Parliamentary committee investigates British Bases' antenna plans in Akrotiri

On October 7, 2026, the Parliamentary Environment Committee in Cyprus addressed plans by the British Bases to install new antenna arrays in the Merra area of Akrotiri. Environmental groups and local residents have expressed significant concern regarding the project's potential impact on public health, the local ecosystem, migratory bird habitats, and the wetlands of the Akrotiri Peninsula, which are already under pressure from existing military and telecommunications infrastructure.

During the hearing, discussions revealed that the project could proceed in phases, with approximately 68 antennas planned for the first stage, another 68 in the second, and potentially over 30 more in a third phase. DIKO leader Nikolas Papadopoulos criticized the lack of transparency from UK authorities and suggested exploring legal avenues regarding the presence of the Bases. DISY MPs highlighted the necessity for full disclosure to the local community, while the Foreign Ministry indicated that talks with the British High Commission are currently ongoing to review technical data and environmental protection measures.

Foreign Ministry representative Theodora Constantinidou stated that no installations have commenced yet. An official meeting between Cypriot and British officials is scheduled in two weeks to continue discussions on the technical specifications and safety standards of the proposed infrastructure.