Illegal dumping confirmed
The Audit Office identified serious violations of excavation, construction, and demolition waste management legislation in Special Report EE-EY 47/2025 concerning the new Morphou Police Directorate building construction in Evrychou. The report confirms claims from a named complaint about illegal dumping in adjacent areas, alongside major oversight failures by the contracting authority, the Public Works Department.
Inadequate waste management plan
The contractor’s submitted Waste Management Plan proved deficient, lacking clear handling descriptions, quantity estimates, or licensed entity partnerships. Despite subsequent changes in waste handling methods, the plan remained unrevised as required.
Off-site materials use without permits
Large volumes of excavated materials filled adjacent off-site areas without meeting legislative requirements or obtaining necessary permits. Balance sheets show thousands of cubic meters used without sufficient documentation.
Fine imposed, no site restoration
The Environment Department fined the contractor €2,000 administratively. However, full site restoration became difficult due to subsequent interventions and asphalt paving. The department ultimately ruled no waste removal necessary, raising concerns for the Audit Office.
Years-long investigation delays
Significant delays marked the investigation. Despite complaints dating to 2022, the Environment Department process concluded only in October 2025, complicating evidence collection and accountability.
Call for stricter enforcement
The Audit Office stresses stricter existing legislation enforcement and training for contracting authority personnel to ensure environmental protection, transparency, and good governance across all public works implementation stages.
Also read: Audit Office: overpayments and zero oversight in transport projects
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