A new cross-border programme, “Inclusive Routes,” aims to improve access to nature sites, particularly for individuals with disabilities and those facing mobility challenges.
- A new cross-border programme, “Inclusive Routes,” aims to improve access to nature sites, particularly for individuals with disabilities and those facing mobility challenges.
- This project has a clear focus on inclusivity, targeting not only people with disabilities but also families with children, the elderly, and others who may encounter temporary mobility difficulties.
- Furthermore, the department plans to integrate universal design principles into future forest infrastructure, promoting both environmental protection and social inclusion.
Launched in cooperation with Greece, the forestry department announced the initiative on Friday, highlighting its commitment to making forest recreation areas, cultural heritage sites, and tourist destinations more accessible.
The initiative includes the construction and upgrading of trails, improvements to picnic areas, and the establishment of designated observation points and parking spaces tailored for individuals with disabilities. Additionally, hospitality and recreation facilities will undergo renovations to ensure they cater to a wider audience.
This project has a clear focus on inclusivity, targeting not only people with disabilities but also families with children, the elderly, and others who may encounter temporary mobility difficulties.
Work will take place across several key locations within Cyprus, including the Platania and Livadi tou Passia picnic sites in the Troodos national forest park, the Kampi loop in the Machairas national forest park, Mavralis in Paphos, and the Cape Greco environmental information centre. Other notable areas include Stavros tis Psokas, Athalassa, and Limassol national forest parks.
“Inclusive Routes” is being coordinated with five partner organisations from Cyprus and Greece, such as the Cyprus Paraplegics Organisation, the municipality of Syros–Ermoupolis, and the Limassol district development agency, among others. This collaborative effort underscores the importance of community involvement in promoting accessibility.
The forestry department expressed that the project aims to marry environmental respect with innovative accessibility solutions, allowing all individuals to enjoy natural sites safely and comfortably. To this end, digital tools will be introduced to inform the public about the new measures, facilitating easier navigation within these forest areas.
Furthermore, the department plans to integrate universal design principles into future forest infrastructure, promoting both environmental protection and social inclusion.
