sustainable works — The ongoing sustainable works in Nicosia’s city centre are causing significant disruption as renovation projects continue to unfold. The latest initiative, aimed at transforming Trikoupis street into a “creative business neighbourhood,” was inaugurated recently. However, access to this vibrant area is currently hampered by ongoing construction at the nearby Oxi roundabout.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
On Wednesday, officials announced that the Oxi roundabout will be closed to traffic starting Thursday and is expected to remain closed until December. Furthermore, car parks located within the moat of the historic Venetian walls will also be unavailable, prompting concerns from local residents and shop owners regarding the new wave of inconvenience.
The ambitious project on Trikoupis street is funded by the Thalia 2021-2027 EU programme, with a total budget of €5.4 million. The aim is to complete the works before the end of 2027, thereby revitalising the historic centre of Nicosia.
As part of the broader urban renovation efforts, other areas in the city centre are also undergoing significant changes, including roadworks off central Makarios III avenue. This is part of a larger strategy to improve traffic flow and enhance the connectivity between the modern city and the historic walled town.
Sustainable works: Nicosia’s Vision for a Green Future
Nicosia’s mayor, Charalambos Prountzos, presented the new vision for Trikoupis street on Tuesday, highlighting the city’s commitment to becoming greener, more sustainable, and inclusive. He described the street as a vital link between the modern city and its historical roots.
The renovations include not just new roads and pavements, but also the installation of underground public utility networks and smart city features. Moreover, the project focuses on enhancing public spaces, featuring new lighting, the planting of trees, and the restoration of 53 building facades—16 of which are listed for their architectural significance.
Creating a Hub for Professionals and Students
This creative business neighbourhood is designed to attract new professionals, creators, and businesses, thereby promoting the historical centre as a vibrant hub for students and academics. Mayor Prountzos emphasised that these improvements are part of a larger plan to reshape Nicosia’s image, which encompasses upgrades to roads, parks, pavements, and overall infrastructure.
The municipality also announced that the restoration of the inner perimeter arch of the moat would be entering a new phase on Thursday. Consequently, the road from the Constanza bastion to the Oxi roundabout will also be closed to traffic during this phase. The Constanza bastion car park is set to remain closed until the completion of works, which is estimated to be mid-December.
Ongoing Traffic Management Amidst Renovations
As construction progresses, various roads in the city centre will continue to face closures. The exit from Thermopyles street towards Oxi roundabout is expected to remain closed until late July, while the eastern section of Constantine Paleologos avenue will be shut from the intersection with Makarios II square to the Constanza bastion car park. These works include the installation of underground utilities and facade upgrades.
During this period of disruption, traffic management strategies will be implemented to divert vehicles effectively, aiming to minimise inconvenience to commuters and residents alike. These efforts are also funded through the Thalia 2021-2027 programme, reinforcing the city’s commitment to modernisation and sustainability.
