Municipalities protest against new central prison site in Agios Sozomenos

On September 17, 2026, the municipalities of South Nicosia-Idali and Latsia-Geri issued a formal demand for the immediate revocation of the government's decision to locate the country's new central prison in the Agios Sozomenos area. While acknowledging the necessity for modern correctional infrastructure, the local authorities argue that the project, which is designed to house over 1,000 inmates and accommodate hundreds of staff members, was finalized without sufficient consultation or scientific study regarding land use, social, and environmental impacts.

The municipalities contend that the selected site is already heavily overburdened by industrial and agricultural infrastructure, including sewage treatment plants, livestock waste processing facilities, quarries, and piggeries, as well as overhead power lines. They are calling on the state to initiate a meaningful dialogue and explore alternative locations that do not further exacerbate the existing environmental and social pressures on the region. As of now, the municipalities are insisting that any large-scale project must be based on comprehensive and scientifically validated assessments to ensure the wellbeing of the surrounding community.