The contract award process for the first phase of the Paphos-Polis Chrysochous road project remains unresolved three months after financial bids were opened, with no final decision yet taken.
The delay follows the submission of two bids that exceed the project's estimated budget, prompting authorities to continue their assessment before determining the next steps.
Minister to provide update
Speaking to Politis, Paphos Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Giorgos Mais said the Minister of Transport, Communications and Works is expected to convene a broad meeting towards the end of July to provide a detailed update on the latest developments.
According to Mr Mais, the minister will present updates on both project sections:
- Agia Marinouda-Stroumpi
- Stroumpi-Polis Chrysochous
The meeting had initially been scheduled for 14 July, but was postponed and rescheduled for 30 July due to ministerial commitments.
Bids exceed project estimate
Mr Mais said the two financial bids submitted in mid-April 2026 both exceed €120 million.
This is approximately 30% higher than the project's original estimated value of €90.2 million, excluding VAT.
The higher-than-expected bids have contributed to the extended evaluation process.
Evaluation expected by September
According to Mr Mais, once the evaluation is completed, which is expected around September, authorities will seek a legal opinion before proceeding.
Two options are currently under consideration:
- Direct negotiations with the two bidders aimed at reducing costs and making the project financially viable.
- Cancellation of the tender and the launch of a new procurement procedure.
Project to be built in phases
The Paphos-Polis Chrysochous motorway will extend for 31 kilometres and will be developed in stages.
The first phase involves completing the unfinished two-lane section between Agia Marinouda and Stroumpi.
A second tender will subsequently be issued for the section between Stroumpi and Polis Chrysochous, while two additional lanes will be added to the first section at a later stage.
Infrastructure works included
The project also provides for the construction of:
- Tunnels
- Grade-separated junctions
- Valley bridges
- Overpasses and underpasses
The works are intended to restore and maintain connectivity across the local road network.
