**Akamas Land Subsidy Applications Open Next Week**
The Ministry of Agriculture in Cyprus has announced that landowners in the Akamas area will soon be able to apply for financial assistance aimed at preserving the region's natural environment. Starting October 1, 2023, and continuing until November 15, 2023, applications for the subsidy program, referred to as ‘Measure 1’, will be available online at www.support-akamas.com.
This initiative is designed to encourage landowners to refrain from developing their plots, thereby contributing to the conservation of the Akamas landscape and its biodiversity. The program targets private land within designated urban and agricultural zones, which collectively encompass approximately 93,460 decares (equivalent to 934.6 square kilometers).
Under Measure 1, landowners can receive a subsidy of €600 per hectare, with the potential for annual payments reaching up to €6,600 for each beneficiary from 2024 to 2028. The total budget allocated for this measure is €25 million, with plans for reassessment after the funding period concludes.
The Ministry has reported a positive response from the local community regarding the subsidy program and is encouraging all eligible landowners to take advantage of this opportunity. However, the ministry has established specific conditions that beneficiaries must adhere to in order to qualify for the subsidies.
Landowners whose properties are used for agricultural purposes may continue to cultivate their land and can still participate in existing Agricultural Payment Organisation schemes. However, plots that are not currently in use must remain undeveloped to ensure the preservation of natural vegetation. Additionally, landowners are prohibited from erecting fences or making any alterations that would disrupt the natural state of their property. Properties that have been subject to illegal development are ineligible for the subsidy.
The application process has been designed to be user-friendly, requiring only four clicks to submit an application. To apply, users must possess a verified CYlogin account, which facilitates the automatic documentation of land ownership. For those who may have questions or require further assistance, the Ministry has provided a support line at 22408952 and an email address at [email protected].
As the application period approaches, landowners in the Akamas region are urged to prepare their documentation and consider the benefits of participating in this environmental preservation initiative. The program not only aims to protect the unique ecological characteristics of the Akamas area but also provides financial support to landowners who choose to prioritize conservation over development.