The municipality of Polygyros, in the northern Greek region of Chalkidiki, launched an operation early in the morning to clear public beach space occupied by permanently fixed sun loungers and umbrellas.

Municipal workers, backed by a lorry, two agricultural vehicles and an excavator, removed 100 umbrellas and sun loungers that had been installed, cemented into the sand and padlocked in place on Gerakini beach. Deputy Mayor Vasilis Fardogiannis was present for the operation.

The council had previously issued a notice asking residents and holidaymakers to remove any umbrellas, loungers or other equipment left permanently on the shore. Several people ignored the request, prompting crews to carry out the removal themselves.

“This is not a confrontation with anyone. It is a straightforward step to protect public space and enforce rules that apply to everyone. The council will continue carrying out checks and interventions wherever needed, so that our coastline stays clean, open and accessible to residents and visitors alike,” Fardogiannis said.

According to Greece’s State Property Service, which oversees public coastal land, umbrellas and loungers removed under this kind of operation are classified as waste. The confiscated items were taken to a recycling facility.