The Cyprus Architects’ Association (Sak) on Friday called for stricter controls and immediate amendments to laws governing the establishment and operation of tourist facilities on the island.
The announcement follows concerns raised by MPs over unchecked investments by foreign individuals and companies particularly in the Paphos district, as well as in Famagusta, Limassol, and Larnaca.
Sak said its intervention was prompted by reports regarding the development of a hotel in the Paphos area – understood to be the Israeli Fattal Group’s investment in Latsi – which has been plagued by multiple legal violations.
The association referenced the “general upward trend of tourist developments without the required permits, in violation of urban planning and environmental regulations.”
It warned that mounting development pressure, combined with delays in issuing permits and inadequate on-site supervision has led to unsustainable practices with severe and irreversible environmental and social consequences.
Unregulated expansions not only threaten the natural environment but also negatively affect residents’ quality of life and compromise the safety of workers and visitors, Sak added.
As a remedy, the association said systematic and strict compliance checks on planning and environmental provisions were needed, as well as simplification of procedures, strengthening of the role of local bodies in decision-making and training in sustainable development principles.
Additionally, Sak advocated for long-term policies promoting balanced tourism growth and the implementation of green certification initiatives.
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