Businessman raises concerns over handling of dangerous Othello building in Nicosia

Vasilis Hadjigeorgiou, a director of a company renting space in the former Othello cinema building in Engomi, Nicosia, has filed a formal complaint against the Nicosia District Local Government Organization (EOA) for inaction regarding the structure's dangerous condition. In an August 24, 2026, letter, Hadjigeorgiou alleged that an EOA official previously suggested the building should simply be allowed to collapse on its own. A witness, Andreas Hadjigeorgiou, reportedly corroborates this account.

The building was officially classified as dangerous on October 14, 2025, with authorities threatening fines if repairs did not commence within six weeks. Despite subsequent warnings issued on March 12 and April 30, 2026, no fines have been levied. Although the site has been fenced off and marked with warning signs, staff and customers continue to access the store, exposing them to ongoing risks. Hadjigeorgiou noted that the EOA's stance has recently become more responsible, though he is now demanding the immediate imposition of promised fines and concrete action to eliminate the hazard.

While the EOA has acknowledged the situation by marking the building as dangerous, the businessman insists that administrative failure has delayed necessary safety measures. The situation remains unresolved as occupants continue to use the premises, awaiting further intervention from the local authorities to ensure structural safety.