The Cypriot authorities have decided to stop illegal construction work on Pyrgos beach in the Limassol area.
According to representatives of the Ministry of the Environment and Forestry, the work near the sea is damaging the local ecosystem. The officials called for an immediate halt to all construction activities, as the heavy machinery used has already led to the destruction of unique sand dunes that are protected within the beach protection zone. In addition, the developer has destroyed acacia trees and felled eucalyptus trees.
It is worth noting that at the beginning of November, local residents drew attention to the illegal construction on Pyrgos beach, which was damaging sand dunes that play a key role in the natural environment and are protected by the state. They contacted the relevant authorities to request an investigation. The investigation revealed that the companies carrying out excavation work in the area had not obtained the necessary permits. The Limassol municipality issued a decree for the immediate suspension of all work. The municipality has proposed that the beach be given the status of a state forest in order to increase the protection of the ecosystem.
According to preliminary data, the area affected by the developer's illegal actions was 0.6 km2. However, the real extent of the damage and the cost of possible restoration of the area have yet to be determined.
As a reminder, under the EU's Habitats Directive, five important dune types have been identified and 59 species of flora, including rare sand plants, have been recorded over the 25km stretch. Although the coastal area was declared a protected area in April 2023, it has not yet been granted State Forest Land status. The relevant Cypriot authorities are currently discussing additional control measures to prevent similar infringements in the future.