Nicosia, Cyprus. Three environmental organisations accused the government of sidestepping legally binding conditions for the protection of the Akamas peninsula, warning that planned works on a key road risk further environmental damage.
Claims over delayed implementation of conditions
In a joint statement on Wednesday, Terra Cypria, BirdLife Cyprus and the Cyprus Federation of Environmental Organisations said the agriculture ministry was effectively delaying the implementation of “legally binding and essential terms” linked to the sustainable development plan for the Akamas National Forest Park.
Concerns over Audit Office recommendations and proposed works
The organisations raised concerns about the ministry’s response to recent recommendations by the Audit Office regarding the road linking the Baths of Aphrodite with Fontana Amorosa.
They said the ministry was attempting to justify its failure to enforce conditions in place since 2021, while also promoting a request by the Department of Forests for further widening works on the road.
Vehicle access and environmental approvals
According to the statement, the Audit Office expressed “serious concern” about the current situation, particularly the continued “uncontrolled and dangerous use” of the road by private vehicles, including unsuitable small cars and quad bikes.
The groups said such use violates environmental approvals that define what types of vehicles are permitted in the area.
Recommendations for controlled access
The organisations pointed to recommendations for the “immediate implementation of controlled access”, including barriers and restrictions allowing only authorised vehicles, as well as better information for visitors about safety risks.
Dispute over ministry position and approval procedures
The groups criticised the ministry’s view that regulating private vehicle access alone is insufficient, saying a focus on infrastructure upgrades risks undermining the original environmental framework.
They also objected to statements suggesting road improvement works could begin imminently, arguing this implies environmental approval procedures are being treated as a formality.
“The result appears to have been predetermined,” they said, adding that no proper ecological assessment has been submitted for the proposed works.
What measures do you think should be prioritised to protect the Akamas peninsula while managing visitor access?
