President Nikos Christodoulides this week announced a €122 million initiative designed to significantly enhance infrastructure and public services throughout the Famagusta district.
The president outlined the details of this plan, wihch includes 30 new and ongoing projects, during a regional meeting in Paralimni, as part of his broader tour of Cyprus’ municipalities.
Christodoulides pointed out the “crucial role Famagusta plays in the country’s economy”, particularly noting its substantial contributions to the tourism industry.
He mentioned that the plan includes significant infrastructure improvements, such as the €9 million upgrade of Karyon street in Avgorou and an €8 million investment in a new Multi-Storey Parking Area in Paralimni.
Additional enhancements will see the Ayia Napa seafront revitalised with a €3.6 million investment and roads linking Vrysoudia street with Pinia street receiving a €4 million upgrade.
Urban development was also a focus, with the introduction of both linear and urban parks and key tourism infrastructure projects like the €5 million multifunctional park in Ayia Napa and a €1 million linear park in Aheritou.
On the economic front, Christodoulides introduced a €700,000 incentive scheme for the catering industry and a €250,000 project for an industrial area in Dasaki.
Education will also see significant investment, including a €5.5 million upgrade to the Paralimni gymnasium and new €15 million gymnasium construction. A
School of tourism is also planned as part of the post secondary institutions of vocational education and training (Mieek) framework.
The social welfare initiatives include a new €4 million Famagusta district centre for people with autism, and enhanced childcare facilities in Avgorou.
The cultural sector, he said, “will benefit from the transformation of Ayia Napa Monastery into a museum”, which will also include a research centre, library, and conference facilities costing €2.3 million
Other cultural developments include a €5 million culturan centre in Deryneia and a €1.5 million outdoor amphitheatre in Avgorou.
In the sports field, several centres including those in Sotiras, Frenaros, and Liopetri will be upgraded, each with an investment of €2 million.
There is also a plan for a new public sports area in Dasaki, with a budget of €2 million.
Addressing the economic challenges, the president outlined the government’s strategy to alleviate businesses struggling with energy costs and the shortage of workforce owing to stringent employment conditions.
The upcoming tax reforms aim to boost household incomes, support the middle class, and enhance the competitiveness of Cypriot businesses.
Christodoulides also spoke about the importance of integrating the education sector with the labour market through the creation of university branches in Famagusta, enhancing higher education within the region.
What is more, Christodoulides called for a unified effort among local institutions, public officials, and citizens to ensure effective and rapid implementation of these initiatives.
Finally, he reassured that there would be “continuous government support and targeted development to propel Famagusta and the entire country towards enduring progress and prosperity”.