MPs are calling for the government to increase housing availability in Kofinou, a village in Larnaca, to support the descendants of displaced persons. During a session on Tuesday, the House refugees committee, led by chairman and Akel MP Nikos Kettiros, emphasised the need to create a sustainable and appealing housing plan.
Current Housing Situation in Kofinou
Kofinou currently has 400 houses, but only 300 are occupied, according to mukhtar Constantinos Antoniou. Many young residents are forced to live with their parents due to a lack of suitable housing options. Kettiros highlighted that young couples often leave the village for neighbouring areas or even larger cities such as Nicosia, Larnaca, or Limassol, as they have been waiting for over a decade for viable housing solutions.
Committee’s Vision for Sustainable Housing
The committee has suggested that new housing developments be built on unused state-owned land within Kofinou, due to the limited availability of privately-owned land, most of which is Turkish Cypriot-owned. The aim is to create a plan that not only meets the current housing needs but also attracts younger generations to settle in the village.
Kettiros stated, “We do not consider the plan for Kofinou to be closed or a failure,” expressing optimism about future consultations between the Cyprus land development organisation, the interior ministry, and the village council. He mentioned that the latest proposal from the land development organisation had faced pushback from residents, mainly due to its focus on two-bedroom apartments.
Addressing the Needs of Young Families
Many committee members believe that three-bedroom apartments would be more appropriate for young families, making it easier for them to establish their homes in Kofinou. Disy MP Rita Superman echoed this sentiment, advocating for a special regime to facilitate the development of unused state-owned land and urging the government to reconsider its approach to zoning in the area.
Consequences of Inaction
Superman warned that without immediate action from the government, there is a real risk of a silent exodus of young people from Kofinou, stating, “Housing is a right and not a privilege.” This sentiment resonates with many residents who feel that the current housing policies do not adequately address their needs.
Next Steps and Community Engagement
The committee is now awaiting the outcomes of discussions involving various stakeholders to formulate a robust housing plan. There is a sense of urgency among committee members and local residents alike to ensure that Kofinou remains a viable and attractive place for families to live.
As the debate around housing continues, the focus remains on creating a balanced approach that caters to the needs of both current residents and future generations. The challenge lies in addressing both the immediate housing shortages and the long-term sustainability of the village, ensuring Kofinou can thrive in the years to come.
