Limassol, Cyprus. The future of the Limassol zoo is set to be decided on Thursday, when the municipal council is expected to vote on whether the facility should continue housing animals or be transformed into a biodiversity and environmental centre.
Proposal for transformation
At the centre of the debate is a proposal prepared by the Cyprus Centre for Environmental Research and Education, CyCere, which envisions replacing the zoo with an open-access biodiversity and urban environment centre known as “Fysi”, focused on environmental education, research and public participation.
Speaking to the Cyprus Mail, CyCere scientific director Dr Andreas Hatzihampis said the organisation had submitted a scientifically documented study containing ideas he described as pioneering for Cyprus and for Europe.
“We have proposed innovative things for Cyprus and in fact for Europe. The space would be transformed into a centre for biodiversity, and we believe this is an opportunity for Limassol,” he said.
Scope of the planned centre
Asked whether the zoo could remain in its current form, Hatzihampis said that all possibilities remain open, with the final decision resting with the municipal council.
The proposal seeks to shift the emphasis from keeping animals in captivity to promoting biodiversity and environmental awareness. It includes outdoor “living laboratories”, interactive digital installations, educational programmes and themed areas focusing on urban ecosystems, climate change, light pollution, circular economy and sustainable mobility.
The centre would also include microhabitats showcasing Cyprus’ biodiversity, environmental exhibitions, citizen science activities and spaces for families, students and researchers. The plan also aims to integrate the former zoo site more closely with the adjacent public gardens.
Public response and opposition
Public consultations carried out earlier this year indicated strong support for the transformation, with more than 80 per cent of participants backing the closure of the zoo and the relocation of animals to approved facilities. Around 90 per cent supported the educational and environmental aspects of the proposed centre.
However, the issue has prompted opposition from some former mayors and residents, who argue that the zoo, which dates back to the 1950s, is part of the city’s identity and collective memory.
Animal welfare advocates have also commented ahead of the vote. In a statement on Thursday, the Cyprus Party for Animals called for the permanent end of animal captivity at the site, saying that preserving historical memory should not mean maintaining outdated practices.
