The British Bases Administration has responded ahead of a peaceful protest scheduled outside RAF Akrotiri on Saturday morning, saying it respects the right to lawful demonstrations and remains committed to transparency over planned infrastructure upgrades.
The project involves the installation of new equipment and the modernisation of existing facilities in the Akrotiri Salt Lake area.
Additional land required
The Administration confirmed that additional land will be needed to secure the infrastructure’s long-term operational function.
“Any related process will be carried out in accordance with the applicable legal framework and will include consultation with affected landowners, as well as consideration of any compensation provided for,” a British Bases spokesperson said.
The Administration added that work cannot begin until the legally required environmental process has been completed and a public consultation has taken place.
It is awaiting the submission of the necessary applications by the project operator before the relevant legal procedures can begin.
Scientific study and health concerns
Referring to concerns over radiofrequency emissions, the Administration cited a publicly available independent scientific study which found that the main sources of radiofrequency fields were mobile telephone networks and national broadcasting systems.
According to the study, no increased incidence of cancer, congenital abnormalities or obstetric problems was identified.
“The Administration has no information indicating that these findings have changed,” the spokesperson said.
It has also informed the Cyprus government that it is prepared to co-finance a new independent scientific study.
Additional monitoring stations proposed
Existing monitoring mechanisms, including those operating in Akrotiri village, continuously provide the relevant Cyprus Republic authorities with data concerning emissions from the equipment.
The Administration said independent verification would continue and be strengthened through its proposal to install additional monitoring stations throughout the Akrotiri Salt Lake area.
“The British Bases Administration remains committed to implementing the project responsibly, in close cooperation with local partners, the relevant authorities and local communities, with transparency, environmental protection and the timely provision of information to all interested parties,” the spokesperson said.
