Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades returned to the issue of developing the Larnaca port and marina, seeking to ease the strong reactions expressed in recent weeks. Speaking on the radio programme “Defteri Matia” on Politis Radio 107.6 and 97.6, he made it clear that “there is no scenario of an industrial port in Larnaca”, stressing that any plans for heavy industrial activity concern solely the Vasiliko area.
Vafeades said the government’s approach rests on a gradual and cautious development model, rejecting criticism that the process is fragmented. He noted that the first projects announced after the termination of the previous agreement have already moved forward. In particular, he said dredging work at the marina is close to completion, while upgrades have also taken place at existing facilities.
He also referred to funding provided to the Municipality of Larnaca to promote an architectural competition for the yacht club, underlining that “everything announced in the first phase has been implemented”. Addressing criticism that the government is “moving ahead and seeing what happens,” the minister said the phrase has been misinterpreted. Prioritising the marina expansion, he explained, is a practical choice because it is an urgent project that no one disputes.
On the issue of land-side development, which lies at the heart of the dispute, Vafeades said experts are currently evaluating the matter. He did not rule out urban developments, provided they do not affect the port’s functionality. He also reiterated that the strategy of phased implementation was chosen to reduce risk, given that previous attempts to deliver the project had failed.
Vyras hits back
Larnaca Mayor Andreas Vyras responded to the minister’s remarks with a public statement, raising a series of questions and voicing reservations about the project’s planning and progress. While he said he does not seek a public confrontation, he argued that substantive issues require clear answers.
Among other points, Vyras focused on the readiness of marina berthing works, questioning whether full construction plans and the necessary studies are in place. He specifically asked about wave studies and the design of core infrastructure such as electricity, water supply and telecommunications. He also queried whether these studies will be limited solely to berthing or cover the wider development of the area.
Regarding the renovation works cited by the minister, the mayor said that, based on available information, no substantial tender procedures have advanced for large-scale works, beyond some limited repairs.
Vyras also made particular reference to the issue of land-side developments, noting that the initial study by the asset management authority did not include them. He questioned who set that initial direction and what has changed since. He stressed that the city’s position remains in favour of an integrated plan that includes urban uses, in line with modern marinas elsewhere.
In closing, the mayor underlined that there is no disagreement over phased implementation as such, but over the lack of clear commitments for the project as a whole. Larnaca, he said, is calling for transparency, concrete planning and clear decisions on a project that will shape the city’s future.