Greens oppose construction of Larnaca mall

The Green party organised a demonstration on Wednesday to protest plans of building a mall in Larnaca, which is already in the works.

According to media reports, a group of protesters held banners outside at the future site of Metropolis Mall, next to a National Guard training facility right outside the town.

The Greens, who said they are aware that plans are already moving forward, came out against the construction citing an ecological disaster including the destruction of very old trees.

“Despite protests and powerful steps to address those involved and various governmental agencies, nothing seems to be stopping the construction of Larnaca Mall,” a party statement said.

But the Greens also pointed out in the same statement that their protests turned out to be fruitful at least in the way that new trees will be planted at the end of the construction project.

“But one cannot replace an entire forest of tall trees with saplings,” the party said.

Back in September, the City was moving swiftly to issue building permits with Larnaca Mayor Andreas Vyras saying the town stood to gain from the investment, as job opportunities would add value to the area.

Critics point out that a new mall, the first ever for Larnaca, would present a number of challenges to local small-business owners.

Vyras suggested that municipal authorities have a role to play in minimizing the negative impact on small businesses, while also hailing the project as part of an overall significant development in the area.

The city is expected to receive about €2 million in fees, an amount that will be earmarked for further public works in Larnaca.

The mall is expected to take 18 months from start to finish, and it is expected to house over 100 shops, a supermarket, a movie theatre, and over 1500 parking spaces.