Local municipalities protest plan for new central prisons in Agios Sozomenos

On Monday, September 28, 2026, the municipal councils of Latsia-Geri and South Nicosia-Idalio held an informal joint session to discuss the government's decision to construct new central prisons in the Agios Sozomenos area. Mayors Christos Pittaras and Stavros Chatzigiannis expressed significant concern regarding the suitability of the selected site, which reportedly includes environmental protection zones designated under the Natura network, as well as areas of archaeological importance.

Local authorities voiced strong dissatisfaction with the lack of prior consultation, contrasting this approach with the planning process previously initiated for Mathiatis. While emphasizing that they do not inherently oppose state infrastructure projects, the mayors highlighted that they were not informed before the announcement, despite representing municipalities with approximately 60,000 residents.

Following the meeting, officials confirmed they are in possession of a letter from the Minister of Justice addressing some of their initial inquiries. The councils remain united in their stance and are currently awaiting the scheduling of an official meeting with the Minister to discuss the project's impact and future actions.