Acting mayor sounds alarm over conditions
Acting Paphos Mayor Angelos Onisiforou has expressed concern over neglect in the Minos area, describing scenes of deterioration and social decline in one of the most prominent parts of Kato Paphos.
In a public intervention, Onisiforou said the situation is damaging the image of the city and undermining its tourism appeal.
Area no longer reflects original vision
According to Onisiforou, the site was inaugurated in 2021 with the aim of becoming a landmark destination in Kato Paphos. Five years later, however, he said the area presents a troubling picture that is not compatible with a modern European city.
He claimed that people are living and sleeping under trees, inside bushes, in public parks and in abandoned Turkish Cypriot properties throughout the area.
At the same time, he said public infrastructure has fallen into disrepair, despite repeated complaints from residents.
Calls for stronger response from authorities
Onisiforou argued that the response from the relevant authorities has been inadequate.
He referred to the Police, Social Welfare Services and other government departments, saying meaningful action has yet to be taken to address the situation.
The acting mayor also raised concerns over municipal facilities built with public funds that remain closed and unused.
According to him, offices and kiosks in the area have been vandalised and converted into makeshift shelters, contributing to further deterioration.
Public spaces affected by neglect
The intervention also highlighted problems including accumulated rubbish, unsanitary conditions and unpleasant odours.
Onisiforou further claimed that public toilets and facilities near the local mosque have effectively been occupied, limiting access for residents and visitors.
The Minos area covers approximately 10,000 square metres and includes buildings, green spaces and a playground.
It is situated near some of Kato Paphos’ most important archaeological sites and tourist attractions, which attract thousands of visitors every year.
According to the acting mayor, Minos area neglect is particularly concerning because of the site’s proximity to key tourism and heritage locations.
Shared responsibility
Onisiforou said responsibility does not rest with a single authority but with all agencies that were aware of the issues and failed to take action.
He specifically named the Police, Social Welfare Services, Health Services and the Municipality of Paphos among those who share responsibility for the current situation.
“We cannot speak about development, tourism and quality of life while allowing such scenes in the heart of Kato Paphos,” he said.
Call for immediate action
The acting mayor called for urgent and coordinated intervention to restore the area.
He said measures should include cleaning operations, increased policing, social support for individuals living in the area, the utilisation of existing facilities and efforts to restore order and dignity to one of Kato Paphos’ most visited public spaces.
Onisiforou warned that neglect will continue to damage the city’s image unless all relevant authorities work together to address the growing concerns and prevent further deterioration.
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