Council for the Study of Planning Exemptions defers decision on Cape Greco monastery project

The Council for the Study of Planning Exemptions (SYMEPA) in Cyprus unanimously decided on November 13, 2026, to re-examine a controversial planning application submitted by the Holy Metropolis of Constantia and Famagusta. The project involves the construction of a monastery and a shelter for abused women and children in the environmentally protected Natura 2000 area of Cape Greco, in the Agia Napa municipality.

This decision follows an initial favorable ruling on October 16, 2026, which triggered significant public outcry and parliamentary scrutiny. The Metropolis submitted new documentation on November 6 and 11, 2026, pledging extensive modifications to the original plans. These changes include scrapping buildings that account for over 50% of the proposed building density, aiming to retain only the monastery and the shelter facilities. Additionally, the Church provided independent scientific reports to address environmental concerns.

Invoking Regulation 15(3) of the Town and Country Planning (Exemptions) Regulations (KDP 309/99), the council opted to postpone its final recommendation to the Cabinet. The body is now required to review the updated project scope and scientific data in a future session before reaching a conclusive decision. The move follows intense debate regarding the granting of planning exemptions in sensitive ecological zones.