Nicosia District Self-Government Organization assesses reform progress and licensing performance

The Nicosia District Self-Government Organization (EOA) has defended its performance following public criticism regarding delays in building and planning permit processing. In a response to reports of bureaucratic hurdles, the EOA stated that it issued 3,170 building permits in 2025, marking one of the highest figures in the last decade. Furthermore, national data indicates a 44.1% increase in issued permits during the first quarter of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025.

Despite these figures, the EOA acknowledges that significant challenges remain. The organization cited the consolidation of 12 distinct planning authorities, initial staffing shortages, and technical issues with the 'Hippodamos' software system as major obstacles. The EOA maintains that while it is currently processing more permits than the volume of new applications received, further reduction in processing times and bureaucracy is contingent upon the full completion of the broader administrative reform process.