Larnaca, Cyprus. Concerns were voiced on Friday after Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades presented development options for Larnaca’s port and marina, drawing criticism from local authorities who said the plans fall short of the city’s expectations.
Technical study presented to development committee
Members of the Larnaca development committee were presented with a technical study prepared by the Hellenic Superfund, with input from Dutch experts, outlining three development options each for the port and the marina.
The study focused exclusively on maritime infrastructure and made no reference to the commercial or urban use of adjoining land areas.
Mayor cites omission of land development
Larnaca mayor Andreas Vyras said the omission was a serious concern.
“The people of Larnaca expect developments that will create jobs and support the local economy,” he said.
“I will not accept a solution that excludes land development. This is what the city is asking for.”
Port options range from minor upgrades to extensive expansion
According to the study, options for the port include maintaining current operations with minor upgrades, limited quay improvements and dredging to meet demand until 2055, or a more extensive expansion involving deeper waters and new quays to accommodate larger and more frequent vessels.
Marina proposals include capacity increases up to 700 vessels
For the marina, proposals include maintaining its existing capacity of 340 berths, creating a new basin with floating docks to add around 200 berths, or a larger expansion of the northern basin that could eventually host up to 700 recreational vessels.
Minister says state involvement and public funding required
Vafeades said any chosen option would require active state involvement and public funding.
“We want development that we can control,” he said.
What development outcome do you expect for Larnaca’s port and marina?