Greens cautiously optimistic after Akamas local plan published

Green groups breathed a sigh of relief on Friday after the environment department’s long-awaited opinion on the Akamas local development plan came to light.

“We managed to block the worst of it [development],” an activist told the Cyprus Mail, noting that the provision for isolated housing is out, along with the Ineia-Drousia tourist zoning now down by 50 per cent.

Other cautious victories – nothing is final, yet – for the environmentalists are in Androlykou, where the extension of the quarry has been blocked. That is, however, subject to review after three years.

But Akamas watchers are hesitant to celebrate too early, noting that they need more time to analyse the dense 70-page opinion, dated August 25.

A major victory for the environmentalists is the prohibition of scattered and isolated housing, as the department notes that although the road infrastructure is to be upgraded – close proximity to a registered road will not grant the right to construct a residence.

Other conditions for further developments are that they be ‘offset’ by planting trees, such as along primary and secondary roads as well as parking spaces.

Indicative of the ‘win’ for environmentalists is perhaps most notable from Ineia’s reaction, best illustrated by the community’s leader Yiangos Tsivicos – who threatened to dig up ‘fake’ turtle nests.

Indeed, the proposed tourist zoning for Ineia-Kathikas has been reduced by 50 per cent with the rest subject to further restrictions. Notably, developments in Ineia’s tourist zone (Τ3δ2) will be subject to considerations of the landscape as concerns their style, lighting and wider integration within the area. Ineia’s protection zone (Δα3) also has notable restrictions, to protect distinct rock formations, such as both state and privately owned land being barred from the construction of agricultural warehouses, greenhouses and parking spots.

There are a series of detailed restrictions across the various Akamas villages’ zoning permits, with overall development notably reduced from what was originally proposed.

Neo Chorio faces similar restrictions as Ineia. But it also had other notable limitations imposed, such as developments in its Τ3α zone to be treated as those in Τ3α2α zoning – meaning a maximum of two floors (8.2m) for hotels and one floor (5m) for the rest of developments. Also in Neo Chorio, the tourist zones of Τ3α and Τ3α2α will be subject to light pollution controls, as will be set out in a to-be created guideline. Further, the two tourist zones will not be valid in areas with ravines and gorges.

Nearby, the proposed expansion of Drouseia’s residential zone Κα10β should not be extended west of the existing Κα10 zone. The expansion of Kathikas’ tourist zone Τ3δ5 was also axed.

Elsewhere, eco-tourism developments within the agricultural zone Γα2, and further than 300 metres from the Natura 2000 boundaries must have a minimum lot area of 10,000 square metres.

Other restrictions are that parking spots shall not be permitted within the Natura 2000 areas which fall under the Δα1-ΤΑ, Γα2 and Δα3 zones (not including the state forest land).

Similarly, refreshment spots – loosely defined, but understood to mean small shops such as kiosks – will not be allowed within Natura areas within the zones of Δα1-ΤΑ.

Visitable farmsteads within the Γα2 zones and 200 metres from Natura areas will not be permitted.

Further reactions and commentary are expected in the coming days as political parties, communities and the public have had time to digest and sift through the lengthy opinion.

The interior ministry must now revise its plans taking into account the environment department’s assessment.