The transport ministry has announced a decision to expand Latsi harbour, jetties, docking spots and the creation of a breakwater.

According to the minister of transport Yiannis Karousos, the project reflects the Anastasiades government’s political willingness develop rural areas.

The decision to expand the port was taken after considering the trend and rising interest inr marine tourism in the Mediterranean and Cyprus specifically, the minister said.

“The benefits of expanding the port are multiple and affect various sectors such as the economy and tourism in the area of Polis Chrysochous and Cyprus in general,” he added.

“The creation of new docking spots in combination with high quality tourist infrastructure will elevate the area of Polis Chrysochous into a popular destination for quality tourism offering to both local and foreign visitors a complete tourist experience with a unique product.”

The rise in demand for pleasure boat docking spots led the Cyprus Ports Authority (CPA) to decide on the transformation of the port of Latsi into a functional and modern space in line with the needs of port users.

According to CPA, the expansion of the port will cost €53.5 million. This decision was preceded by extensive discussion and a viability study.