Cyprus wants more EU funds for public works, roads

The dialogue between European authorities and the Cyprus Ministry of Communications and Works is in full swing with a view to secure funds for public works projects, according to Minister Tasos Mitsopoulos.

Speaking after he was briefed on projects related to the island's motorway network and coastline projects, Mitsopoulos said a project that is considered suitable for financing is the 35km ring road around Nicosia.

The Minister and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry Alekos Michalides were informed about the progress of the development programme on the road network for urban areas as well as the motorway and the road network to mountain resorts and rural areas with many projects put on hold due to the economic crisis.

Mitsopoulos said that despite the economic problems the country is facing, staff at the Public Works Department are working intensively to prepare a series of projects so that by the end of 2014 or early 2015, when the necessary funds will be made available, the projects will go ahead.

He said there is reserved optimism that Cyprus can secure extra EU funding through existing projects or new projects through co-funding.

Acting Director of the Public Works Department, Chrystalla Malloupa, said Cyprus’ road network covers around 9500 km, of which 2700 km are under the responsibility of her department (260km motorways).

The secondary network is around 2800 km and is the responsibility of the district administrations while around 4500 km of the road network are under the supervision of the Municipalities and communities.