**BirdLife Cyprus and Terra Cypria Raise Alarm Over Lady’s Mile Beach Activities**
*By Alexandra Epifaniou*
Environmental organizations BirdLife Cyprus and Terra Cypria have expressed renewed concerns regarding activities at Lady’s Mile beach, a protected area of significant ecological importance. The groups have called on the British bases administration to provide clarity on how it ensures compliance with legal and environmental obligations for business operations within the area.
Lady’s Mile beach is recognized for its critical role in supporting various wildlife, particularly during the summer season, which coincides with the breeding periods for sea turtles and numerous bird species that rely on the coastal and wetland habitats. The organizations emphasize that the summer months are particularly sensitive, noting that increased human activity could disrupt these vital ecosystems.
Concerns have been raised about several activities occurring in the area, particularly nighttime events and increased beach usage during evening hours. The presence of bright lighting and noise pollution has also been flagged as detrimental to the local wildlife. Furthermore, the groups pointed out the extensive infrastructure developments, such as the installation of sunbeds, which are legally required to be removed between 7 PM and 7 AM. The introduction of water sports in the area has also been highlighted as a potential threat to the ecological integrity of Lady’s Mile.
BirdLife Cyprus and Terra Cypria noted that the British bases administration has previously enforced restrictions on activities in the area, demonstrating that regulatory measures can be effectively implemented when there is sufficient administrative will. However, they have observed a concerning deterioration in regulatory enforcement over the past five years, which has prompted their call for a more transparent regulatory framework from the Limassol and Kourion municipalities.
In response to the concerns raised, the British bases administration acknowledged the challenges of balancing recreational activities with the need to protect the natural environment of Lady’s Mile. They stated that safeguarding the region's ecological health and the safety of visitors is a top priority.
As the summer season approaches, the ongoing dialogue between environmental organizations and the British bases administration will be crucial in ensuring that Lady’s Mile beach remains a safe haven for wildlife while still accommodating the recreational needs of the public.