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The Supreme Constitutional Court recently made a decision that has significant implications for luxury camping (glamping) and visitor farm projects in Cyprus. On November 13, 2024, the Court rejected a challenge by the President against a new law that requires these projects to undergo a more detailed environmental impact study before they can proceed. This ruling confirms that the law passed by Parliament is valid and will now officially become part of Cyprus’s legal framework.
What the New Law Means
The new law moves glamping and visitor farm projects into a category that demands a full environmental impact assessment. This means that, before these projects can be approved, developers must assess how they will affect the environment, including land, water, wildlife, and local communities. Previously, these projects were only required to submit basic information, leaving more room for approval without a full review.
The law also strips the Minister of Energy, Trade, and Industry of the power to make changes to environmental regulations without the involvement of Parliament. Now, Parliament must approve any such changes, ensuring that decisions are made more transparently and with broader oversight.
Pros of the Law
1. Better Environmental Protection: By requiring a full environmental impact study, the law ensures that any new developments, like glamping sites, will be carefully checked for potential harm to the environment. This is especially important for protecting the natural beauty of Cyprus, which is a major draw for both locals and tourists.
2. More Transparency: With Parliament now in control of any changes to environmental regulations, the process becomes more open and accountable. This means that decisions affecting the environment will be debated and voted on by elected representatives, instead of being left to the discretion of a single minister.
3. Stronger Oversight: The new law helps make sure that the projects are carefully considered from all angles, including their environmental impact, before they can begin. This could help avoid mistakes or problems that might arise later on.
Cons of the Law
1. Delays for Developers: One downside of the new law is that it may slow down the approval process for new glamping and visitor farm projects. Developers now need to submit more detailed studies and wait for approval, which could delay the start of new businesses and increase costs.
2. Potential for More Bureaucracy: The requirement for a full environmental impact study may lead to more red tape for small businesses or local entrepreneurs who want to build these types of projects. The added paperwork and waiting time could be a burden for some, particularly those with limited resources.
3. Uncertainty for Future Projects: While the law aims to protect the environment, some may argue that it could create uncertainty for future developments. The fear is that the extra hurdles and longer approval processes could discourage investment or cause developers to rethink their plans altogether.
The Bigger Picture
The Court’s decision is a win for environmental protection and transparency, making it clear that Cyprus is committed to balancing development with sustainability. However, while the law is seen as a step in the right direction for the environment, it also raises questions about how it will affect future development and the speed at which new businesses can grow in the tourism sector.
As the law moves forward, it will be important to find a balance that allows for both economic growth and environmental responsibility, ensuring that Cyprus continues to thrive without compromising its natural beauty.
