Nicosia, Cyprus. Cyprus has an opportunity to turn land development and construction from a traditional economic sector into a driver of sustainable, technologically advanced growth, Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou said.
Broader role for the sector
Speaking during a roundtable discussion with young entrepreneurs, entitled “Gen Z & Millennial Project – The new generation of business leaders roundtable discussion”, Ioannou said the sector must be viewed more broadly than as construction activity alone. He said it directly affects quality of life, economic competitiveness, investment attraction, job creation and the way cities and communities are shaped.
Need for a new model
Ioannou said Cyprus is being called on to redefine its land development and construction model so that it serves both current building activity and the needs of future generations. He added that the state must make better use of technology to create a more flexible, innovative, transparent and citizen- and business-friendly environment.
Future city planning
The minister said the cities of the next decade must be “smarter”, greener, more functional and more humane. He said this requires development that respects the natural environment, strengthens public infrastructure, promotes energy-efficient buildings, revitalises urban centres and encourages balanced growth between urban and rural areas.
Planning and reforms
Ioannou said future town planning policy cannot be limited to issuing permits, but must operate as a tool for strategic planning and sustainable development. He also referred to reforms adopted by the government to simplify and digitalise the development licensing process, with the aim of speeding up procedures and reducing bureaucracy.
Processing results
“The first results are already measurable. Almost 2,400 applications for developments of up to two residences were completed within 40 working days, while more than 850 applications for apartment buildings of up to 20 apartments were examined within 80 working days,” he said.