The Greens have strongly opposed government plans for tourist development on Paphos’ iconic Natura 2000 sea rock, known as the mythological birthplace of Aphrodite.
On Friday, Cyprus Greens President George Perdikis visited Paphos and criticised recent statements by Deputy Tourism Minister Costas Koumis, calling them “unacceptable.”
“In no circumstance can a Natura-listed area, protected by the European directive on habitats, which we very well know hosts birdlife and other fauna species, be given for tourist development and become a tourist resort,” he said.
Perdikis supported the idea of improving infrastructure to facilitate beach access, including for disabled people, but insisted that this should not come at the expense of damaging the site’s natural appeal. He called for round-the-clock protection of Petra tou Romiou beach by state and local authorities to safeguard its unique attributes.
He agreed the existing infrastructure was not up to standard, but this did not mean one should “ruin the element that attracts tourists.”
On another note, Perdikis expressed satisfaction over the pausing of “destructive” works in the area of Akamas.
He voiced hope that the Greens’ proposal to restrict road access to Akamas to public transport and tourist buses only would be adopted to better protect the reserve. “For us, Akamas is neither a playground nor a theme park, but a vital area for nature protection,” he said.
In October, the Environment Department is expected to present new plans, which Perdikis hopes will incorporate the Greens’ suggestions.
During his visit to Paphos, Perdikis also met with Eastern Paphos Mayor Nikos Palios, who provided a 13-point memorandum addressing urgent issues such as development works, environmental concerns, and plans for a condo-type hotel on Church of Cyprus land along a Natura-protected coast.
Perdikis stated that the Greens would review the memorandum’s issues, including problems with reform, waste collection, and the proposed hotel development.
