**Nicosia Mayor Refutes Traffic Closure as Main Issue on Makarios Avenue**
Nicosia Mayor Charalambos Prountzos has addressed concerns regarding the ongoing debate over traffic access on Makarios Avenue, stating that the narrative surrounding the closure of the area to vehicles oversimplifies the challenges facing local businesses and residents. In an interview with the Cyprus Mail, Prountzos emphasized that the primary issue at hand is not merely the traffic restrictions but rather the implications of European funding tied to the avenue's redevelopment.
The transport ministry has made it clear that any modifications to Makarios Avenue must ensure compliance with the conditions of the funding received from the European Commission. This funding, part of a €20 million sustainable urban program, aims to promote public transport and cycling while limiting private vehicle access. The ministry has recently declined a request from the Nicosia municipality for financial support to conduct a study that would evaluate potential changes to the avenue, further complicating the situation.
Prountzos articulated the municipality's position, stating, “It is a disservice to the residents and shopkeepers on Makarios Avenue to promote the narrative that closing the area to traffic is the main issue at hand.” He reiterated that the council's decisions must be made with caution to avoid any risk of having to return the EU funds, which could place an additional financial burden on taxpayers.
The mayor pointed out that the dynamics of retail and urban life have shifted significantly since the 1990s, with the rise of shopping malls and online commerce altering consumer behavior. He indicated that the focus should not solely be on traffic access but rather on revitalizing the avenue to attract both businesses and customers. Prountzos cited market analyses conducted by the Academy of Urbanism and the Technical Chamber (Etek), which identified two critical factors for the avenue's revival: the authenticity of shops and the affordability of rents.
In response to the issue of high rents, the municipality plans to introduce a tax on vacant commercial properties held by landlords who are demanding excessive rental prices. This initiative is expected to be proposed next month, aiming to incentivize landlords to lower rents and fill vacant spaces.
Additionally, Prountzos announced that Leonardo Hotels is set to establish a presence on Makarios Avenue, which he views as a positive sign of renewed commercial interest in the area. Despite this, he acknowledged the shortcomings of the original redevelopment plan, noting that it required a complementary investment in public transport and cycling infrastructure, which has not been adequately addressed.
Current statistics reveal that of the 106 ground-floor premises along Makarios Avenue, 70 are occupied, while 36 remain vacant. Only 16 of these vacant properties are currently available for rent. This data contrasts sharply with claims made by a joint platform of shopkeepers, who argue that two-thirds of the shops are empty and have called for the reopening of the avenue to traffic.
The platform has expressed concerns that the closure of Makarios Avenue and nearby Leventis Street has disrupted the commercial center's connection to the historic old walls of Nicosia. They continue to advocate for the restoration of two-way traffic along the southern section of the avenue.
Under the terms of the European funding agreement, the redevelopment project must undergo evaluation over a five-year period to assess whether it has met its objectives. This evaluation period commenced with the final disbursement of EU funds, which occurred recently, meaning that approximately four years remain for the assessment.
As discussions continue, Mayor Prountzos remains focused on addressing the broader issues affecting Makarios Avenue, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach to revitalizing the area rather than fixating solely on traffic access.