The Larnaca District Local Government Organisation (EOA) has declared the DI.PA apartment building in central Larnaca a dangerous structure and issued an evacuation order following concerns about the building's structural stability.
Warning notices have already been posted on the building, prohibiting entry by members of the public, while residents and businesses operating from the property have been instructed to vacate the premises in the coming days.
The notices were served on Friday, sparking concern among occupants. However, the EOA has indicated it is prepared to grant additional time to tenants and business owners to secure alternative accommodation and premises.
Social impact concerns
The building, located on Grigori Afxentiou Avenue opposite Pancyprian Lyceum, contains 64 apartments and 12 businesses, raising concerns that the evacuation will create a significant housing and commercial displacement issue.
Some residents and business operators reportedly do not wish to leave and have engaged legal representation to handle the matter.
DI.PA is one of Larnaca's oldest and best-known apartment buildings. Occupants have received repeated warnings from local authorities in recent years about the deteriorating condition of the structure.
Columns and walls have reportedly shown severe signs of wear, prompting concerns about the building's structural integrity.
Repair plans under consideration
According to information cited by Politis, the building's management company has already moved to appoint a civil engineer with a view to launching the necessary restoration works.
EOA Larnaca president Angelos Hadjicharalambous said the building was among those inherited from the former Larnaca Municipality's records and had a long history of concerns.
He said a visual inspection confirmed stability issues, leading authorities to formally classify it as a dangerous building.
Chatzicharalambous added that if those responsible provide written confirmation within the next few days that they will appoint a specialist to prepare a restoration plan, this will be viewed positively by the organisation.
Second major evacuation
The DI.PA building is the second apartment block to be classified as highly dangerous by the EOA.
In May, authorities ordered the evacuation of the Madona apartment building in the Faneromeni area after it was also deemed unsafe.
The organisation has also issued evacuation notices for several smaller buildings.
An evacuation order was additionally issued for the Philanta Court complex because of concerns over the building's suitability. However, after its managers indicated that remedial measures would be taken to eliminate the risks, authorities granted extra time before enforcement.
