The party has voiced strong opposition to proposals for the creation of an organised beach at Lara, following comments by the deputy mayor of Inia made in the context of the illegal placement of umbrellas, sunbeds and temporary shelters in the area.
Concerns over protected habitat
In a statement, the party said references to the long-standing coexistence of people and nature in the Akamas region should not be used to justify increased development within a protected area.
"Invoking history cannot be used as an alibi for the degradation of an area that is protected today precisely because human activity has reached levels capable of causing irreversible harm to the natural environment and wildlife," the statement said.
Key nesting site for sea turtles
The party stressed the importance of Lara Beach as one of the most significant nesting grounds for sea turtles in Cyprus.
The site serves as a breeding area for both:
- Caretta caretta (loggerhead turtle)
- Chelonia mydas (green turtle)
According to the party, protecting the beach is essential to safeguarding these species and preserving the area's ecological value.
Calls for enforcement
The party noted that protection of the Lara-Toxeutra area is a legal obligation of the Republic of Cyprus and emphasised that restrictions in the protected zone have been in force since 1989.
It called on all relevant authorities to enforce the legislation without exception and to ensure that activities such as the placement of sunbeds and umbrellas do not undermine conservation efforts.
Warning against further development
The statement argues that proposals for an organised beach risk increasing human pressure on an environmentally sensitive area and could threaten habitats that have long been subject to conservation measures.
The party reiterated that the priority should be protecting wildlife and enforcing existing regulations rather than expanding visitor facilities within the protected area.
