The demolition of dangerous buildings in Larnaca has been set in motion, with officials taking decisive steps to safeguard residents and the community. The focus keyword, ‘dangerous buildings’, highlights the urgency behind recent actions following a partial collapse of a house that had been home to three women.
Last week, the President of the Larnaca District Local Government Organisation (DLGO), Angelos Hadjicharalambous, confirmed that demolition efforts began on Thursday and were completed by Friday. Thankfully, the women had vacated the property prior to the collapse, and no injuries were reported.
Dangerous buildings: Next Steps for Other Properties
Attention is now turning to another property in the Sotiros area, where a roof collapse occurred recently. Plans are in place for its demolition next week, alongside an adjacent building that was not previously documented in the DLGO’s records. The inspection carried out by private consultants and DLGO officials has led to the identification of 25 potentially dangerous buildings across Larnaca.
Evacuations Prompted by Safety Concerns
In another part of the city, 40 residents of a dilapidated apartment block in Faneromeni were compelled to evacuate after a notice was posted by the DLGO on May 20. Although residents have successfully found alternative accommodation, the building’s owners have yet to secure the property. The DLGO is preparing to collaborate with these owners to seal off the building, while also considering legal measures for possession if necessary.
Addressing More Safety Risks
The DLGO has also reached out to the owners of a second apartment block in Chrysopolitissa, asking them to address safety concerns within a week. At this stage, residents of that building are not required to evacuate. Furthermore, letters will soon be sent to four additional apartment block owners, including one connected to a tragic incident involving a foreign national who lost his life while evading immigration checks.
Accountability and Future Measures
Hadjicharalambous emphasised that all building owners must take responsibility for the safety of their properties and are obliged to carry out necessary repairs. He remarked on the importance of owners knowing who resides in their flats, particularly those that are rented out. To enforce compliance, the DLGO has the option to impose administrative fines of €20,000 where appropriate.
In their efforts to ensure public safety, the DLGO is coordinating closely with the local police, fire service, and Larnaca Municipality. Their collective aim is to act swiftly and effectively in addressing the risks posed by dangerous buildings throughout the district.
