The first phase of the EU-funded Pedieos River/Kanli Dere Restoration Project has been officially completed today, marking an important milestone in the ongoing effort to transform the river corridor into a vibrant, accessible and environmentally sustainable public space for all communities in Nicosia.
Funded by the European Union under the Aid Programme for the Turkish Cypriot community and implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the project aims to restore natural habitats, create shared public spaces and strengthen ties between communities. Through the upgrading of walking and cycling infrastructure, the initiative promotes sustainable living, environmental awareness and interaction between communities.
The event marking the completion of the project brought together representatives of the European Union, UNDP, cyclists, community groups and residents from across Nicosia. Participants took part in walking and cycling activities along the newly completed route, celebrating the completion of the first phase of restoration works.
The completed section, 1.2 kilometres in length, connects the Ledra Palace crossing point with the Pedieos River/Kanli Dere corridor and includes a two-way cycle lane, a pedestrian path and a green zone, creating safer and more accessible routes while improving access to nature in the heart of the city.
The completion of the first phase constitutes a significant milestone in the overall restoration effort along the Pedieos River/Kanli Dere corridor.
With expected benefits for at least 250,000 visitors annually, the Pedieos River/Kanli Dere Restoration Project forms part of a broader effort to extend a 3.7-kilometre linear park in Nicosia, enhancing green spaces, restoring the river environment and creating accessible public spaces for all.
Following the completion of the first phase, work on the second phase is expected to begin in September 2026, further promoting sustainable mobility, recreation, environmental protection and interaction across Nicosia through the development of a continuous walking and cycling route.
For more information and media enquiries, please contact UNDP at: registry.cy@undp.org
European Union
The Aid Programme for the Turkish Cypriot community, based on Council Regulation 389/2006, aims to facilitate the reunification of Cyprus by encouraging the economic development of the Turkish Cypriot community, with particular emphasis on the economic integration of the island, improving contacts between the two communities and with the EU, as well as preparing for the implementation of EU legislation (the acquis communautaire).
United Nations Development Programme
UNDP aims to support the peacebuilding process in Cyprus and strengthen cooperation between Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots through the implementation of a range of confidence-building measures.
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