The official urban plan for Astakos was approved by the town council in February 1862. It was created by the second lieutenant Markos Botsaris, whose grandfather was a great hero of the liberation struggle. The plan alloted plots for private residences to people from the mountainous regions of western Greece and the Ionian islands. The new owners would receive their land for free provided they developed it within three years and would not pay any taxes for five years. Destitute families would also receive financial assistance. Local residents received the plan with enthusiasm, certain that the Ionian islanders would beautify their town in no time.