Nicosia Mayor Charalambos Prountzos is set to send letters to the President and the ministers of Energy and Finance, following a unanimous city council decision to transform the State Fair site in Engomi into a Western Nicosia Metropolitan Park.
The 250,000-square-metre project has sparked debate over the area’s development, particularly regarding transport infrastructure. The mayor favours relocating a proposed park-and-ride facility to a site opposite the Mall of Nicosia, contrary to the Transport Ministry’s plans.
“We’re pursuing something smart, simple, and functional that won’t impact nature. It will include green spaces and sports facilities,” Prountzos said, emphasising that the project would not involve expensive buildings or luxuries.
A pre-election poll revealed that 90% of respondents supported creating a park with minimal development, though the mayor acknowledged that some facilities, such as cafes and the existing Citizens’ Service Centre, would be necessary to serve visitors.
Prountzos defended the park concept, citing Western Nicosia’s intensive development over the past 40 years. “The area has experienced unprecedented construction and commercial activity, high-density development, and hosts two universities. With its growing young population, a green space is essential”, he said.
The council has called on parliamentary parties to block funding for any concrete-heavy development of the site and has proposed a 36-month transition period for specific facilities to continue hosting conferences and events currently held at the exhibition grounds.
Read more:
