limassol mall — The scrutiny surrounding the proposals for two shopping centres in eastern Limassol has intensified as local authorities voice their concerns.
- limassol mall — The scrutiny surrounding the proposals for two shopping centres in eastern Limassol has intensified as local authorities voice their concerns.
- “Only in this way can we create a project that truly serves the city and not just the car,” he remarked, highlighting the need for a shift towards a more community-focused development model.
Limassol mall: Examination Process Underway
The examination of the development applications began in late March, led by the five-member Derogations Council. This process is expected to unfold over several sessions, culminating in final decisions regarding the proposals.
As reported by Entrepreneurial Limassol, a periodical published by the Limassol Chamber of Commerce (Evel), the council is currently engaged in a thorough review of the applications before reaching conclusive recommendations.
Council’s Role and Next Steps
Soteris Ktorides, president of the Council for the Study of Derogations, stated, “The process will continue in further meetings until final decisions are reached.” While no specific timeline has been outlined for the submission of recommendations to the Cabinet, the council previously convened in December 2025 to discuss related matters.
During that meeting, the council approved the minutes of two public hearings held on October 10, 2025, which addressed the applications. The first application was put forward by The Mall of Limassol Ltd, while a joint proposal was submitted by C.A.C. Papantoniou LTD, Suzana and Giannakis Christodoulou, and Jumbo Trading LTD.
Local Opposition and Concerns
Local authorities and stakeholders have expressed apprehension regarding the derogation-based licensing requests for the proposed shopping centres. Kyriacos Xydias, mayor of Amathounta, noted a shift in outlook, stating, “Initially I believed that both malls would be approved.” He elaborated that, due to local interventions, it is now more probable that only one licence will be granted, likely with significant modifications to the original proposals from the investors.
A Shift Towards Sustainable Urban Development
The Derogations Council has sought proposals from the municipality of Amathounta, developed with the assistance of the University of Cyprus, focusing on sustainable urban mobility principles. During a public hearing, the mayor rejected the initial proposal for a shopping centre on Agios Athanasios Avenue and instead presented a counterproposal.
This alternative vision aims to create a model for sustainable urban mobility while promoting a progressive urban planning approach for Limassol. “We see this project as an opportunity to create a new, modern development hub,” Xydias stated, urging state authorities, planners, and investors to adopt a more expansive perspective.
He highlighted the importance of designing a shopping centre that fosters micromobility, public transport, walking, and cycling, moving away from car-centric planning. “If we can design a shopping centre that combines commercial activity with sustainable mobility, we are ready to participate in a discussion that will reshape the area,” he added.
Emphasising Green Infrastructure and Community Integration
Xydias stressed the necessity for green infrastructure, pedestrian zones, urban equipment, and safe crossings to ensure the project integrates organically with neighbouring areas, parks, and the industrial zone. In this context, the municipality proposed the development of a comprehensive master plan for the entire area, rooted in sustainable mobility principles and a cohesive strategy for road networks, transport systems, and public spaces.
“Only in this way can we create a project that truly serves the city and not just the car,” he remarked, highlighting the need for a shift towards a more community-focused development model.
Opposition from Limassol’s Mayor
Limassol mayor Yiannis Armeftis has voiced strong opposition to the ‘The Mall of Limassol’ project, which is owned by Atterbury Europe and located on Spyrou Kyprianou Avenue. “Such developments are destructive for the city,” he warned, indicating potential significant repercussions.
Armeftis argued that attempts to improve the project’s image through proposed compensatory measures are insufficient, especially in light of the substantial traffic and environmental challenges expected to arise from such developments.
Broader Local Consensus on the Issue
Written positions submitted to the council by the Limassol District Local Government Organisation (EOA) reflect a consensus among local municipalities, reinforcing the shared opposition to the proposals. This collective stance highlights the need for careful consideration of the potential impacts on the community and environment.
As discussions continue, the focus remains on balancing development with sustainability and the needs of local residents, a challenge that will require collaboration between stakeholders, planners, and the community.
