Cyprus Greens – Citizens Cooperation once again denounce the persistent illegality and lack of effective measures to protect the Akamas Peninsula. The recent revelation of the illegal construction of two rudimentary cooling facilities in the Akamas Hersonissos Special Conservation and Protection Area has reinforced their concerns about the uncontrolled violation of environmental legislation.
According to a statement from the Ministry of the Environment, the two catering outlets are located on private land, in the Platanos area and near Lara-Kinositra beach. Although the Ministry of the Environment has already informed the relevant authorities and demanded their immediate dismantling, the delay in implementing the legislation allows legislators to continue exploiting the area, to the detriment of the environment and legality.
The establishment falls within the Lara-Toxeftra Marine Protected Area (MPA), the primary nesting site for endangered green turtles (Chelonia mydas) and loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta).
This is not an isolated case. It should be recalled that a Ministry investigation identified approximately 25 illegal constructions within the protected area, with agricultural land (known as “Stiathia”) arbitrarily converted into second homes. Despite constant warnings from the Green Party, the tolerance of the relevant authorities has led to a situation where illegality persists, causing irreparable damage to the natural environment of Akamas, notes Cyprus Greens – Citizens Cooperation.
The Greens – Citizens Cooperation Movement demands:
- The immediate removal of the illegal structures by the relevant authorities, without delay or vague excuses.
- Intensification of controls to prevent further illegal construction in Akamas.
- Enforcement of the legislation without exception, with the demolition of any illegal chalets discovered.
- A report from the authorities responsible for the unjustified delay in implementing the measures.
The Greens emphasize that they will not allow the destruction of Akamas in the name of uncontrolled speculation. “Environmental laws must be applied, without concession or exception.” The party calls on the government and relevant departments to assume their responsibilities before it is too late for this unique natural treasure of Cyprus.
