Nicosia: President of Cyprus Nikos Christodoulides inaugurated the revitalized space of the former GSP stadium in Nicosia, highlighting it as a symbol of environmental respect, social cohesion, and improved quality of life for citizens. Speaking at the ceremony, the President emphasized the government’s ongoing commitment to projects that harmonize functionality with aesthetic appeal, transforming neglected spaces into communal hubs.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the once-abandoned stadium has been transformed into a modern, accessible park, set to become a crucial green space within Nicosia. President Christodoulides noted that this rejuvenated space serves as a living testament to visionary planning, respecting history while embracing the future. With sustainability and human experience at its core, the park offers a sanctuary for recreation and social interaction, preserving the historical essence of a site integral to Cyprus’ cultural and sporting narrative since 1902.
Beyond the park’s unveiling, the President outlined broader governmental initiatives aimed at redefining urban landscapes across Cyprus. The administration is revising Local Plans for urban clusters in Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaca, and Paphos, with completion targeted within two years. Additionally, a strategic spatial framework, the ‘Plan for the Island,’ is being developed with technical assistance from the European Commission. This marks the first unified territorial strategy for Cyprus, integrating various sectoral strategies to support the nation’s ‘Vision 2035’ for sustainable development.
The £30 million project, co-funded by the European Union’s Cohesion Policy through the ‘THALEIA 2021-2027’ program, the Nicosia Municipality, and the state budget, exemplifies the benefits of EU collaboration, the President added. He expressed gratitude to EU Commissioners and local authorities for their support in fostering equitable growth. The revitalized GSP site now features an open-air amphitheater, multi-purpose halls, cafes, shops, underground parking linked to public transport, and a Citizen Service Center, developed following a public referendum among Nicosia residents.
As Cyprus prepares for its EU Council Presidency in 2026, President Christodoulides reaffirmed the nation’s dedication to advancing Cohesion Policy, ensuring it reflects real needs. This project, a cornerstone of urban renewal, symbolizes Nicosia’s resilience and aspiration for progress, promising a future as open and dynamic as the park itself. Further announcements on urban initiatives are anticipated on June 30, signaling continued momentum in Cyprus’ transformative journey.
Nicosia’s Mayor Charalambos Prountzos, who jointly unveiled a commemorative plaque, emphasized the significance of the day, stating that ‘we inaugurate a landmark project proving that with vision, planning, and collaboration, Nicosia can move forward, respecting the past while looking to the future.’ He envisioned ‘a multifunctional space filled daily with smiles, music, and creative activities, uniting people and respecting everyone’s needs.’