The city of Limassol has introduced a new system of fines for bars and clubs in the historic centre. The goal is to stop noise problems at night after many years of complaints from people living there.
The new rules work like this: if a venue is too noisy, it will first get two fines of €85. But if the same place is too noisy again in one week, it can get a much larger fine of up to €3,400. The city decided this after a special study. Officials checked about 30 places over five nights. They found more than half were louder than the legal limit, especially after midnight.
A city councillor, Maria Diamantidou, said they are working with the police on this plan. She explained that for businesses that continue to be noisy, "a fine is issued, and then it goes to court." She believes Limassol is the first city in Cyprus to tackle the problem in this strong way.
People living in the area are very unhappy. They say the noise is "unacceptable" and makes daily life difficult. They were so frustrated that they have even started a legal case against the city because the old rules were not enforced well.
Some bar owners want a clearer system so businesses and residents can live together peacefully. However, other owners say they do not even know about the new measures. This shows it may be difficult to make sure everyone follows the new rules, especially as some venues do not have a permit to operate.
The success of this plan now depends on good cooperation with the police and how the city deals with unlicensed businesses.