Peyia, Cyprus. The Peyia Beer Festival was allowed to proceed on Saturday after the environment department approved the three-day event at Agios Georgios Square, subject to conditions intended to limit impacts on nearby protected areas.
The festival began on Friday and is due to continue until Sunday.
Approval and future framework
The approval followed a site inspection and a review of information submitted by Akamas municipality.
The department requested an immediate meeting with the municipality to establish a framework for future events in the area, citing its environmental sensitivity. It said prior consultation would be required for future activities.
Conditions for organisers
Environmental groups had raised concerns over the festival’s proximity to protected areas on the Akamas peninsula, including Natura 2000 sites.
Under the conditions, organisers must place the stage on the northern side of the venue, facing southwest. Lighting must be restricted and prevented from reaching the sea, while spotlights and other equipment directing beams towards the sky are prohibited.
Sound systems must also be adjusted to prevent noise from reaching the Akamas national forest park and surrounding protected areas. The conditions also cover waste management.
Inspections and enforcement
The department said inspections would be carried out during and after the event. It warned that any breach of the conditions could result in the festival being stopped.