A feasibility study for the redevelopment of Nicosia’s SOPAZ industrial area is in its final stages and will be delivered around 20 January 2026, with early signs pointing to a transformation of eastern Nicosia.
Nicosia Mayor Charalambos Prountzos told philenews that working meetings and preliminary presentations have delivered encouraging messages about the project, which aims to upgrade Kaimakli, Pallouriotissa and northern Aglantzia.
The mayor’s vision is to transform SOPAZ from a degraded industrial zone into an environmentally upgraded area serving as a pillar of economic, academic and research activity for the city and country.
Central to the redevelopment is an Innovation Zone, which fits with SOPAZ’s location between the University of Cyprus and Frederick University. The zone will include offices and laboratories, alongside new residential units.
The municipality is examining the creation of a new school and sports facilities in the area. Prountzos confirmed the municipality is also exploring a large conference centre, bigger than existing venues in Cyprus, that could host cultural events as well as conferences.
The feasibility study, prepared by an international firm, will be submitted to the Municipal Council before going to the government for review by a committee the president appointed on 30 June 2025. The municipality has also budgeted for an architectural design competition with ETEK, to be announced soon, followed by public consultation.
The redevelopment will include green space and recreation areas covering tens of thousands of square metres. Student dormitories are expected, given the proximity to two universities and the high demand for affordable housing that currently limits options for young couples in the area.
The reconstruction of Famagusta Avenue is key to upgrading the area, Prountzos said. The Urban Planning Department project is expected to be completed in approximately 12 months and will improve road safety, traffic flow and flood protection whilst connecting eastern Nicosia to the Nicosia-Limassol motorway.
The total area for redevelopment approaches one million square metres in a strategic location. The municipality and local community groups are jointly pushing for the Border Areas Scheme to be extended to the area.
