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President Nikos Christodoulides has unveiled a comprehensive plan aimed at revitalizing the Troodos mountainous region, with more than 20 major projects and policy actions set to be implemented. Announced during a visit to the community of Amiantos, this initiative is expected to cost over €30 million and is part of a broader effort to support Cyprus' rural and mountainous areas.
At the core of the plan are measures designed to stimulate economic growth and entrepreneurship in the region. A significant step in this direction is the adoption of 22 measures to simplify and accelerate the process of approving development projects. From July 2024, the newly established District Self-Government Organizations will oversee these processes, ensuring smoother and faster implementation of multiple developments. This is expected to create new employment opportunities and drive economic activity in Troodos.
Tourism is another key focus of the revitalization efforts. In April, a Grant Scheme was launched, aimed at enriching and upgrading the tourism offerings in rural and mountainous areas. With a total budget of €4 million, the scheme has already allocated €1.6 million to local authorities within the 14 Troodos region clusters for projects that enhance the tourism product and improve local landscapes. Additionally, the Scheme for the Upgrade of Hotels and Tourist Accommodations in these areas has been introduced, with five businesses from the Troodos region set to receive over €800,000 in grants to boost their competitiveness.
To further enhance connectivity and modernize infrastructure, the government has begun installing a fiber optic network in some of the most remote villages in Troodos. This project, expected to be completed by 2025, will significantly improve access to digital services and communication for residents, helping bridge the gap between urban and rural areas.
Beyond economic and tourism initiatives, the plan also includes improvements in healthcare, education, and transportation networks. These projects are designed to strengthen essential services, promote the primary sector, and ensure better access to and from the Troodos region, making it a more attractive and viable place for both residents and visitors.
These combined efforts reflect the government’s commitment to breathing new life into the Troodos mountains, ensuring the area remains vibrant and economically sustainable while improving the quality of life for its communities.
[Source: CNA]
