**Proposal for Organised Beach at Lara Bay Faces Backlash**
The proposal by Yiangos Tsivikos, the deputy mayor of Ineia, to establish an organised beach at Lara Bay has sparked renewed controversy following recent violations in the protected area. The placement of umbrellas, sunbeds, and tents has drawn sharp criticism from environmental groups, particularly the Animal Party, which argues that such developments could jeopardize one of Cyprus' most significant nesting grounds for sea turtles.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Animal Party expressed strong opposition to Tsivikos' proposal, emphasizing that Lara Bay is crucial for the nesting of both the loggerhead turtle (*Caretta caretta*) and the green turtle (*Chelonia mydas*). The party highlighted that the area has been under protective restrictions since 1989, aimed at preserving the delicate ecosystem and ensuring the safety of turtle nesting sites.
Tsivikos has defended his proposal by suggesting that the local population has coexisted with the natural environment of Akamas for centuries. He called for a "sustainable solution for the coexistence of humans, the environment, and turtles," indicating a desire to balance tourism and conservation efforts. However, the Animal Party countered that the historical presence of humans in the Akamas region should not be used to justify increased human activity, especially given the current scale of tourism pressure.
The fisheries department has reiterated the existing regulations that prohibit the use of umbrellas, sunbeds, tents, and caravans in the Lara-Toxeftra area from June to September. Additionally, visitors are not allowed to stay on the beach from one hour before dusk until one hour after dawn during this period. These measures are designed to protect turtle nesting beaches, and the department has promised to take appropriate action against any violations.
Environmental advocates, including the union Opok, have called for increased patrols and stricter enforcement of the existing regulations. They have raised concerns about how the illegal placements of beach equipment occurred despite the supposed controls in place. The Lara-Toxeftra area is part of the Natura 2000 network, a European Union initiative aimed at protecting biodiversity and natural habitats.
This is not the first time the idea of an organised beach at Lara has been proposed. A similar initiative was brought forward in 2023 but was ultimately halted after the fisheries department determined that allowing umbrellas and sunbeds would be incompatible with the area's protective status.
As the debate continues, the future of Lara Bay remains uncertain. Environmentalists are advocating for the preservation of this vital nesting ground, while local authorities are exploring ways to accommodate both tourism and conservation. The outcome of this conflict may set a precedent for how Cyprus balances its natural heritage with the demands of the tourism industry.