Sixty development projects in the Larnaca district with a budget exceeding €180 million were outlined by President Nikos Christodoulides on Saturday at a broad meeting with city stakeholders in Oroklini.
During the meeting, part of his ongoing tour of Cyprus’ areas, the president emphasised his commitment to improving the daily lives of Larnaca’s citizens through targeted investments and infrastructure enhancements.
He announced that a long-awaited agreement concerning Larnaca Port would be signed in April with Greece’s Hellenic Republic Asset Development Fund (HRDF). The agreement aims to optimise the port’s use for economic and social benefits.
Additionally, he confirmed that the approved dredging and maintenance works for Larnaca Marina are progressing, with the tender process already underway.
Significant improvements to Larnaca International Airport are also in motion, with a newly negotiated agreement that offers better terms for the state, he said. Expansion and renovation efforts have already commenced, aiming to enhance passenger experience, particularly after the airport recorded a record-breaking 12.3 million travellers in 2023.
In higher education, the government has approved funding for the creation of the Cyprus University of Technology (Tepak) School of Marine Sciences, Technology and Sustainable Development in Larnaca. The school, expected to open in 2027, will promote education and research in the blue economy.
Furthermore, efforts are underway to attract foreign university branches to Larnaca, facilitated by the government’s newly adopted Higher Education Strategy and accompanying legislative changes, he said.
Plans for new school facilities include the construction of the Green Professions Technical and Vocational School, set to replace the Saint Lazarus Technical School, with an estimated cost of over €30 million. Additionally, €40 million will be allocated for new school buildings and the renovation of existing institutions, including Drosia Gymnasium and the Evriviades Gymnasium.
The president also announced the establishment of the Aradippou Business Innovation and Research Centre, designed to support young entrepreneurs by providing affordable office space and fostering a startup-friendly environment.
Further economic support will be directed toward the primary sector, including investments in agriculture, livestock farming, and fisheries. These initiatives include energy cost reduction measures, irrigation support, and a €60 million investment programme under the 2023-2027 CAP Strategic Plan.
A series of sustainability and energy efficiency projects have been planned, including the gradual upgrade of the Koshi Integrated Waste Management Facility.
The president also highlighted the €320 million expansion of the Vasilikos Port into a green energy hub, expected to begin by late 2025 and conclude in 2029.
Larnaca’s healthcare infrastructure will receive a €16.4 million upgrade over 2025-2026, including additional operating theatres and endoscopy clinics at the General Hospital. The government also plans to improve the Accident and Emergency department and establish a Rapid Care Unit for non-emergency cases.
The Athienou Health Centre will receive additional specialist doctors, improving medical services in remote areas.
Tourism remains a key pillar of Larnaca’s economy, with plans to invest over €1 million in projects that enhance rural revitalisation, dining venues, and beach infrastructure. Restoration works will also be carried out at key historical sites, including Larnaca Castle, the Choirokoitia archaeological site, and the Medieval Chapel in Pyrga.
Several major road improvement projects are in progress, including the redevelopment of central avenues such as Griva Digeni and Grigori Afxentiou, alongside new road connections to boost mobility.
Local authorities will benefit from an annual allocation of €12 million from 2025 to 2027 to compensate for lost revenues due to administrative reforms in development licensing.
Housing initiatives include the allocation of self-housing plots in Kivisili and Menogeia, alongside reforms to improve transparency in the management of Turkish Cypriot properties. Increased financial aid limits for entitled refugees have also been introduced.
Christodoulides emphasised that these initiatives represent a comprehensive effort to elevate Larnaca’s position as a key economic and social hub in Cyprus. With projects spanning from infrastructure and education to sustainability and tourism, the government aims to create long-term benefits for the district’s residents and businesses.