Polis is set to undergo major developments worth at least €100 million next year, as announced by Mayor Yiotis Papachristofi. Speaking to the Cyprus News Agency, he outlined a series of ambitious projects aimed at revitalising the town and enhancing its infrastructure.
Exciting Plans for Local Infrastructure
The planned projects include an expansion of the Latchi port, a new sewerage system, and significant renovations to the centres of Polis Chrysochous and the neighbouring village of Prodromi. Additionally, local archaeological sites will also see improvements. Mayor Papachristofi emphasised that these initiatives are the result of extensive preparatory work undertaken by the municipality over recent years.
Connecting Polis and Paphos
In conjunction with these developments, the government has announced a new tender for the first phase of a road project connecting Polis Chrysochous and Paphos. This initial phase will link the village of Ayia Marinouda, just outside Paphos, to Stroumbi, which lies roughly halfway between the two locations, covering a distance of approximately 15.5 kilometres.
The new road is designed to accommodate two lanes of traffic along with a crawler lane where necessary. However, it is important to note that it will not be constructed as a dual carriageway at this stage. The estimated cost of the tender is €90.2 million plus VAT, and the project is expected to take around 30 months to complete.
Reversing Youth Migration
Mayor Papachristofi expressed hope that these developments will help reverse the trend of young people leaving the area in search of better opportunities elsewhere, both within Cyprus and abroad. He stated, “Our goal is for Polis Chrysochous and the surrounding area to have a proper image with quality infrastructure, so that we can attract people and develop in terms of tourism.”
He highlighted that by improving local facilities and infrastructure, the town can create more job opportunities, bolster tourism, and support the agricultural and livestock sectors, which would benefit from increased local sales.
Supporting Local Sectors
The mayor reiterated that the planned developments will benefit all sectors of the economy. He explained, “These planned developments will help all sectors.” This holistic approach aims to create a vibrant community that can sustain itself economically while enhancing the quality of life for its residents.
Future Prospects for Polis Chrysochous
With these major developments on the horizon, Polis Chrysochous is poised to become a focal point for growth and progress on the island. The emphasis on quality infrastructure is expected to attract both residents and visitors, leading to a more dynamic local economy.
As the first phase of the road project moves forward, there is cautious optimism within the municipality that a successful bidder will be found to continue construction from where it left off last year. This follows the cancellation of a previous contract with the Greek construction company Intrakat.
Community Engagement and Support
Engaging the community in these developments will be crucial. The municipality plans to involve local residents in discussions about the future of Polis Chrysochous and how best to implement these projects for maximum benefit. This inclusive approach aims to ensure that the developments align with the needs and desires of the people who live and work in the area.
As the plans for the €100 million investment unfold, the mayor’s commitment to revitalising Polis Chrysochous reflects a broader vision of sustainable growth and development for the region. The town’s scenic landscape, rich history, and potential for tourism make it an ideal candidate for such transformative projects.
