The municipalities of South Nicosia–Idali and Latsia–Geri are calling for the immediate revocation of the decision to locate the new Central Prison in the Agios Sozomenos area. In a joint statement, they are calling for an immediate reconsideration of the decision based on a comprehensive and scientifically substantiated study that takes into account all relevant factors, including, among others, existing land uses, environmental and social impacts, infrastructure, and the needs of the wider region.
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“The two municipalities recognize the need to create modern and appropriate infrastructure for the country’s correctional facility. At the same time, they emphasize that a project of such a large scale, with a capacity of over 1,000 inmates and hundreds of employees, must be located based on a comprehensive and scientifically substantiated study that takes into account all relevant factors, including existing land uses, environmental and social impacts, infrastructure, and the needs of the broader region.
The municipalities note that the Agios Sozomenos area is already burdened by a number of existing activities and infrastructure, including wastewater treatment plants, livestock waste treatment facilities, quarries, pig farms, and other livestock facilities, while a 132 kV EAC overhead power line also runs through the area.
In addition, they point out that this specific area includes provisions for the designation of a livestock farming zone, as part of the plan to restructure the livestock sector in Cyprus. As they state, this fact cannot be overlooked and must be taken into account when assessing the suitability of the area.
The two municipalities, which together represent approximately 60,000 residents, emphasize that local authorities cannot be excluded from a process concerning a project with such significant and long-term implications for the wider region.
Therefore, they are calling for the immediate suspension of any new discussions, announcement, or action to promote the project at this specific site until a substantive consultation has taken place with local authorities and the affected communities. At the same time, they call for an examination of all available alternative siting options, based on objective and well-documented criteria.
In this context, the municipalities of South Nicosia–Idali and Latsia–Gerios will continue to closely monitor developments and responsibly represent the interests of their residents, calling on the government to reconsider the selection of this specific site before any final decision is made.”
