Newsroom
Cypriot authorities are investigating a house construction project near the Kryos River in Pano Platres after concerns were raised about its proximity to the river. Following strong reactions on social media, the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Environment conducted inspections on August 19 and August 21 to assess the situation.
The Department of Environment reported that it was not consulted by the Planning Authority before granting the planning permission in July 2021. Additionally, the Forest Department's input was not sought. Both departments have emphasized that their views should have been considered given the project's proximity to a Natura 2000 area and Troodos State Forest.
The house, situated in a residential zone (H5a), is approximately 6-8 meters from the Kryos Riverbed and 12 meters below the road level. While the house is three stories high, with one floor possibly classified as a basement, its construction has halted pending further review.
In July, the Water Development Department identified potential violations, noting that construction activities might be encroaching on the river's protection strip. A detailed survey is scheduled for September to evaluate the extent of any interference and confirm the exact boundaries of the riverbed. This will guide any necessary legal actions.
Recent social media posts, including those from environmental activist Giorgos Perdikis, have highlighted concerns about the construction's impact on the environment.
[Summary of Pavlos Neophytos' original story in Greek published in Kathimerini's Cyprus edition]
