The president of the Chlorakas Cultural and Environmental Association has sent a letter to all relevant institutions and authorities, including the Office of the President of the Republic, calling for the immediate removal of metal structures from the historic harbour of Paphos.
In the letter, addressed to the acting mayor of Paphos and members of the municipal council, Andreas Kyriakou expresses strong reaction and frustration over the current state of the historic harbour in Kato Paphos.
The letter was also forwarded to the Office of the President of the Republic, the Ministry of Interior, the Deputy Ministry of Culture, the Department of Antiquities, the Auditor General and other competent bodies. In it, the association condemns the continued presence of bulky metal structures in the area opposite the historic Paphos castle.
According to the association, the structures significantly alter the traditional and historic character of the area, creating what it describes as a “complete incompatibility” with the cultural landscape of Kato Paphos.
Mr Kyriakou refers to the structures as “metal boxes” that have been turned into makeshift catering spaces. He argues that they obscure the view of traditional buildings and significantly reduce open public space.
He also notes that both residents and foreign visitors frequently express complaints and questions over how such installations were permitted in such a prominent and historic location.
Responsibility, he adds, lies both with the Municipality of Paphos and the relevant planning authorities, which he says allowed the aesthetic character of the coastal area to be altered.
Through the letter, the association calls for the immediate removal of the structures, the restoration of public space and the protection of the historic and traditional character of the area.
The Chlorakas Cultural and Environmental Association stresses that the cultural and historical identity of Paphos cannot be sacrificed for economic gain, expressing hope that the relevant authorities, including the Office of the President of the Republic, will acknowledge their responsibilities and proceed with the necessary actions to restore the image of the historic harbour of Kato Paphos.
