The construction sector in Cyprus started 2025 with a notable dip in building permits, as the Statistical Service reports a 24% year-on-year decline for January 2025.
Only 446 permits were issued during the month—down from the same period last year—indicating a cooling in construction activity. Interestingly though, the total value of those permits increased by 4.3%, reaching €230.8 million, suggesting that while fewer projects were greenlit, the ones that were are likely larger or more high-end.
Breakdown of the Numbers:
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Total Area: 189.9k m² (down 4.2% from Jan 2024)
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Dwelling Units: 838 (up 0.5% year-on-year)
So, even with the slowdown in approvals, housing unit numbers slightly edged up, possibly pointing to more efficient land use or multi-unit developments.
Shift in Permit Authority
It’s worth noting that since July 1, 2024, the power to issue building permits no longer lies with municipalities or district offices. Instead, that role now belongs to the Local Government Organisations (LGOs). The entire process has also been digitized through the “Ippodamos” integrated information system, aiming to streamline licensing and enhance transparency.
Source: Stockwatch.com.cy