The first phase of the Pedieos River/Kanlı Dere Restoration Project was completed Thursday, UNDP Cyprus announced, with the finished section linking the Ledra Palace crossing area to the river corridor via a 1.2-kilometre route.
The completed section includes a two-way cycle lane, a footpath and a green belt. According to UNDP Cyprus, the project is funded by the European Union under the Aid Programme for the Turkish Cypriot community and implemented by UNDP, with the aim of restoring natural habitats, creating shared public spaces and strengthening ties between communities.
A completion event brought together representatives of the EU and UNDP, cyclists, community groups and residents from across Nicosia, who took part in a walking and cycling activity along the newly completed route.
The project forms part of a broader effort to develop a 3.7-kilometre linear park in Nicosia, with the announcement projecting at least 250,000 visitors annually. UNDP said the project aims to expand green spaces, restore the river environment and create accessible public spaces.
Phase two works are expected to begin in September 2026, UNDP said, with the aim of developing a continuous walking and cycling route across Nicosia.