development projects — Larnaca is set to embark on six development projects with a total budget of approximately €50 million in 2026, as announced by Mayor Andreas Vyras. These initiatives aim to enhance urban infrastructure and promote sustainable mobility throughout the city and surrounding areas, including the municipal districts of Livadia and Voroklini.
Development projects: Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan Takes Centre Stage
The largest of the upcoming projects is the Priority Works of Larnaca’s Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan (SUMP), which has a dedicated budget of around €20 million. This project focuses on the construction of bus lanes and cycle paths, promising significant improvements to the transportation framework of the area.
Mayor Vyras explained that the initiative is designed to foster sustainable mobility, offering multiple benefits to the residents of Larnaca. Key features of the plan include the qualitative upgrade of over 15 main avenues and roads, resulting in the creation of 30 kilometres of cycle lanes and 11 kilometres of dedicated bus lanes. Vyras noted that these enhancements are crucial for facilitating better transport options for both cyclists and public transport users.
Transformative Upgrades on Roads and Public Spaces
The project’s design will reorganise existing road structures, introducing one-way streets and reducing vehicle lanes on major thoroughfares. Additional elements include tree planting, road surface reconstruction, and the completion of pavements. These changes are part of the immediate priority actions to promote the Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan, with the Department of Public Works serving as the contracting authority.
Educational Development at TEPAK
Another significant project set to commence this year is the construction of the TEPAK School of Marine Sciences and Sustainable Development, with a budget of €13 million. This facility will be located near the Mackenzie parking area and will house the educational and research operations of the school.
The new building will encompass 4,960 square metres of enclosed and covered space, featuring lecture theatres, classrooms, meeting rooms, staff and student offices, specialised laboratories, and advanced IT infrastructure to facilitate distance learning. Mayor Vyras highlighted the importance of this project in enhancing educational opportunities in Larnaca.
Urban Revitalisation Projects in Livadia and Voroklini
The redevelopment of Archbishop Makarios III Avenue in Livadia, estimated to cost €3.6 million, is another key project on the horizon. This urban planning initiative will involve new paving for roads and pavements using cobblestones, alongside planting, the installation of underground utility services, and the replacement of the water network. Additionally, plans are in place for constructing a new stormwater and sewage system, enhancing church fencing and courtyards, and creating parking spaces with appropriate street furniture and lighting.
In Voroklini, the final phase of the Old Neighbourhood Restoration and Revitalisation project is also anticipated to begin in 2026. This project, with a budget of €2.4 million, aims to transform the road network of Voroklini’s historic core into a shared space that accommodates all users, including those with disabilities. Mayor Vyras stated that the design will enhance safety and functionality, adhering to European standards for shared spaces.
Community Development Initiatives
The long-awaited redevelopment of the Agios Ioannis Parish in Larnaca is expected to commence this year, with an estimated cost of €2.3 million. This urban planning project focuses on improving and reconstructing the existing road network, widening pavements, and upgrading public spaces to promote sustainable mobility.
The design includes the creation of a central square and platforms, the reconstruction of road surfaces on adjacent roads, a review of road signage, enhanced accessibility, and an increase in greenery through tree planting. The intention is to elevate the architectural, urban planning, historical, social, and environmental value of the Agios Ioannis area.
Future Municipal Services at the Old Hospital Site
Finally, Mayor Vyras revealed that a long-discussed project involving the housing of municipal services at the old Larnaca Hospital site is also set to begin within 2026, with an estimated budget of around €9 million. This initiative encompasses the restoration and maintenance of existing listed and non-listed buildings, demolition of non-listed structures, and the completion of new constructions to accommodate Larnaca’s municipal services.
The project will also include landscaping of the external spaces around the buildings, creating a square, planting green spaces on the southern side, and establishing parking facilities on the northern side. Mayor Vyras concluded by asserting the importance of these projects in fostering sustainable development and improving the quality of life for Larnaca’s residents.
