**Prountzos Calls for Comprehensive Solutions to Makarios Avenue Challenges**
Nicosia Mayor Charalambos Prountzos addressed ongoing concerns regarding Makarios Avenue, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to the long-standing issues affecting the central thoroughfare of the capital. In a statement to the Cyprus Mail, Prountzos rejected the notion that the closure of the avenue to vehicular traffic was the primary problem facing the area. Instead, he highlighted the potential risk of losing European Union funding if the road were fully reopened to regular traffic.
Prountzos articulated that promoting the idea that reduced vehicular access has led to the decline of the avenue is misleading and detrimental to both shopkeepers and residents. He referenced studies from the Academy of Urbanism and the scientific and technical chamber (Etek), which support his assertion that the challenges facing Makarios Avenue are more complex than simply traffic management.
"We need an integrated and robust solution that can address these long-term issues," Prountzos stated, underscoring the necessity for a comprehensive scientific study of the avenue. However, he noted that the transport ministry has communicated that it will not finance this study, which is critical for understanding the avenue's dynamics.
At the heart of the discussion is the redevelopment project for the commercial triangle, which includes Makarios Avenue and Stasikratous Street. The total cost of the project is €24.7 million, with €21 million provided by the EU. This funding was allocated with specific goals in mind, such as promoting sustainable mobility and reducing reliance on private vehicles.
The city council had previously voted to permit private vehicles on Makarios Avenue during weekdays from 7 am to 9 pm, while restricting access outside these hours to buses, taxis, residents, and employees. However, this decision is pending approval from the transport department, the public works department, and police chief Themistos Arnaoutis. The transport ministry has indicated that it will not endorse any changes unless it can be assured that they will not jeopardize the EU funding.
In a forthcoming meeting, Transport Minister Evi Tsolaki is expected to discuss these pressing issues with Prountzos, as the mayor seeks to navigate the complexities surrounding the avenue's future.
A joint platform representing local shopkeepers has raised alarms about the economic viability of the area, claiming that two-thirds of the shops on Makarios Avenue are currently unoccupied. They are advocating for the restoration of two-way traffic on the southern section of the avenue. However, Prountzos disputed these claims, citing municipal records that indicate 70 out of 106 ground floor premises are occupied, with only 36 vacancies, of which 16 are actively on the market for rent.
To address the concerns of vacant properties, the municipality is considering proposing a tax on idle shops held by landlords who are demanding excessively high rents. This measure aims to incentivize property owners to lower their asking prices and attract tenants.
Prountzos acknowledged that the original redevelopment scheme had its shortcomings, particularly in its reliance on the government to enhance public transportation and cycling infrastructure—an area where he noted the government has not met expectations.
In a related development, a committee representing shopkeepers and residents within the historic old city walls has called for Prountzos's resignation over a preliminary redevelopment proposal for Ledras and Onasagorou streets. They accused him of mishandling public consultations and suggested that a contract with PwC, funded by municipal resources, was intended to manipulate outcomes against the interests of small businesses and residents.
In response, Prountzos firmly denied these allegations, asserting that PwC was engaged as an independent consultant to facilitate a constructive public dialogue regarding urban projects in the old town. He emphasized that this approach aligns with best practices observed in other European cities.
As discussions continue regarding the future of Makarios Avenue and its surrounding areas, Prountzos remains committed to finding a solution that balances the needs of the community, the interests of local businesses, and the requirements of EU funding. The outcome of the upcoming meeting with the transport minister may play a crucial role in shaping the direction of these efforts.