Limassol suspends Blue Flag applications amid water concerns

Cyprus’ coastal policy in Limassol has entered a new phase, as local authorities and the national operator CYMEPA agreed not to submit applications for Blue Flag awards for beaches in the greater Limassol area.

According to details published by Entrepreneurial Limassol, a periodical published by the Limassol Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Evel), the decision was taken jointly by local authorities and CYMEPA, with officials emphasising that it does not reflect a deterioration in water quality.

“This decision does not imply any degradation of the quality of seawater,” said Shipping Deputy Ministry director Theodoulos Mesimeris.

Authorities will still participate in CYMEPA information events, where they will explain the rationale behind the move and address public concerns.

At the same time, officials are preparing to present enhanced beach monitoring measures for Limassol, based on a coordinated action plan developed in cooperation with all relevant stakeholders.

“The action plan has already been prepared and sent to all involved bodies and ministries for approval so that its implementation can begin,” Mesimeris said.

The plan includes additional immediate actions and preventive measures aimed at monitoring and responding to marine pollution incidents.

A key component involves the intensification of water quality monitoring, with more frequent sampling and analysis than required under the current regulatory framework to provide a more comprehensive picture.

Another measure focuses on the monitoring and response to marine pollution incidents, particularly in environmentally sensitive areas.

Under this framework, local authorities are expected to procure services from specialised private providers, with financial support to be provided by the Shipping Deputy Ministry.

Minimum technical specifications for the relevant tenders have already been set by competent authorities including the Department of Fisheries and the Ports Authority.

Further action will involve the more frequent inspection of high-risk activities and installations, covering both land-based facilities and maritime operations.

Authorities also plan to utilise infrastructure provided by the European Commission and the European Maritime Safety Agency, including the deployment of a specialised drone to monitor Cyprus’ coastline and detect pollution incidents.

“Contacts have already taken place with all involved bodies so that the system can be put into operation as soon as possible,” Mesimeris said.

The goal is for the system to begin operational activity by early July 2026, following coordination with the Department of Civil Aviation, the Justice Ministry and the Defence Ministry.

Another initiative includes the installation of marine environmental sensors, with one already planned for Limassol district and another for the Larnaca Famagusta district.

These systems will continuously collect samples and monitor critical environmental parameters, providing real-time data on water conditions.

A specific additional measure concerns a site in the Akrotiri area, which may be a primary source of water quality degradation.

At this location, a vertical pipeline discharges into the area, creating a marsh and leading to the accumulation of mud.

Authorities have decided to proceed with the immediate clean-up of the area, with coordination to be undertaken by the Limassol district organisation.

Alongside operational measures, efforts will also focus on public and stakeholder awareness, with a joint information campaign agreed following a meeting with CYMEPA secretary-general Michalis Ierides.

“This decision was taken to give time to the competent authorities to investigate the issue and proceed with the necessary measures,” Ierides said.

“It appears to be an ongoing issue,” he added.

Officials will participate in planned events related to the Blue Flag programme, presenting the actions being implemented and providing updates.

Mesimeris stressed the importance of proper public communication, reiterating that the absence of Blue Flag applications should not be misinterpreted.

He also confirmed that authorities will develop an information platform for publishing water quality results, improving transparency.

In addition, a communication group on a social media platform will be created among stakeholders to ensure rapid response to complaints or pollution incidents.

The developments follow CYMEPA’s decision to suspend Blue Flag awards for one year along Limassol’s coastal front, due to repeated complaints regarding water quality.

The move is intended to allow time for investigation and corrective action, as authorities work to address what has been identified as a persistent environmental concern.