Limassol is changing…but its not plain sailing

TEPAK the new technical university is coming to Limassol

The historic center of Limassol is undergoing massive changes as parts of the old town are unrecognisable. The classic old (and some more humble) buildings which have become landmarks await the attendance of young students in the city new technical university, TEPAK. Trendy cafes, clubs, restaurants and bars have suddenly begun to mushroom in the surrounding areas over the past few years as the town center takes on a new younger vibe.
But these changes have not been to everyone’s approval…The Limassol municipality’s work seems good for some, but numerous business people are having to stare at the dug up road and earthworks from their empty shops. The shops empty as a result of the difficulty of shoppers and customers in reaching their stores. Rubble, earthworks, excavations…it is not an easy task moving about whether on foot or by car. “They tell us it will be over by end of 2012. Let’s hope so but right now I am not in the most positive mood” says a disgruntled shop owner in the area. Some shop owners even claim that they are in the process of closing down.

The municipality began the transformation process in January 2010. The works will cost 24 million euros of which 80% is covered by EU structural funds. The transformation must preserve the towns cultural heritage while maintaining the local character. The Medeival castle area, Saripoulou street, B’municipal market and University area will each see the introduction of their own squares. As numerous streets are pedestrianised, side walk areas widened and green areas added the decongestion of the center must be assured. The mayor of Limassol, Andreas Christou, has commented that until completion in 2012 people must realise that the public works cannot take place with out some unease and sacrifice. The mayor has commented that in the end, after all the unease and upheaval, a more beautiful city will be created that will make the local people more proud of Limassol. Mr Christou has also commented that the biggest problem faced thus far is the traffic congestion in the area. The current decrease in shop owners trade could also be the current economic crisis that is affecting the city and island.

The expansion plans of the university have seen student numbers grow…Initially 350 students enrolled…that number has now swelled to 2000 and is expected to rise to 8000 by 2020. So why haven’t these figures had a positive influence on business? Apart from the inconvenience of the road works, it seems that prices asked by the local establishment are just too high for the typical students. With their limited spending ability they prefer to stay on campus where prices are much more reasonable. There are businesses that cater for students and they are content with the current situation knowing that it can only get better.

So it seems that we are experiencing another case of ‘adapt or die’. The local social and economic arena is changing and with it local business must change or suffer the consequences…in the long run the changes can only be a good thing for Limassol and for the down town university area.