Limassol, Cyprus. BirdLife Cyprus and Terra Cypria have renewed concerns over Lady’s Mile beach, calling on the British bases administration to publicly clarify how it ensures compliance with legal and environmental obligations for business operations in the area. The organisations said the summer season is especially sensitive because it coincides with the breeding season for sea turtles and bird species that use the coastal and wetland habitats.
Concerns over protected area
The organisations said Lady’s Mile is a protected area of high importance and warned that several activities have raised serious questions about its ecological protection.
They cited nighttime events, increased beach use during evening hours, and the presence of bright lighting and noise as matters of concern.
Infrastructure and water sports
BirdLife Cyprus and Terra Cypria also said that extensive and heavy infrastructure, including sunbeds, poses a risk to the area’s ecological integrity. They noted that, by law, sunbeds must be removed between 7pm and 7am.
They added that water sports also pose a risk to the protected area.
Calls for transparent regulation
The organisations said the administration has effectively enforced restrictions in the past by regulating which events could proceed.
They said this past practice shows that the relevant procedures for licensing and oversight exist and can be implemented when there is the necessary administrative will. However, they said an increasing deterioration in regulation has been observed over the past five years.
They are also calling on the Limassol and Kourion municipalities to establish a transparent regulatory framework.
Administration response
The British bases administration has said it recognises the challenge of reconciling recreational activities with the protection of Lady’s Mile.
It has previously stated that protecting the region’s natural environment and ensuring the safety of visitors and users of the area are among its top priorities.