**Nicosia Municipality Initiates Legal Action Over Former Othello Cinema Nuisance**
Nicosia, Cyprus – The Nicosia Municipality has announced that it is taking legal action regarding the former Othello cinema located in Engomi, citing concerns over nuisance and unhealthy conditions at the site. The decision to sue follows a series of inspections and notices that have not resulted in the necessary compliance from the property’s owners or occupants.
In a statement released on September 9, 2026, the Municipality clarified that it has instructed the immediate filing of a lawsuit against those responsible for the conditions at the cinema. The lawsuit aims to secure court orders that would mandate the removal of the identified nuisances and restore legality to the site.
The former cinema has been under scrutiny due to its deteriorating condition, which has raised public safety concerns. The District Local Government Organisation (DLGO) has previously assessed the building as unsuitable and dangerous, leading to the site being blocked off and fenced to protect the public.
The Nicosia Municipality has emphasized that the situation involves two distinct issues that fall under different authorities. While the DLGO is responsible for assessing the structural safety of the building, the Municipality is focused on addressing the nuisance and health hazards that have arisen at the site.
According to the Municipality's Health Service, inspections conducted at the former cinema identified the owners and/or occupants of the property. Legal notices were subsequently served, demanding that the necessary actions be taken to alleviate the nuisance. However, the Municipality reported that compliance has not been achieved, prompting the current legal action.
The Municipality expressed concern that the dangerous condition of the building has made it hazardous for its Health Officers to enter the site for inspections. It reiterated its commitment to public health and safety, stating that it takes issues affecting residents' quality of life very seriously. The Municipality also plans to continue monitoring the situation closely and will exercise its legal powers in collaboration with the DLGO and other relevant authorities.
In its statement, the Municipality highlighted the importance of delineating the responsibilities of the various authorities involved in this matter. It stressed that each authority must be attributed the actions and responsibilities that genuinely belong to it, particularly in matters concerning public safety.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the Nicosia Municipality remains focused on ensuring compliance and addressing the health and safety concerns associated with the former Othello cinema. The outcome of the lawsuit will determine the next steps in restoring the site and ensuring the well-being of the surrounding community.
This legal action comes amidst other significant news in Cyprus, including discussions regarding potential presidential candidates for the 2028 elections and an assessment of a recent data leak involving the President and other officials, which has been determined not to be linked to hacking.
For now, the former Othello cinema remains a focal point of concern for local authorities and residents alike, as the Municipality works to resolve the ongoing issues.