Authorities have approved construction of a €1 million camping facility in Peristerona, Paphos, following an environmental assessment due to its proximity to the Natura 2000 “Sarama Valley” Special Protection Area.
The Environment Department granted approval under strict conditions after an ad-hoc committee’s comprehensive Special Environmental Impact Assessment (SEIA), which concluded the redesigned project would not cause irreversible damage to the protected zone located 125 metres away.
The development will occupy 22,743 square metres within agricultural zone G3, with 419 square metres designated for construction. Plans include 20 dome-shaped cabins accommodating up to 72 guests during peak season (May-September), operating year-round with dining facilities, playground, amphitheatre, biological wastewater treatment plant and 35 parking spaces.
Environmental assessment clears project with strict conditions
Initial environmental concerns emerged during the committee’s first meeting on 9 December 2024, attended by representatives from the Forestry Department, Game and Fauna Service, BirdLife Cyprus and Terra Cypria. Participants raised reservations about potential disturbance to local bird populations, increased human presence and noise pollution during breeding and nesting periods.
Following design revisions, the committee reconvened on 20 June 2025. The SEIA determined the development site does not constitute significant habitat for protected species, which prefer different environment types. However, 51 bird species were recorded in the broader area, including seven listed under Directive 2009/147/EC Annex I, with only three common species nesting within the plot.
The committee assessed construction and operational impacts as limited, temporary and reversible under specified mitigation measures.
Development includes 20 dome cabins and facilities for 72 guests
Approval conditions include restricting construction work during bird breeding season (March-July), limiting lighting to downward-directed systems, prohibiting loud music, fires and mass events, maintaining landscape continuity through plantings, avoiding road network interference and implementing strict waste and wastewater management protocols.
The project will establish 3,034 square metres of public green space and preserve a 2,200-square-metre untouched zone. More than 250 trees and shrubs will be planted within and around the site perimeter.
Construction is expected to begin once required permits are secured, with completion estimated within 12 months. The site is accessed via existing roads connecting to the plot’s eastern boundary.
The broader area contains agricultural land, natural vegetation and isolated residences, with Evretou reservoir located approximately 450 metres southwest. Peristerona community lies 1.4 kilometres northeast, while Steni community is situated two kilometres northwest of the proposed development.
