The Cyprus Department of Fisheries and Marine Research has launched a major project to modernise the Kato Pyrgos fishing shelter in the Nicosia area.
The initiative is funded by the European Union under the Maritime Affairs, Fisheries and Aquaculture Programme 2021-2027.
The main works to improve the marina include:
- Removal of part of the existing breakwater;
- Construction of a new breakwater approximately 100m north of the existing one;
- Extending the leeward side of the breakwater by 115m with a bend to the east;
- Relocating the harbour entrance;
- Create 4-metre passages on both sides of the entrance channel.
It is important to note that there will be no dredging in the port area.
The plan is to remove silt and sand from the seabed. The port is currently silting up regularly and needs to be dredged every 1.5-2 years. Each such operation costs the state between €400,000 and €500,000. The new project will eliminate the need for regular cleaning, ensure safe and free passage for fishing boats, reduce unpleasant odours and increase the attractiveness of the area, create new jobs, increase the number of visitors and improve conditions for fishermen.
The Cyprus Department of Fisheries and Marine Research also plans to increase the number of permanent berths for vessels from 16 to 30. There are also plans to create a berth for the marine and harbour police, about 20 metres of quay. No additional berths are required at this stage.
Approximately 10-15 people will be involved in the work.