Larnaca’s former refinery site is set for a major transformation, as EKO Cyprus Ltd’s master plan for the area enters the final stages of licensing. The Department of Environment is currently reviewing the project’s environmental impact assessment, and the public has until June 10 to submit its views.
The master plan proposes a mixed-use development across five components: a 150-bed, seven-storey hotel of approximately 10,155 square metres; a 1,200-square-metre conference centre for business tourism; 313 residential apartments totalling 31,300 square metres; 9,500 square metres of commercial space; and 10,300 square metres of offices. The development will provide a total of 891 parking spaces, including 63 for disabled users.
A public waterfront for Larnaca
A central element of the plan is a seafront promenade and linear park along the waterfront, designed as a public multi-use space for walking, play and events. The promenade would connect the Oroklini tourist area to Larnaca marina and the city centre, linking to key outdoor spaces, axes and squares in the study area.
Environmental findings
The environmental impact assessment, prepared by YNB Consulting Limited, notes that the removal of the former refinery installations has already eliminated significant sources of pollution and risk. The development is expected to have a mainly positive socioeconomic impact, creating jobs and boosting the local economy, according to the EIA.
The assessment acknowledges increased traffic as a challenge, and proposes measures including the upgrading of road junctions, the construction of signalised pedestrian crossings, and the encouragement of alternative transport such as cycling and bus use.
YNB Consulting said the mixed-use development would upgrade the area for both residents and visitors, create multiple jobs, encourage further urban projects in the area, and contribute to the aesthetic and functional improvement of a site that was industrially burdened for decades.
The proposed hotel is expected to contribute to tourism at both local and national level, while the conference centre is intended to attract business events, according to the consultants.
How to have your say
EKO Cyprus has already held a public presentation of the project, recording community views. Citizens and interested parties can submit their views to the Department of Environment until June 10.
The project falls under the broader Development Plan for the Former Refinery Area, which has designated the site as a Special Urban Development Zone (SUDA) since 2020.
Future projects planned for the wider area include the redevelopment of Larnaca port and marina and the demolition of remaining LPG storage installations.
Read more: