In Nicosia, the implementation of a large-scale project for a new capital park, which will appear in the western part of the city on the territory of the former State Fair, is progressing at an accelerated pace. This was announced on Thursday, February 12, by Nicosia Mayor Charalambos Prountzos. According to him, the future park will become the largest in Cyprus and will be approximately 5 times larger than the biggest green space currently existing on the island.
Prountzos called the project strategic for the capital, emphasizing that the creation of a large green area is not simply an improvement measure but a crucial condition for the health of residents and the sustainable development of the city.
Coordination of authorities and further decisions
It is expected that in March a tripartite committee with the participation of the government, the Municipality of Nicosia, and the Technical Chamber (ETEK) will convene for the second time to make further decisions on the project. The meeting will agree on the next stages of implementation and financial issues.
According to the mayor, the feasibility study of the project has already been completed, opening the way to the practical phase of park creation. An assessment of the cost of priority works has been prepared, including restoration of the territory, demolition of old structures, and elimination of pollution sources. The required financing is awaiting approval.
Architectural competition and environmental sustainability
An architectural competition for the development of the landscape concept of the future park will be announced in cooperation with ETEK. During March, the completion of a comprehensive study by the Department of Public Works evaluating the pavilions that the municipality proposes to preserve is also expected.
Special attention is being given to project sustainability. The Center of Excellence at the University of Cyprus has completed an analysis of the possibility of covering energy needs through green energy using the roofs of pavilions that will remain on the site. This will reduce operating costs and make the park environmentally neutral.
Urban planning changes and a museum of contemporary art
Documents have already been submitted to the Land Department for revision of the local development plan with the official inclusion of the new park as a project of vital importance. At the same time, a proposal to connect Iroon Avenue in Engomi with Makedonias Avenue has been rejected.
At the same time, an initiative by the Ministry of Culture to create a Museum of Contemporary Art in one of the pavilions is being considered. A final decision on this issue is expected from the Council of Ministers. If approved, the park will receive not only a recreational but also a cultural function, which will strengthen the tourist attractiveness of the capital.
Flood protection and infrastructure development
In cooperation with the municipality, the Water Development Department is ready to undertake the implementation of a project to create lakes for rainwater retention on the exhibition grounds and under the area of the old Nicosia airport. This project has been discussed for decades and is of key importance for protecting the areas of Engomi and Agios Dometios from flooding. The cost estimate is currently being updated and funding is expected to be included in the state budget.
Authorities are also conducting dialogue with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Invest Cyprus agency regarding temporary use and improvement of the territory until the full launch of the project.
Before the announcement of the architectural competition, a large-scale public consultation is planned. The municipality intends to ensure transparency of the process and take residents’ opinions into account. A recent meeting of the Parliamentary Committee on Internal Affairs confirmed broad support for the initiative.
According to the mayor, Nicosia is opening a new chapter of development, focusing on ecology, the health of citizens, and a sustainable future. The creation of the largest park in Cyprus could become one of the most significant infrastructure projects of the capital in recent decades and change the city’s appearance for years to come.