planned with a capacity of at least 1,500 inmates, with the aim of dealing with overcrowding in the long term.
The Minister of Justice, Kostas Fytiris, described the design as a "development project", stating that the completion of the studies by the competent services is expected. The zoning has not been finalized, while the minister has pledged to present the planning to the affected municipalities, so that he can hear their views.
In the model presented by the minister before the Finance Committee, four detention wings are depicted, with the indications A, B, C and D, placed on either side of a central axis of facilities. The area includes the headquarters and the central administration, the reception and visiting area, as well as the training facilities, laboratories and rehabilitation programs.
The medical unit and the football field, which is also marked as a sports area, have a special place in the design. A Christian chapel and a prayer area for Muslims are also planned.
In terms of security, the draft includes a central entrance gate with security control, a security perimeter, walls and surveillance towers. Outside the wall, a parking area for staff and visitors is depicted, while inside there are areas for technical services and maintenance, tanks and public utility infrastructure.
For the new penitentiary, a provision of €1 million is recorded in the presentation. in the 2027 budget.
At the same time, the Ministry's planning for staffing and upgrading staff training includes the opening of prison guard recruitment to European citizens and the creation of incentives to attract suitable staff.
