Part of the projects and initiatives aimed at revitalizing the countryside is the restoration of the traditional “Iakovidis” watermill in Akaki, said the Minister of the Interior, Konstantinos Ioannou, in his remarks during the project’s inauguration ceremony on Sunday, noting, at the same time, that through savings made by the Nicosia District Administration, the sum of €50,000 to the Akaki Community Council to fund new initiatives for the benefit of the community.”
As he noted, the maintenance, restoration, and renovation of the buildings were carried out with particular respect for their authentic character, typology, and materials. At the same time, he explained that the watermill was transformed into a modern, visitor-friendly, and vibrant space, featuring an event hall, exhibition spaces, a small café, and areas where the machinery of the traditional watermill, flour mill, and olive press are on display.
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He noted that the total cost of the project exceeded €767,000, including VAT, project inspector services, and engineering studies. Work began in November 2022 and was completed in January 2024.
“This project takes on even greater significance when viewed within the broader context of our rural development policy,” said the Minister, adding that “The government recognizes that the revitalization of our communities cannot be achieved through isolated interventions. It requires comprehensive planning with investments in infrastructure, services, connectivity, culture, and, of course, housing.”
He then referred to projects in the neighboring town of Menoiko, with a total value of approximately €1.57 million, aimed at revitalizing the traditional town center, improving the road network, upgrading the community park, and other improvements.
He noted that housing policy is also aimed in the same direction, so that communities can attract and retain young families and young people. “The Housing Plan for the Revitalization of Specific Rural Areas, which includes Akaki, provides financial assistance for the purchase of owner-occupied housing with the aim of encouraging permanent residency and revitalizing eligible areas,” said Mr. Ioannou.
He also referred to the Housing Plan for the Allocation of Plots to Families based on income criteria, and to the new plan granting the right to build an additional story or expand an existing residence.
“The major infrastructure projects that strengthen Akakio’s position as the center of the wider region are also aimed in the same direction,” the Minister added, citing the Hatzigiannis Health Center in Akakio—a €5.2 million investment—as well as the Deneia-Akaki-Astromeritis highway.
“The projects and policies I mentioned are part of the Government’s broader policy approach, aimed at creating communities with modern infrastructure, quality services, housing opportunities, and strong prospects for development, while preserving their unique identity and historical character,” the Minister explained.
Source: CNA
