The redevelopment of Phinikoudes seafront is the flagship project that Andreas Vyras has pledged to set in motion before stepping down as Mayor of Larnaca, a move expected at the end of his current term in three years’ time.
Speaking in an interview on RIK’s television programme Metaxy Sovarou kai Asteiou, hosted by Kostakis Konstantinou, Vyras confirmed that his current mandate will be his last. Before leaving office, he said, he intends to launch a new architectural competition for the comprehensive redesign and beautification of Phinikoudes.
Reconnecting Phinikoudes with the sea
Vyras explained that plans for the seafront redevelopment had been delayed following the collapse of the unified port and marina development project. As a result, attention shifted to marina-related works, including the construction of the Yacht Club building, which will also house a conference centre and is now a priority.
“The Phinikoudes beach needs a redesign, with the primary goal of reconnecting it with the sea and enhancing its overall appearance,” he said. “Our intention is to announce a new architectural competition for its redevelopment. The advantages of our city’s seafront are immense, and we believe there will be strong interest from major architectural firms. This is something I will set in motion before I leave the mayoralty.”
New perspective for the city centre
Beyond the seafront, Vyras identified the regeneration of Larnaca’s commercial centre as another major challenge he hopes to address before the end of his term. Acknowledging the concerns raised by shop owners, he expressed confidence that once ongoing works are completed, the city centre will gain renewed momentum.
“For me, it would weigh heavier on my conscience to listen to complaints and protests and then step back from regeneration projects in the commercial streets,” he said. “I might still be considered successful, as many other projects have been completed. But I truly believe we had to give the commercial centre a new perspective. I cannot imagine Larnaca without one.”
He revealed that 13 new tourist accommodation units are currently under construction in the city centre, with a further seven elsewhere in Larnaca. He also noted that the municipality had no legal means to prevent the construction and operation of Metropolis Mall.
‘Five steps forward’
In the same interview, Vyras reiterated his intention to step down once his term expires, saying he wants people to say that he “helped take Larnaca five steps forward.” By then, he will have completed a total of 12.5 years in office.
“My vision is to leave feeling satisfied, first and foremost with myself, for the work I have done,” he said. “I do not want people to grow tired of seeing me in the chair. I have the same drive as when I was first elected. There are still many things to be done for Larnaca. I now work even harder, because I care more about what people will say.”
Source: RIK