Protaras, Cyprus. The Interior Ministry ordered the immediate removal of unauthorised structures on a state-owned coastal plot in Protaras, giving the Famagusta District Administration a 24-hour deadline to carry out demolition works and restore legality. The ministry also moved to clarify enforcement responsibilities between state and local authorities.
Structures cited in ministry directive
The directive concerns a massage business, a kiosk and associated structures operating within a beach protection zone on land leased to the Paralimni–Deryneia municipality for an annual rent of €5,000. According to official correspondence, the lease permits only use as a public parking area and prohibits any permanent construction or commercial activity.
Order and stated legal basis
In its most recent letter, the Interior Minister instructed local authorities “to proceed without delay with the necessary actions for the immediate demolition and removal of the illegal structure, within 24 hours of receipt of this letter.” The ministry said responsibility for enforcement lies with the district officer under the beach protection law, specifically in cases involving constructions within protected coastal zones.
Enforcement powers and need for court order
The ministry said the structures fall within the legal interpretation of “construction,” which it said triggers immediate removal powers without the need for a court order.
Jurisdiction dispute and earlier correspondence
The minister’s instruction follows what ministry records describe as a prolonged administrative impasse spanning several years. Documentation published in earlier correspondence and cited in investigative reporting by Politis said the dispute over jurisdiction dates back to 2024.
Famagusta EOA initially stated in a letter dated May 13, 2024 that enforcement fell under the auspices of Paralimni municipality under the ‘streets and buildings regulation bill’. In a later letter dated December 5, 2024, it shifted position, stating that responsibility had passed to the Famagusta EOA following reforms.
What impact do you think clearer enforcement responsibilities between state and local authorities would have on similar cases?