One of the largest social infrastructure projects launched in recent years is getting underway in Ayia Napa. The municipality has announced a tender for the construction of a Multifunctional Social Support Centre and a modern Autism Centre, which will become an important social facility not only for the free areas of Famagusta but for Cyprus as a whole.
According to the tender documents, construction is expected to cost €4.35 million excluding VAT. The project will be jointly financed through state funding and the budget of Ayia Napa Municipality. Construction companies may submit applications through the government's e-procurement system until 12:00 on 7 August.
What the new centre will include
The project provides for the construction of a modern complex on Stadiou Street in Ayia Napa. The centre will consist of two separate 2-storey buildings, each serving a different purpose:
- Block A will house a day care, education and social integration centre. It will provide educational programmes, developmental activities, therapy and social inclusion initiatives for children and adults with autism spectrum disorders.
- Block B will be intended for permanent and temporary accommodation. It will include residential facilities for people requiring round-the-clock support, as well as those undergoing short-term rehabilitation or receiving temporary accommodation services.
The development of specialised centres of this kind forms part of Cyprus' national policy to create a more inclusive environment and expand the system of social support available to families caring for children and adults with developmental needs.
Project to feature modern infrastructure
All buildings will be constructed with reinforced concrete frames using modern energy-efficient building technologies. The exterior walls will be made of ceramic brick with a façade insulation system, while the internal partitions will use dry construction methods. Suspended plasterboard ceilings are planned for almost all rooms. In addition to the main buildings, the project includes:
- underground and covered parking with storage areas;
- vehicle access routes and ramps;
- outdoor parking spaces;
- walking paths;
- courtyards for sports and recreation;
- covered playgrounds;
- seating areas with benches;
- landscaping throughout the site.
Particular attention has been paid to accessibility. All buildings and the surrounding grounds will be fully adapted for people with reduced mobility. A public green area will also be created in front of the complex, featuring landscaping, outdoor lighting, utility networks, ornamental planting and pedestrian paths. The project also includes the construction of a new Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC) substation to ensure a reliable power supply for the facility.
Construction expected to be completed within 24 months
Under the terms of the tender, the contractor must complete the construction work in full and hand over the facility for operation within 24 months. Before the complex is delivered, all of its engineering systems will be tested, including:
- water supply;
- sewerage;
- electricity supply;
- air-conditioning and ventilation systems;
- mechanical equipment;
- gas installations and other utilities.
The contractor must carry out all testing and commissioning of the utility systems at its own expense before the facility is officially accepted. Once completed, the centre will become one of the most modern social institutions of its kind in Cyprus.
The authorities expect the new complex to significantly expand access to specialised support for people with autism by providing high-quality facilities for education, rehabilitation, accommodation and social integration. At the same time, the project will make another major contribution to the development of Ayia Napa's social infrastructure and construction sector, as the municipality continues to implement new public facilities and urban development projects.