urban planning

What is the solution for low-cost housing?

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What is the solution for low-cost housing?

The cost of buying houses or apartments in Cyprus has become a big issue, especially in recent years. The level of residential rents has increased by around 20% in the last 2 years. Various proposals have been made to alleviate the problem, including increasing area ratio, abolishing minimum areas, and creating low-cost units. Immediate measures are needed to address the housing crisis, such as tax reductions for landlords who rent out apartments and implementing summary eviction procedures. Colleges and universities could also play a role in providing housing for students. The Housing Finance Corporation and Land Development Agency may not be able to effectively address the issue.

A week before vote, some reforms still unclear

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A week before vote, some reforms still unclear

The fact described in the text is that the interior minister is expected to issue decrees mandating that the final say on permits will rest with the technocrats in the district-level organizations, not the elected officials.

Casts of an island opens this weekend

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Casts of an island opens this weekend

Casts of an Island exhibition in Limassol features Cypriot contemporary art showcasing 120 works by 43 artists, with some pieces dating back to 2004. The exhibition will run until October 31 at the Carob Warehouse, which is being transformed into a cultural venue by the PSI Foundation.

Archaeological dig maps city scape of ancient Paphos

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Archaeological dig maps city scape of ancient Paphos

New evidence of the urban planning of ancient Nea Paphos was revealed during archaeological excavations carried out by Warsaw and Krakow universities. The excavation focused on uncovering the city’s road system remnants to confirm the hypothesized size of the residential blocks in Nea Paphos. Excavations revealed two perpendicular walls forming the corner of a room likely from the Hellenistic period, and remnants of two canals. Additionally, the mission processed ceramic and glass materials discovered in earlier excavation periods.

Parliament to amend legislation on hotel operations

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Parliament to amend legislation on hotel operations

Approximately 93% of local hotels have been rendered technically illegal due to recent legislative actions. The proposed amendment aims to address issues within the hotel industry, particularly concerning contracts with foreign tour operators and insurance companies. The amendment targets the transitional period during which hotels can operate without meeting basic law requirements. The proposed changes stipulate that hotels can operate without meeting requirements if architectural plans and necessary permissions are submitted by the end of 2024. This legislative move follows laws in 2019 that granted existing hotels a five-year grace period to comply with regulations. Deputy Minister Koumis attributed delays in license acquisition to the high number of expansions and announcements made by hotels in recent years. Koumis reassured that the proposed extension strengthens safety measures.

MPs furious over last-minute changes to local government

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MPs furious over last-minute changes to local government

Lawmakers are frustrated with the government for making last-minute changes to legislation related to the reform of local government. They have agreed to only two amendments for now, with the rest to be discussed after the local government elections on June 9. The changes include allowing District Self-Governance Organisations to approve their own budgets and the appointment of individuals to head local government services temporarily. Permit applications for land development will be transferred to the new District Self-Governance Organisations. Legislators refused to fast-track a bill suspending permit applications, citing potential negative impact on the economy. The new system will merge various local government authorities at the district level to streamline processes.

President reaffirms support for construction sector

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President reaffirms support for construction sector

President Nikos Christodoulides stated that the construction sector, supported by the Cyprus Property Developers Association (LBDA), plays a vital role in attracting investments, promoting entrepreneurship, and positioning Cyprus as an investment destination.

Larnaca port and marina must be concluded , “at all cost”

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Larnaca port and marina must be concluded , “at all cost”

Projects worth €100 million are planned in Larnaca in the coming years.

Grants scheme announced for Nicosia entrepreneurs

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Grants scheme announced for Nicosia entrepreneurs

The 3rd Call for Applications for the Grants Scheme to Support Entrepreneurial Activity within the Walls of Nicosia has been announced with a total budget of €2 million.

Local govt reform , ‘on the right track’

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Local govt reform , ‘on the right track’

Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou stated that local government reform in Cyprus is “on the right track.” He believes that most teething problems will be resolved by the end of June. Progress is going well regarding staffing and finding buildings for various authorities. There may be an adjustment period at the beginning of the transition. Complaints will be made to the police if any objectionable issues arise regarding voter registration. More than 3,500 objections have been submitted for June’s elections, with some voters registering themselves at unusual addresses.