Lemesos Municipal Council approves new six-month smart parking pilot program

The Lemesos Municipal Council has approved a new pricing policy for central parking, set to launch as a six-month pilot program. The system covers a total of 2,211 parking spaces, comprising 716 spots in organized lots and 1,495 on-street locations. The standard parking fee is set at €1 per hour, with the first 30 minutes provided free of charge. However, if a driver exceeds the 30-minute threshold, the fee will be retroactive, applying from the initial time of arrival. Additionally, up to 100 on-street spaces in central areas will now feature a maximum parking duration limit of 60 minutes.

While the proposal secured majority support, the decision followed heated debate within the council regarding the availability of alternative transport options for residents, workers, and students. Special provisions remain for vulnerable groups, as parking for individuals with disabilities and designated parental assistance spots will remain free. Furthermore, special €60 cards will be available for specific user categories. On-street parking will continue to be free on Sundays and during the nighttime hours between 7:30 p.m. and 7:30 a.m. The municipality aims to increase turnover in central parking areas through these measures, though the exact start date for the pilot has not been specified.