Construction is set to begin on one of Larnaca’s major new infrastructure projects, the Cyprus University of Technology’s School of Marine Sciences, Technology and Sustainable Development, following the signing of a contract worth almost €11 million.
The agreement between Larnaca Municipality and Cyfield Constructions Ltd was signed on Thursday at the municipality’s offices, clearing the way for construction to begin within the coming days.
The new building will be constructed on land behind the existing municipal car park serving leisure establishments in the Mackenzie area, adjoining Tassos Mitsopoulos Avenue.
Foundation stone ceremony on 30 October
The contractor has been instructed to begin the first construction works immediately.
A foundation stone ceremony will take place on 30 October at 11am, with the President of the Republic attending.
Larnaca Mayor Andreas Vyras stressed that the university building must be completed by August 2028, allowing the first students in the Marine Biology Department to begin classes the following month.
“This is a project that Larnaca has been waiting for for many years, which is why meeting the timetable is extremely important. I hope we will receive the appropriate response from the contractor,” Vyras said.
He stressed that the nature of the project makes adherence to construction deadlines particularly important.
Project progress to be closely monitored
Cyprus University of Technology President Andreas Karakatsanis said a person will be appointed to provide the university with regular updates on the progress of construction.
He expressed hope that the building could, if possible, be completed ahead of schedule.
Karakatsanis also highlighted the importance of cooperation between the new university school and the Cyprus Marine and Maritime Institute (CMMI), which is based in Larnaca.
The two institutions are expected to cooperate on research and innovation, with the broader ambition of helping establish Larnaca as a Blue Capital for the wider region.
Sustainable Development courses could begin in 2027
Cyprus University of Technology Rector Panayiotis Zaphiris said consideration is being given to temporarily using Larnaca Municipality’s Multipurpose Centre for Social Welfare and Employment.
If the required certification is secured, the facility could host classes for the School’s Sustainable Development undergraduate programme from September 2027.
Zaphiris explained that the programme has different classroom requirements from Marine Biology.
The Marine Biology Department requires specialised laboratories, meaning its needs cannot be accommodated in the same way.
Student residences planned nearby
Plans are also progressing for student residences on a neighbouring plot next to the new university building.
Vyras said Larnaca Municipality is waiting for the 2028-2034 EU programming period to seek European funding for construction of the residences.
An architectural competition for the student accommodation is also expected to proceed so that the project will be ready to seek funding in 2028.
The new school forms part of wider efforts to strengthen Larnaca’s academic and research presence, particularly in fields connected with marine science, maritime activity, sustainability, research and innovation.
