Larnaca, Cyprus. Residents of Larnaca will protest on April 29 over the planned further development of Larnaca port and marina, Mayor Andreas Vyras said on Monday. He cited a lack of progress since the termination of the contract with Kition two years ago.
Mayor cites lack of progress and calls for decisions
Vyras said two years had passed since the termination of the contract with Kition “without any substantial progress,” adding that there was no longer room for further delays. He described the project as significant for Larnaca and the wider district and said a comprehensive report on the project was delivered during a meeting on Friday.
Transport minister commitments outlined
Vyras said Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades committed to presenting by the beginning of May a further superfund study, which will include a clear definition of the square metres for land development from existing land in the port areas. He added that Vafeades also committed to presenting a draft proposal as a preliminary plan covering the development of the port, marina and land, estimated project costs, implementation schedules and a financing scheme.
Protest framed as response to delays
Vyras said the transport minister’s commitments marked a defining moment and should be accompanied by a full and comprehensive proposal without further ambiguities or postponements. He described the protest as a sign of unity and determination and said residents would not accept further delays and were determined to pursue the project’s further development. He said Larnaca required clear decisions, specific planning and an immediate start of implementation.
Project draws attention after veto of ports authority plans
The long-delayed project gained further attention earlier this month when Vafeades vetoed the ports authority’s plans to present further proposals for the development of the area. Vafeades said political decisions needed to be finalised before proposals could be made public, with Vyras expressing frustration over what he described as a lack of coordination between the ports authority and the transport ministry.
How do you think authorities should address concerns about delays in the Larnaca port and marina project?
