Mayor presents outlook for new, improved Limassol

Upgrading public spaces, the promotion of sustainable mobility and revitalisation of neighbourhoods are at the heart of a strategy for urban Limassol presented by mayor Yiannis Armeftis on Monday. The strategy consists of five core axes including the reconnection of the city with its coastal front, a new sustainable mobility network including ‘green routes’, the regeneration of Ayia Sophia Street and the connection of the linear Garyllis park with the sea, the continued regeneration of the historic centre of Ayia Fyla and the upgrading of public squares and parks. Referring to the coastal road, Armeftis said after the creation of a cyclist and pedestrian lane from Limassol Marina to Alexandria street, the new design focuses on completing that connection to the new wall, while also promoting the overall regeneration of the area.

“The goal is to create a continuous coastal front with greenery, safe walking and cycling routes, sports and recreation areas, which will strengthen the connection of the western districts with the sea and create new prospects for the area,” he said. Meanwhile, planning for the “green routes” will proceed with the creation of a single network spanning around 20 kilometres. The network aims to connect neighbourhoods, schools, parks and commercial areas to the city’s coastal front and is based on the principles of the “15-minute city”, which is designed to provide residents with safe and appealing options for daily travel by bicycle or on foot. The project is set to include urban greenery and shading and aims to function as an environmental upgrade to strengthen the city’s resilience to climate change. The plan also sees the upgrading of Ayias Sofias street with around 5km of roads and pavements, the creation of a 2. 5km bicycle path, the planting…