Nicosia is set to undergo its most significant transformation of urban green infrastructure in recent years. The municipality has unveiled an ambitious redevelopment project for the Pedieos Linear Park, which includes the creation of new sports facilities, playgrounds, an artificial lake, dozens of infrastructure upgrades, and extensive landscaping works.
Stretching 11.8 kilometers through Nicosia, Strovolos, and Lakatamia, the park is considered one of the capital’s most important recreational areas. Once completed, it is expected to become the largest ecological and recreational space in the metropolitan region, combining leisure, sports, environmental protection, and sustainable development.
More Than €30 Million for the Capital’s Main Green Corridor
According to updated estimates, the cost of the project has risen significantly compared to the original projections. While the redevelopment was initially expected to cost around €22 million excluding VAT in 2022, the total investment is now expected to exceed €30 million. A total of €1.356 million excluding VAT has been allocated solely for project design and technical supervision.
The redevelopment will be financed through the European Union’s THALIA 2021–2027 program. Eighty-five percent of the funding will come from European funds, while the remaining 15% will be provided by the municipalities of Nicosia, Strovolos, and Lakatamia.
The project forms part of the Integrated Territorial Development Strategy for Greater Nicosia and is regarded as one of the key sustainable development initiatives for the Cypriot capital.
New Sports Facilities, Playgrounds, and an Artificial Lake
Once completed, the park will be transformed dramatically. The project includes four new outdoor sports facilities, two dedicated board-game areas, and 11 modern playgrounds.
One of the most distinctive features will be an artificial lake, designed not only to enhance the park’s appearance but also to improve its ecological value.
Greening and landscaping play a central role in the redevelopment, with 190,000 m² allocated for planting and environmental enhancement, significantly increasing the amount of greenery within the urban environment.
To improve connectivity throughout the park, 14 new pedestrian bridges will be constructed, making it easier to move between different sections of the park and surrounding neighborhoods.
Ecological Restoration of the Pedieos River
The project extends far beyond conventional urban beautification. One of its primary objectives is the ecological restoration of the Pedieos River and its surrounding natural habitats.
The program includes measures to protect local flora and fauna, strengthen biodiversity, and restore natural water flows. Particular attention is being paid to preparing the area for extreme weather events, which are becoming increasingly relevant for Cyprus as a result of climate change.
The redevelopment incorporates solutions for stormwater management, irrigation system modernization, and improved resilience against droughts and flooding.
Additional plans include the expansion of cycling and pedestrian infrastructure, the creation of organic farming areas and therapeutic gardens, the installation of renewable-energy-powered facilities, and the development of new public gathering spaces.
Sports infrastructure will also be significantly expanded. The park will feature five new courts for basketball, volleyball, beach volleyball, padel, and tennis, four outdoor sports complexes, a modern adventure park for climbing and parkour activities, and a new skate park.
Children will benefit from 11 newly equipped playgrounds.
Cycling enthusiasts will gain access to eight new bicycle centers and two bike parks, while an existing facility will be upgraded. A park-and-ride parking area and electric vehicle charging stations are also planned.
An important environmental component of the project includes eight dedicated pollinator zones with habitats for bees and butterflies, modern recycling stations every 400 meters, and an energy-efficient lighting system installed at 50-meter intervals throughout the park.
To improve visitor comfort, 12 new public restrooms will be built, while two existing facilities will be renovated. The plans also include a new dog park and upgraded pet area, two board-game spaces, three energy-themed play zones, and an outdoor venue for art exhibitions.
New information points and modern urban furniture, including benches, will be installed throughout the park. Additional parking areas with permeable surfaces will also be created.
For safety purposes, dedicated emergency access points and a new emergency management center will be established.
The Pedieos Linear Park will also become one of the most technologically advanced public spaces in Cyprus. The project includes the installation of 10.8 kilometers of fiber-optic infrastructure, 500 smart sensors, and early-warning systems for fires, floods, and other emergencies.
An automated irrigation system will monitor soil and air moisture levels to ensure the efficient use of water resources.
Implementation Will Take Place in Two Phases
The scale of the redevelopment has required the project to be divided into two construction phases.
The first phase will cover the Nicosia Public Garden, Prodromou Park, Agioi Omologites, parts of Strovolos, and areas within Lakatamia. The implementation period for this phase is estimated at 43 months.
The second phase will be carried out at a later stage and will include the Presidential Palace area, Athalassas Avenue, additional sections of Strovolos, Agios Vasileios, Eleones, Agios Mamas, Magli Lake, the Ioannis Kapodistrias area, Lakatamia B, and Anthoupoli A.
Funding for the second phase is expected to come from the next European Union programming period covering 2028–2034.
A New Green Symbol of Nicosia
The project’s designers believe that the renovated Pedieos Park will become the capital’s primary green corridor and a foundation for the future development of Nicosia, Strovolos, and Lakatamia.
Today, the Pedieos Linear Park is already one of the most popular destinations in Cyprus for walking, running, and cycling. Following the redevelopment, its importance is expected to increase significantly.
The new infrastructure will help connect residential neighborhoods, create additional recreational spaces, and improve environmental conditions throughout the metropolitan area.
As Cyprus continues to pursue sustainable urban development and expand its green spaces, the Pedieos project is being viewed as a model of modern urban transformation and one of the country’s most significant environmental initiatives of the coming decade.