The modernization of the former GSP stadium in Nicosia is almost complete.
According to the capital's municipality, the project is expected to be commissioned by the end of this year.
The mayor's office noted that it will become the new jewel of the city, radically changing its image. The deputy mayor of the municipality, Chrysanthos Fakas, described the project as one of the most important for Nicosia. He emphasized that the construction company tried to preserve all the historical elements as much as possible. One of them was the giant clock, which was restored and returned to its original place.
We would like to remind you that very soon a modern public space will appear in place of the old stadium.
Thanks to the works carried out, the residents and guests of Nicosia will have at their disposal new restaurants, cafes, a children's playground and shops where they can walk, drink coffee, eat and shop.
It should be mentioned that the works on the large-scale project started in November 2021. However, it was postponed several times. First because of the coronavirus pandemic, then because of disruptions in the supply of construction materials. The original plan was to deliver the facility within 24 months of starting work. However, the deadline has been postponed by one year.
It should be noted that the works are being carried out in the area between Grigori Afxentiou, Evagorou and Vasileos Pavlou streets, east of the Ministry of Finance building in Nicosia.
After a major upgrade of the GSP Stadium, the centerpiece of the stadium will be an urban plaza with an open-air amphitheater where film screenings will be held. For the convenience of visitors, the project includes two underground car parks with 554 parking spaces, including 33 for the disabled, 28 for persons with reduced mobility and 12 for electric vehicles.
The project has a budget of over 20 million euros and includes not only the reconstruction of the stadium, but also its maintenance by the development company for the next 10 years. The money for the project has been allocated from the EU Cohesion Fund, the state budget and the Nicosia municipality, as part of the region's development program for 2021-2027.
The new park is expected to be a link between Makarios Avenue, Stasikratous Street and Liberty Square. This will be realized through modern sidewalks and convenient pedestrian routes. Interestingly, shop owners in the area have so far expressed some concern about the changes in traffic and the possible change in the flow of customers to neighboring streets. It must be said that despite the skepticism of some citizens, the project promises to become a key element in the development of Nicosia, attracting the attention of both locals and tourists.