Newsroom
The redevelopment of the old GSP in Nicosia, originally set to finish by November 2023, has faced delays but is now moving forward, according to a report by Kathimerini's Dorita Yiannakou. The project, which has become a top priority for the government, is expected to significantly enhance the city's historic center. The delays were mainly due to weather, complex earthworks, and a workers' strike, but efforts are being made to speed up progress. The number of workers on site has doubled, and pressure is being applied by the Nicosia Municipality to avoid further delays.
Key features of the project include a large car park with 554 spaces, including spots for electric vehicles, disabled parking, and spaces for the Ministry of Finance staff. While the parking was initially planned for residents during the holidays, the Municipality decided to hold off to avoid interfering with the ongoing work. Additional trees have been planted to improve shading, and the outdoor amphitheater is nearly finished. The commercial areas are also in the final stages of construction, with the project being delivered as a “cold shell” to the Municipality, meaning future tenants will customize their spaces.
The Municipality is aiming to find a single management group to oversee the commercial areas, ensuring a consistent and high-quality experience. A tender for this role will be announced in January. The redevelopment will also include a new Citizen Service Centre, which will replace the one that closed on Makarios Avenue, providing a much-needed service for residents of central and eastern Nicosia.
To improve access to the historic center, the Municipality has teamed up with Cyprus Public Transport, planning to use minibuses to shuttle people from the GSP site to the city center. A new pedestrian route will also connect the area to the Cyprus Museum and Municipal Theatre, making it easier for people to move around.
The project's budget, initially set at €22.6 million, may increase as it nears completion. The funding comes from a mix of the EU, the Cypriot government, and Nicosia Municipality. The goal is to create the largest square in Nicosia, with space for 18,000 people, alongside green areas, recreational zones, and improved public access, making this project an important part of Nicosia’s ongoing urban development.
