Nicosia is poised for its most significant urban regeneration in decades, with ambitious plans unveiled yesterday to transform the western part of the capital. A comprehensive study presented to the House Interior Committee outlines a vision for a sprawling metropolitan park at the State Fairgrounds and a dynamic innovation zone within the Sopaz area. This initiative, driven by the Nicosia Municipality and supported by various stakeholders, aims to address a critical deficit in green spaces and cultivate a burgeoning hub for technological advancement.
For years, residents of western Nicosia, particularly in the Engomi district, have grappled with the consequences of unchecked urban expansion, which has largely bypassed the provision of substantial public green areas. Mayor Charalambos Proutzos articulated the urgency, stating, "After four decades of urban growth in Engomi and almost no large green spaces in western Nicosia, it’s time to take decisive steps." The proposed metropolitan park, envisioned to occupy the State Fairgrounds, is set to become the largest urban green lung in Cyprus, designed with minimal built infrastructure—less than 10% of the total area—to harmonise with the surrounding environment. This extensive park is intended to offer vital recreational and sporting facilities, significantly enhancing the quality of life for the city's inhabitants.
Complementing the green initiative, the Sopaz area is earmarked for a dedicated innovation zone. This development seeks to harness Nicosia's considerable intellectual capital, stemming from its numerous universities, researchers, and a vibrant student population, to foster business and technological growth. The zone is planned to incorporate a diverse range of facilities, including spaces for conferences, exhibitions, and cutting-edge innovation. To catalyse this development, incentives will be offered to attract investors, thereby positioning Nicosia as a competitive centre for innovation.
The strategic integration of stormwater retention lakes is another crucial component of the master plan. These features are designed not only to manage water runoff and mitigate the persistent issue of flooding in Engomi but also to provide a sustainable source of irrigation for the expansive new park. The proposed changes necessitate a thorough revision of Nicosia’s local plans, a process expected to be completed and implemented between 2026 and 2027.
The presentation to the House Interior Committee marked a pivotal moment, initiating a formal review process. A tripartite committee, comprising representatives from the city, the Chamber of Commerce (ΕΒΕΛ), and the central government, is scheduled to convene in March to deliberate on the presented study. This collaborative approach underscores the commitment to a cohesive and effective implementation of the ambitious redevelopment strategy. Local initiatives, such as "For a more livable Engomi," and elected representatives from across the political spectrum, including AKEL MP Aristos Damianou, DISY MP Dimitris Dimitriou, and Green Party leader Stavros Papadouris, have expressed their support, highlighting the broad consensus behind this transformative project. Residents can anticipate witnessing the initial stages of this significant urban metamorphosis within the next five years, signalling a new era of development and enhanced livability for western Nicosia.