**Green Light for Paralimni Town Centre Makeover**
Paralimni, Cyprus – The Paralimni-Deryneia municipality has received planning permission for a significant redevelopment project aimed at revitalizing the town's central area. The permit was granted on August 10, marking a crucial step in the municipality's broader development agenda, which seeks to enhance local commercial activity and improve the urban environment.
The redevelopment plan encompasses a variety of improvements, including the replacement of the existing road surface, upgrades to pavements, and the introduction of new green spaces and tree planting. Additionally, the project will create service areas for shops and visitors, as well as new parking spaces. These enhancements are intended to make the town centre more accessible and user-friendly for residents, businesses, and tourists alike.
The municipality has articulated its vision for the project, stating that it aims to create “a modern, functional and accessible urban environment” that enhances the daily lives of residents. Furthermore, it is expected to bolster commercial and social activities in the area while improving the overall image of Paralimni among visitors. The design will also focus on emphasizing the town’s unique identity, ensuring that the redevelopment respects its history and traditions.
The latest approval comes after a revision of the initial plans, which originally proposed full pedestrianization of the town centre. Following public consultations on traffic management, the municipal council decided to retain vehicle access through the area. The revised plans include proposed one-way traffic systems affecting several streets, including Griva Digeni, Constantinoupoleos, Tassou Markou, and Kolokotroni. These changes are designed to improve traffic flow while also enhancing the existing paved areas, introducing new greenery, and creating open squares.
Financial estimates for the project have evolved alongside the design changes. An official government program announced in February 2025 allocated €11.2 million for the square and the broader town-centre redevelopment. More recent estimates from Paralimni-Deryneia Mayor Giorgos Nikolettos suggest that the square will cost approximately €4 million plus VAT, while the overall redevelopment is projected at €7 million plus VAT. The municipality has not provided an updated cost in its latest announcement.
However, construction cannot commence immediately. The municipality must first complete final drawings and technical studies before applying for a building permit and obtaining the necessary approvals. This redevelopment is part of a larger initiative that includes three separate projects aimed at transforming central Paralimni.
One of these projects involves the construction of a new square near the Ayios Georgios church. The planning application for this square was submitted on November 4, 2025, and received approval on February 4, with formal handover to the municipality the following day. The square is designed to feature an events area, park spaces, monuments, and extensive greenery, with a strong emphasis on accessibility. It is anticipated to serve as a new public gathering place for the community, accommodating large numbers of visitors.
The municipality plans to initiate the construction tender for the new square during the first quarter of 2027. Meanwhile, work is already underway on a multi-storey car park located on Antonis Papadopoulos street. Construction began on March 4, 2025, under an 18-month contract awarded to N. Gavriel & Sons Ltd. This facility will provide parking for 296 vehicles, including designated spaces for 17 disabled drivers and three electric cars, along with a lift for improved accessibility. The construction cost for the car park is estimated at €6.76 million, with a significant portion financed by the department of town planning and housing as part of an urban planning initiative. The broader Famagusta development program has placed the total value of this project at €8 million.
As the Paralimni municipality moves forward with the detailed design and building-permit stages of the redevelopment, residents and stakeholders are encouraged to stay informed about the project's progress and upcoming phases. The transformation of Paralimni’s town centre is set to enhance not only the urban landscape but also the quality of life for its residents and visitors.