In a landmark shift toward sustainability and community wellbeing, Nicosia is transforming the former State Fairgrounds into Cyprus’ largest natural park, spanning approximately 250,000 square meters. This bold move replaces previous plans for a tech hub and commercial buildings with a much needed urban oasis in the capital.
A Green Vision Backed by the People
The change of course was announced on June 5 by Nicosia Mayor Charalambos Prontos, who confirmed that the decision came directly in response to overwhelming public feedback. A local survey showed that 90% of residents preferred a public park over more construction, underscoring the community’s desire for open space, nature, and recreational areas.
“This area of Engomi has developed rapidly, there’s concrete everywhere,” said Mayor Prontos. “People are asking for space to breathe, relax, and enjoy their city.”
From Concrete Plans to Community Priorities
Originally, the site was destined for a technology park and hotel complex under a 2022 development proposal. That plan has now been officially scrapped. Additional suggestions like installing a park-and-go transport hub, were also dropped after facing local opposition.
Instead, city officials are now focusing on green urban design that prioritizes environmental sustainability and public use. The municipality has committed to solving all technical challenges, including water infrastructure, during the planning phase.
A Shift Toward Smarter Urban Planning
With preliminary studies expected to take two to three months, the attention now shifts to Sopaz, a currently unused area being considered as the new site for the technology park. This allows the city to support both innovation and greenery, without sacrificing one for the other.
Parliament is set to revisit the urban park proposal in October, but momentum is strong: the Ministries of Interior, Transport, and Finance have already thrown their support behind the park project.
Building for the Future, Not Just Today
“This is about more than just a park,” said Green Party MP Stavros Papadouris. “It’s about creating a legacy of nature, not just concrete, for the next generation.”
AKEL MP Aristos Damianou echoed that sentiment, crediting both community voices and political willpower for bringing the vision to life.
For decades, the old fairgrounds, relocated to Makedonitissa in the 1970s, hosted exhibitions, concerts, and rallies. Now, it’s being reimagined as a place of reflection, connection, and ecological renewal.
Source: dom.com.cy