A British developer's controversial scheme to turn a good portion of eastern Crete's pristine landscape into a massive tourism complex seems to have been pooh-poohed by the new Environment Ministry.

 Minister Tina Birbili said the government has indicated it is unlikely to approve the heavily-opposed plan, known as the Cavo Sidero project, even though a final decision could take some time.

She said the government is taking into account a decision last year by the Council of State, Greece's highest administrative court, to halt the scheme. But she said a final decision would not be reached until the government has reviewed the present zoning plan for tourist resorts.

The project, comprising five holiday villages, a string of luxury hotels and three golf courses, would severely damage the environment, according to the powerful opposition groups.