Common ground must be found regarding the future of the Limassol zoo, and the issue should not divide the city, Limassol Mayor Yiannis Armeftis told the Cyprus News Agency (CNA), following the Municipal Council’s decision to reject a proposal to transform the zoo into a biodiversity and urban environment centre.
The proposal, submitted by the Cyprus Centre for Environmental Research and Education (CYCERE), effectively called for the closure of the zoo and was rejected during a council meeting on Wednesday night, with 14 councillors voting against and 10 in favour.
Zoo remains historic city landmark
Armeftis said the zoo has long held significance for Limassol residents, describing it as a historic landmark connected with childhood memories, family visits and a different era when zoological parks served a different role in society.
He stressed that while the decision has been made, discussions will continue in an effort to bridge differing views and find a shared approach for the site’s future.
Concerns over animal welfare and redevelopment
The mayor noted that there are legitimate concerns regarding animal welfare, redevelopment of the space, and the modernisation of the zoo in line with contemporary environmental standards.
He added that the goal is to better utilise public space for citizens while ensuring compliance with modern ecological expectations.
Ongoing consultation process
“This is an ongoing process, and we will continue the discussion with an open mind to listen and synthesise views,” Armeftis said.
He reiterated that the aim is not to create division, but to work towards a balanced solution for the city zoo.
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