Larnaca Mayor Andreas Vyras described Tuesday's signing of the construction contract for the redevelopment of the city's old hospital as a "historic day" for the municipality.
The agreement, signed between the contractor and the Municipality of Larnaca, paves the way for the conversion of the former hospital complex into a new municipal hall, with construction expected to begin in September and take approximately two years to complete.
The project is estimated to cost close to €9 million, financed through borrowing.
Preserving history while modernising services
Municipal authorities say the redevelopment will create a modern, functional and accessible civic building capable of housing all municipal services under one roof.
The project has been awarded to C. Roushas Trading and Development Ltd.
Officials stressed that the works will be carried out with respect for the architectural and historical value of the complex, preserving and showcasing the listed buildings that formed part of the original hospital.
At the same time, modern infrastructure required for the operation of a contemporary city hall will be added.
"A project about the city's identity"
In his address, Vyras said the project goes beyond the conversion of a historic site into a municipal building.
"It concerns the identity of the city itself, the way we honour its history while planning for its future," he said.
The mayor noted that despite its long history and continued development, Larnaca currently lacks a municipal headquarters befitting its historical and institutional role.
"For me personally, this moment is particularly significant. It is the vindication of a long collective effort by people who believed that Larnaca deserves a city hall worthy of its history," he said.
"Larnaca is bringing part of its history back to life and giving it a new mission. It is taking a building that served society for more than a century and transforming it into a new space for public service and communication with its citizens."
New civic square planned
The redevelopment includes:
- Restoration of listed buildings.
- Maintenance or demolition of non-historic structures.
- Construction of new facilities to accommodate all municipal departments.
- Landscaping works, including green areas, planting and parking spaces.
- Structural strengthening of existing buildings and foundations.
- Conservation of traditional architectural elements, stone masonry, roofs, wooden doors and windows.
- Installation of modern electrical and mechanical systems.
Particular emphasis will be placed on the creation of a new city hall square, designed as a green public space and social meeting point expected to become a new landmark for the city.
A century of history
The old hospital served as a major public institution for roughly a century.
The first buildings were constructed in 1900, while philanthropist Evanthia Pieridou financed the construction of two new two-storey wings between 1932 and 1934.
The redevelopment project was delayed for years due to difficulties relocating services operated by the State Health Services Organisation (OKYpY) and the Health Ministry from the site.
Larnaca's previous town hall, located in Kimonos Square at the Foinikoudes seafront, was demolished in the early 2000s after being deemed structurally unsuitable. Since then, municipal services have been housed in a six-storey building on Athinon Avenue.
