EUROPEAN COMMISSION

 

The EU supports the rehabilitation of the Pedieos River / Kanlıdere

 

Nicosia, 15 May 2025

The European Union (EU) will finance the extension of the Pedieos Linear Park in the southern part of Nicosia into the Turkish Cypriot community. The aim of the project that will be implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is to create a peaceful, sustainable space where Nicosians can meet to cycle and walk and enjoy nature.

The project will focus on improving both the environment and the local community. It aims to create new recreational areas, protect and improve the river’s natural ecosystem, and reduce the risks of flooding and erosion. It will also support activities that bring people from both communities together. The rehabilitation work will be done carefully to preserve the natural beauty of the river, using green paths and raised walkways where necessary, while protecting local plants and wildlife.

The European Commission’s DG REGIO acting Deputy Director-General Nicola De Michelis said:

The EU is supporting projects that improve green spaces and promote sustainable development in cities across Cyprus. With this project, we aim to turn the Pedieos River into a great example of innovation, eco-friendly development, and care for nature. This will help improve life for local residents and encourage better city planning. Projects like this show the EU’s strong commitment to protecting the environment, supporting cooperation between communities, and preserving nature in urban areas.

The Head of the UNDP Cyprus office Mr. Jakhongir Khaydarov stated:

This project exemplifies UNDP’s commitment to restoring ecosystems, improving livelihoods, and fostering social cohesion and reconciliation. By implementing this project, we not only enhance the environmental value of the area but also create a shared space for cultural and recreational engagement. This initiative is part of UNDP’s broader pledge to support nature-based solutions and sustainable development, ensuring that both people and the planet can thrive together. 

The EU foresees financing of the project with around EUR 4.4 million.

Next steps

The first phase of the rehabilitation project is expected to be completed by November 2025, with the entire project anticipated to be finished by September 2027, after final confirmation by the EU. The connection to the existing Pedieos Linear Park in the southern part of the Buffer Zone will be implemented by Nicosia Municipality.

Background

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, on improving contacts between the two communities and with the EU, and on preparation for the EU body of laws (also referred to as acquis communautaire).

United Nations Development Programme

UNDP aims to contribute and support the peace-building process in Cyprus and to enhance cooperation between the Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots by implementing a range of confidence-building measures.

More information

Support to the Turkish Cypriot community - European Commission

EU Infopoint on Facebook 

http://www.abbilgi.eu/en

UNDP Cyprus (@UNDPCY) / Twitter | on Facebook | on Instagram| 

https://www.undp.org/cyprus

 

 

Dr. Kezban AKANSOY

Press Officer / Political Reporter

 

European Commission

Representation in Cyprus

EU House, 30 Byron Avenue, 1096 Nicosia

Tel: +357 22817770 or 22817837 (direct)

Mobile: +90 533 8672030 or +357 99689521

kezban.akansoy@ec.europa.eu

https://cyprus.representation.ec.europa.eu