The Environmental Authority has approved plans for the linear park along the Pedieos River, extending across the United Nations Buffer Zone in Nicosia.
The project is divided into three sections:
- South of the United Nations Zone, starting from the point bordering Kinyras Street and ending at the southern limit of the Buffer Zone. The length of this route is 380 meters.
- Buffer Zone to its end at Nikos Kazantzakis Street. The length of this route is 435 meters.
- End of the Buffer Zone and further north. The length of this route is 4795 meters.
The development, estimated to cost €895,503, is expected to be completed within 18 months.
Key features of the park include bicycle paths, hiking trails, flood protection measures, and facilities for recreation and environmental education facilities. The project aims to restore the riverbed, enhance public use, upgrade the area ecologically, and protect rare flora present at the river.
Within the Buffer Zone, an elevated bridge path will be constructed, reaching heights of 3-5 metres in some sections to accommodate UN peacekeeping patrols. Fencing will be installed on both sides of the Buffer Zone segment.
The park will feature two parallel paths for cyclists and pedestrians, with maximum widths of two metres and 1.5 metres respectively. LED lighting will be installed where feasible.
The development is situated near several significant landmarks, including the Nicosia Courthouse, historic city walls, the Municipal Theatre, and the Nicosia Museum.
While the approved plan includes sections south of and within the Buffer Zone, it does not encompass the portion extending into the northern part of Cyprus.
