Nicosia: More than 80 projects with a total cost exceeding £1 billion, extending from the urban fabric of Nicosia to the suburban communities of the city, were announced by President Nikos Christodoulides during an event at the Nicosia Municipal Theatre, as part of his tour of municipalities and communities across Cyprus.
According to Cyprus News Agency, President Christodoulides, accompanied by Ministers, Deputy Ministers, and senior officials, presented a wide range of interventions covering social policy, health, education, culture, transportation, green development, and support for youth and families. The President emphasized decentralization, social cohesion, and balanced regional development as core elements of his administration, stating that Nicosia deserves bold interventions and ambitious planning.
The President highlighted Nicosia’s status as the last divided capital in Europe, and noted that guided tours of the green line are now provided for visiting leaders to understand the reality of occupation. The projects aim to improve daily life for residents in the city and district of Nicosia.
In the social welfare and health sectors, President Christodoulides announced projects such as a modern Day Care Center for People with Disabilities and two independent living residences for individuals with autism, funded by a £2 million donation from Eurobank. Other initiatives include the Multipurpose Center of Engomi and the Aglantzia Health Center.
Urban redevelopment projects were also discussed, focusing on the strategic development of the State Fair area and the SOPAZ area. A committee will be established to assess the feasibility of these projects. The “Smart City” project, co-financed by the Cohesion Policy Programme “Thaleia 2021-2027,” aims to modernize digital infrastructure.
Transportation and traffic management projects include the Nicosia Ring Road and a comprehensive bicycle network. Flood protection projects are underway in four critical areas, with completion expected between 2025 and 2026.
Significant investments in culture and tourism include the New Archaeological Museum of Cyprus, and in education, 25 new all-day schools and 380 student housing units. In sports, upgrades to the Nicosia Municipal Swimming Pool and the Makarios Sports Center are progressing.
Regarding housing, state grants and the “ktiZO” scheme are being implemented. Some projects started under the previous administration, contributing to economic growth and highlighting Nicosia’s development prospects.
The President stressed the importance of cooperation with local authorities and emphasized the need for collective effort to ensure timely project completion. Finance Minister Makis Keravnos highlighted the necessity of private investment, while Interior Minister Konstantinos Ioannou noted increased budgets for municipalities and communities.
Nicosia Mayor Charalambos Prountzos acknowledged achievements in local government reform but cited ongoing challenges due to the city’s division. He called for state support to enhance Nicosia’s role and development potential.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974, following a Turkish invasion. Efforts for a peaceful resolution have yet to succeed, impacting Nicosia’s geography and economy.