Parliamentary review of dangerous conditions at the former Othello cinema in Nicosia

The House Audit Committee in Nicosia has launched an investigation into the dangerous structural state of the former Othello cinema in Engomi. Although the Nicosia District Local Government Organisation (DLGO) declared the building dangerous following a visual inspection, commercial activity continues on the ground floor, raising significant public safety and health concerns due to the site being labeled a nuisance and a sanitation hazard.

During the committee session, officials reported that parts of the site have been fenced off and fines have been issued, while state services denied negligence, noting they oversee 1,400 dangerous buildings. Business owners operating in the building since 1995 claim they have invested 1.2 million euros and oppose demolition. Conversely, local authorities, including Nicosia Mayor Charalambos Prountzos, emphasized that the building has posed a chronic safety risk for two decades.

The committee has requested the appointment of an independent expert to determine whether the structure can be repaired or must be demolished. The Nicosia DLGO is tasked with conducting a new study to inform future measures. The matter will return to the committee's agenda for further monitoring as lawmakers seek to resolve the legal and physical impasse surrounding the property.