Trozena, Cyprus. Environmental organisation Terra Cypria has renewed concerns over alleged construction activity at the abandoned settlement of Trozena within a Natura 2000 protected area, claiming the works lack required environmental and planning permits. Arsos community leader Giannis Giannakis disputed the allegations.
Protected area claims
The organisation said the project, involving the redevelopment of the abandoned settlements of Trozena and Gerovasa, is located within the Hapotami Special Protection Area, which is protected under the EU’s Natura 2000 network.
Terra Cypria said a site visit on Tuesday found construction activity continuing both inside and outside the boundaries of the proposed development.
It alleged that the works were being carried out without environmental approval, planning permission or a building permit. The organisation also said the environment department had not responded to repeated requests for environmental information.
Previous concerns
Terra Cypria said it first raised concerns in 2025 after a Special Ecological Assessment was submitted for the redevelopment of the two settlements.
During the assessment process in 2026, authorities identified that earthworks and construction had already begun before the required approvals had been granted, according to the organisation.
Terra Cypria said letters sent to the environment department at the time received no response.
Request for action
In a letter sent on July 22, the organisation requested an update on actions taken by the environment department, the game and fauna service and the Limassol district local government organisation, known as EOA.
It also requested clarification on the implementation of national and European environmental legislation and called on authorities to enforce the law, protect the Natura 2000 site and take measures over the alleged violations.
