Following the controversy generated by the Trozena case, the Department of Environment today moved to activate its own procedures to inspect conditions in the area. At the same time, in the wake of Sunday's Politis report highlighting the fact that the Special Ecological Assessment study for the project had not been published on the Department's website, contrary to standard practice, the study was published today. The Department issued a terse statement: "The Department of Environment informs that the Special Ecological Assessment Study for the General Spatial Plan for the Reconstruction and Revitalisation of the Abandoned Settlements of Trozena and Gerovasa, which is set out below, is currently under examination."
Politis understands that Department of Environment officers have been on site since the morning and that the issuance of out-of-court fines for environmental violations related to illegal land clearances is not being ruled out. The Limassol District Administration is also expected to be notified promptly so that planning enforcement proceedings can be initiated, on the grounds that works began illegally before the relevant permits were issued.
The ecological study
According to the project description contained in the study, the development philosophy is based on the gentle revitalisation of the settlement's residential fabric, with the following objectives: the renovation or reconstruction of derelict structures in a traditional architectural character; the development of eco-tourism activities including accommodation, a winery, small dining facilities and wellness spaces; and the promotion of a sustainable development model that highlights cultural heritage and contributes to the preservation of the natural environment. The general spatial plan for the proposed development specifically includes the construction of new traditional residential units and the reconstruction of existing ones, all proposed to be built within the core of the Trozena settlement, along with a winery, a restaurant, offices and reception areas, a car park, and camping facilities.
