**Nicosia Mayor Faces Resignation Demands Amid Makarios Avenue Controversy**
Nicosia, Cyprus – The ongoing disputes surrounding the redevelopment of Makarios Avenue have escalated, leading to calls for the resignation of Nicosia Mayor Charalambos Prountzos. A committee representing local shopkeepers and residents made this demand on Wednesday, shortly after Prountzos presented revitalization plans for the avenue to a delegation from the Democratic Rally (Disy) party.
During a briefing on Tuesday evening, Prountzos outlined the municipality’s achievements over the past two years, highlighting its financial needs and major projects. He estimated the municipality's minimum requirements at €35 million, significantly higher than the €22.5 million grant received from the state. Among the ambitious proposals discussed was the development of the Sopaz area, which Prountzos described as potentially the largest project in Cyprus. He also advocated for the establishment of a park at the old state fair exhibition site, which he believes would benefit both Engomi and western Nicosia.
Regarding Makarios Avenue, Prountzos indicated that the municipality's proposals would be presented to the council in the coming weeks. He expressed optimism about receiving support from the government and the House of Representatives, noting that any modifications to the avenue would require parliamentary approval.
However, the committee representing shopkeepers and residents in the historic old town has vehemently opposed the mayor's approach. They accused him of mishandling public consultations related to the redevelopment of pedestrian areas and alleged that he had engaged in a costly contract with PricewaterhouseCoopers (PWC) to "buy the result" against the interests of small businesses and residents. The committee also criticized the promotion of student dormitories in the area as a misguided solution to local challenges.
In a statement, the committee declared, "We demand the immediate resignation of Mayor Prountzos," asserting that there was "no room for cooperation" and rejecting all of his public and private positions regarding the redevelopment.
The controversy over Makarios Avenue centers on a €20 million redevelopment project, primarily funded by EU cohesion money. The initiative aims to limit private traffic while promoting cycling and public transport. A joint platform representing the commercial core of the area has reported that two-thirds of the shops along the avenue are currently vacant, labeling the street a "dead zone." They are advocating for the restoration of two-way traffic on the southern section of the avenue.
Prountzos has disputed these claims, citing municipal data that indicates 70 out of 106 ground-floor premises are occupied, with only 16 of the 36 vacant units available on the market. He also noted that a council decision to permit private vehicles on the avenue from 7 am to 9 pm is pending approval from the police chief and emphasized the need to avoid triggering repayment of EU funding.
The European Commission has weighed in on the funding issue, stating that the nearly €21 million allocated for the redevelopment of Makarios and Stasikratous is tied to specific sustainable mobility objectives. Any significant changes to the project’s nature or objectives within five years of the final payment could result in funding irregularities. However, the Commission clarified that reopening Makarios to general traffic is not automatically prohibited and would require an individual assessment against the funding conditions.
In addition to the Makarios Avenue situation, residents in the old town are facing disruptions due to ongoing roadworks around Oxi roundabout and Trikoupi street, which have exceeded their original timelines. The municipality maintains that these upgrades are essential for improving underground infrastructure and accessibility.
The House transport committee is scheduled to resume discussions on the traffic arrangements for Makarios Avenue on Thursday, as tensions continue to rise among stakeholders in the area. The outcome of these discussions may have significant implications for the future of the avenue and the ongoing relationship between the municipality and local residents and businesses.