Nicosia to improve walking and cycling by 2030

Nicosia has unveiled an ambitious plan to transform the city into a '15-minute city' by 2030, aiming to ensure that residents can access essential services within a 15-minute walk or bike ride from their homes, officials announced Monday.

As Philenews reports, the initiative, encompassing the greater urban area of Nicosia, focuses on enhancing public transport, managing parking, and expanding cycling infrastructure. Officials hope the plan will make it easier for residents to access daily necessities without relying on cars.

Key interventions target commercial and historical centers in Nicosia and surrounding municipalities, including Lakatamia, Agioi Omologites, Agios Dometios, Aglantzia, and Strovolos. One major proposal is to reduce speed limits to 30 km/h in certain areas, particularly in the city center and historical districts, in an effort to curb current speeds of up to 70 km/h on main roads. Officials say the high speeds discourage walking and cycling.

The plan also outlines nine major development projects scheduled for completion by 2030, such as the renovation of the old GSP stadium, the mixed-use Landmark development, and the construction of a new Archaeological Museum. Other projects include a new JUMBO hypermarket in Strovolos, government buildings, and land developments by Kykkos Monastery and IT firm Logicom.

These initiatives are designed to enhance access to work, education, shopping, and services while promoting sustainable mobility. The projects will integrate public green spaces, community facilities, and improvements to public transport networks.

 [Information sourced from Philenews]