Behind-the-scenes negotiations that could derail plans to relocate the University of Cyprus’ School of Architecture to the historic Faneromeni school in Nicosia’s walled city have developed in recent weeks.
Sources told philenews that moves have been made to reassign the Faneromeni building to the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, a move that would require cancelling the existing lease agreement with the University of Cyprus.
For the University of Cyprus, any cancellation of the agreement to move its Architecture School to the Faneromeni building constitutes a “cause for war,” according to Rector Tasos Christofides.
“Such information has indeed reached us and has greatly concerned us,” Christofides told philenews.
“I hope the state will respect its signature and continue to support the University of Cyprus. I sincerely wish for this. However, if these reports are unfortunately confirmed, then yes, it could be said that for us this is a cause for war”.
The University of Cyprus has raised the issue with the Archbishopric and the Mayor of Nicosia, with plans to soon approach the Ministry of Finance. The Rector maintains that the lease agreement is binding on all parties involved.
According to sources, the Kapodistrian University raised the matter with the Archbishopric, which is bound by an agreement to lease Faneromeni to the University of Cyprus.
Archbishop George reportedly has not changed his position regarding leasing the building to the University of Cyprus, though he clarified he cannot decide on behalf of the Ministry of Finance.
Regarding other Archbishopric buildings, the Archbishop has indicated to Kapodistrian University officials that the Church is willing to make any necessary buildings available for its operations.
Nicosia Mayor Charalambos Prountzos is reported to have investigated the matter and been informed that there is no question of cancelling the offer and making Faneromeni available to the Kapodistrian University.
The controversy emerged just as preparations were underway to launch tender procedures for renovating the Faneromeni building for the University of Cyprus.
The issue apparently surfaced after interest shown by the Rector of the Kapodistrian University, who approached the Archbishopric, which explained the current situation and existing commitments.
Sources indicate that information circulating within the Archbishopric suggests the ministry is having second thoughts, though no official notification has been provided.
Cost concerns have been raised during discussions, not so much regarding the renovation of the existing building (funded by the Recovery and Resilience Fund) but primarily for the construction of a new building to support the existing structure and the School’s activities.
The total cost of the work is estimated at €10 million, with €5 million for renovating the existing building and another €5 million for constructing a new building behind the current one, specifically in the area of the school’s basketball court. The government would cover the cost of the new building.
Information reaching both the University and the Archbishopric suggests the Ministry of Finance is reconsidering its funding, particularly for the new building.
