Cyprus

First crematorium project in Cyprus secures planning approval

By: SigmaLive English

Date:

The first official planning permit for the construction of a crematorium in Cyprus has been granted to Golden Leaves Cyprus Crematorium Limited, marking a major step in the modernisation of funeral services on the island.

According to the company, the development comes a decade after cremation legislation was first introduced in the Republic of Cyprus.

The crematorium will be built in the Agia Varvara area of Paphos and will become the first fully licensed cremation facility in the country.

Construction expected in September

Following the approval of the planning permit, the company said construction works are expected to begin in September 2026, with the project scheduled for completion within approximately 18 months.

Once operational, the facility will offer what the company described as a modern, dignified and environmentally responsible alternative to traditional burial services.

The project is also expected to address a long-standing need among both Cypriot citizens and foreign residents living on the island, many of whom currently travel abroad for cremation services due to the absence of local facilities.

European standards and low-emission systems

Maureen Watt, Director of Angel Guardians Funeral Home and representative of the consortium, said the project would provide families with “a dignified, modern and environmentally responsible option”.

She added that the facility would operate according to the highest European standards for quality, care and environmental management.

The new crematorium is expected to include modern ceremony halls, landscaped memorial spaces and advanced cremation systems equipped with filtration technology and low-emission controls.

According to the company, the facility will operate in line with European environmental regulations and Best Available Techniques (BAT) standards.

Joint venture behind the project

The project is being developed by Golden Leaves Cyprus Crematorium Limited, a joint venture between Golden Leaves Ltd and Angel Guardians Funeral Home.

Golden Leaves was founded in the UK in 1984 and has operated funeral planning services in Cyprus for more than 30 years. The company is regulated by the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority.

Angel Guardians Funeral Home, based in Paphos, was established in 2010 and provides funeral services across Cyprus.

The company said the project is also expected to create economic opportunities through partnerships with Cypriot contractors, suppliers and professionals during both the construction and operational phases.

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