Rafaela Dimitriadi
The regeneration project of Ledras and Onasagorou pedestrian streets is “necessary in every respect,” Nicosia Mayor Charalambos Prontzos said, stressing that the municipality understands the concerns raised by some business owners but believes the upgrade cannot be delayed any longer.
Speaking to Kathimerini and commenting on reactions from some shopkeepers, Prontzos said the municipality is fully aware that the pedestrian streets are a unique environment where businesses operate, many of which rely on outdoor seating areas.
Recently, shopkeepers and residents expressed strong opposition to the proposed redesign of the area, rejecting it “categorically,” according to an announcement by the Committee of Shopkeepers, Residents, and Owners of Small Businesses and Properties in Nicosia’s historic center.
The mayor said that everything the municipality is doing is aimed at supporting both businesses and residents by creating a better, safer and upgraded environment in which people can work and live.
He noted that previous regeneration projects in Nicosia’s historic center have benefited both the city’s image and the economic activity of the areas involved. Referring specifically to Ermou Street, he said the municipality wants to see a similar revival and improvement in both the appearance and economic climate of the Ledras and Onasagorou area.
“There can be no further delay”
Highlighting the poor condition of “all without exception” existing infrastructure, Prontzos warned that it has reached the end of its lifespan.
According to the mayor, sewage networks are in a “tragic condition,” electricity infrastructure is operating at its limits, and stormwater systems are also problematic, resulting in flooding in some areas.
“All experts say there can be no further delay in upgrading these specific infrastructures,” he said.
Regarding the progress of the project, Prontzos said the Municipal Council has decided to proceed with the renovation of building facades, a process that began several weeks ago and, according to him, has not caused any significant problems or major objections from businesses and residents.
“The issues that arise are being resolved automatically,” he said.
Asked about the timeline for completion, he explained that the initial plan provides for a period of four to five months per phase of the project.
“Nicosia’s historic center is our most valuable asset”
The mayor described the historic center of Nicosia as “the most valuable thing we have as a city.”
“It is our trademark. It is the heart and soul of the city,” he said.
After many years of delays, Prontzos said, the time has come to move forward with the project.
Referring to the €10.8 million funding secured for the regeneration, he stressed that further postponements would benefit no one, adding that the funding comes with a specific timeframe within which the project must be completed.
Responding to criticism that the amount allocated is limited and does not meet the area’s actual needs, the mayor expressed disagreement, saying it is the largest regeneration budget ever granted for a project in Cyprus.
He added that a democratic process was followed in designing the project, with four thematic public consultations planned where anyone interested will have the opportunity to express their views.
Once the final design is completed, he said, it will be implemented with the least possible disruption.
“However, a great deal of preparatory work has already been done,” he added.
Businesses will not be closed for two years, mayor says
Prontzos also rejected what he described as the mistaken impression that the pedestrian streets would be closed for two years.
“This does not reflect reality,” he said.
The municipality has divided the project into stages, meaning many businesses will not be affected for long periods, with some expected to experience no disruption at all for significant stretches of time.
Growing student presence in Nicosia center
The mayor also pointed to another major change coming to the city center: the expected arrival of around 1,000 students over the next three years.
“We cannot ignore the reality that is coming,” he said.
Referring to the operation of the Kapodistrian University, he said its first year began with 50 students, while the opening of positions for approved departments has created positive expectations.
He added that the psychology department, which was initially planned for Larnaca, will ultimately be relocated to Nicosia.
For this reason, Prontzos said the municipality is working to ensure that by the time these developments are fully realized, the historic center of Nicosia will be “a jewel” of the capital.
