ETEK submits comprehensive plan for Nicosia city centre revitalization

In June 2026, the Scientific and Technical Chamber of Cyprus (ETEK) submitted a revitalization report to President Nikos Christodoulides, aiming to address the long-term stagnation of central Nicosia. The proposal identifies the lack of a centralized implementation mechanism as the primary obstacle and advocates for the creation of a 'delivery office' to monitor and coordinate urban projects. Key infrastructure recommendations include a continuous linear park connecting Paphos Gate and Famagusta Gate, along with a network of express routes for better connectivity. To tackle urban decay, ETEK proposes a tax on long-term vacant properties, alongside financial incentives for building renovations and fast-track licensing for property use changes. The chamber suggests using Makarios Avenue as a pilot site for immediate interventions such as improved lighting and shading. The report emphasizes that previous piecemeal projects failed due to fragmented planning and insufficient institutional oversight. ETEK recommends a 18 to 36-month timeline for these major infrastructural backbones.