Μake us preferred on GoogleTables and chairs placed illegally outdoors in public spaces by establishment owners are being removed across Athens in a drive by local authorities to improve accessibility. The Municipality of Athens said it was stepping up inspections in an effort to ensure public access. Authorities said the illegally placed furniture was obstructing public access, particularly for people with disabilities. Athens has one of the worst reputations in Europe for accessibility, largely due to inconsistent enforcement, lax regulation, failure to enforce penalties, and a licensing system that has allowed widespread encroachment on public space by businesses. “The free use of public space by citizens is a priority… and a matter of respect for pedestrians, and especially for people with disabilities,” said Deputy Athens Mayor for Municipal Police and Public Areas, Eleni Zontirou.