The transformation of the old Larnaca hospital into a new municipal building has once again been postponed. Although the staff of the State Health Services Organization (OKYPY) have already relocated, the Sanitation Service employees still occupy part of the ground floor, preventing renovation works from beginning. Originally, they were supposed to vacate the premises by the end of 2022, but this has yet to happen.
Larnaca Mayor Andreas Vyras emphasized that the municipality is in a “state of limbo” as there is still no clarity on when the project will start. The mayor is pressing the responsible authorities and, at the same time, searching for alternative premises to relocate the Sanitation Service — both within the city and the wider district.
Funding Approved, but Time Is Running Out
The delay in vacating the building has jeopardized not only the timeline of the reconstruction, but also the previously awarded construction tender. The contractor’s proposal was approved almost a year ago, yet ongoing postponements may render it invalid.
Nevertheless, the municipality assures that project funding is secured — a loan has been obtained through the Ministry of Finance, with the support of the European Investment Bank.
What the New Municipal Building Will Look Like
The old hospital, built in the 1930s, is recognized as an architectural heritage site. The project envisions a careful restoration of its historic exterior, including the facades, windows, staircases, floors, and other interior elements.
The plan also includes both interior and exterior modifications: the removal of later additions, construction of a covered two-storey passage connecting the wings, installation of elevators and new staircases. The surrounding area will be landscaped, green zones and parking spaces will be created, the courtyard will be renovated, and a new fence installed.
The reconstruction is expected to take around two years from the start of works. The old hospital building is located on Grigori Afxentiou Avenue, in the very heart of Larnaca.
Why the Project Matters for the City Now
Since the early 2000s, Larnaca has been without a permanent municipal building. The old town hall on Kimon Square was demolished due to structural issues, and since then the city administration has been renting offices in a multi-storey building on the seafront. Moving the municipality into its own premises will not only reduce operating costs but also become a symbol of the city’s renewal.
Amid the rapid development of tourism infrastructure and the modernization of the urban environment, restoring the historic hospital as Larnaca’s new town hall represents an important step in strengthening cultural identity and enhancing the quality of urban life.