Opposition to new Limassol Mall project due to planning and traffic concerns

The Cypriot Cabinet has approved a permit for the construction of a new shopping center, the Limassol Mall, within the municipal boundaries of Amathus. The project, which covers 28,434 square meters and includes 90 shops, restaurants, and a cinema, has drawn criticism from the Volt party's provincial committee. Critics argue that the approval process bypassed the established local planning rules. The planned site is located near the Agios Athanasios junction, which is already a major bottleneck for the city. Daily traffic at this junction averages 90,350 vehicles, with peak measurements reaching 96,000. Local groups and the Municipality of Amathus have expressed concerns that adding such a large-scale commercial development will exacerbate existing congestion and degrade the living conditions of residents. Furthermore, the area is already facing increased pressure from significant residential construction, including over 60 new apartment buildings north of the highway.