Protaras, Cyprus. Protaras remains the economic engine of the Paralimni-Deryneia municipality, with authorities seeking to extend visitor interest across all areas through projects and tourism initiatives, Mayor Giorgos Nikolettos said.
Protaras described as economic flagship
Speaking to the Cyprus News Agency (CNA), Nikolettos said the coastal resort, which draws thousands of tourists each year, is a key asset for both Protaras and the wider municipality. He described Protaras as “the flagship of our economy” and “a valuable asset for the entire municipality,” adding that tourism development supports the local economy, employment and broader prospects.
Plans to broaden visitor experience inland
Nikolettos said the municipality aims to widen the visitor experience beyond the seafront so tourism benefits inland areas as well. He cited initiatives including a tourist guide and the branding of the municipality, aimed at encouraging foreign and local visitors to explore Protaras, Paralimni, Deryneia, Frenaros and Acheritou.
Infrastructure pipeline across the municipality
Nikolettos said a range of infrastructure works is in progress across the municipality. In Paralimni, he highlighted emphasis on a multi-storey car park in the town centre intended to ease parking and traffic pressure, and said it would complement the licensed redevelopment of Paralimni square and the regeneration of the central core.
He also said works are moving ahead on traffic lights at the junction of Protaras Avenue and Megalou Alexandrou Street, the Pontian Genocide memorial, the regeneration of Vrysoudion-Pinias street in Pernera, studies for key road links, an elevator at the chapel of Profitis Elias, and pavement repairs and construction along Protaras Avenue.
Coastal pedestrian walkway phases
Nikolettos said progress is continuing on the coastal pedestrian walkway, with the fourth phase going through licensing and the fifth under design, with the longer-term goal of linking Kapparis to Konnos.
Which of the municipality’s planned projects do you expect will have the biggest impact on visitors?