Limassol continues to experience a period of intense construction activity, with local authorities processing a record number of planning and building permit applications while also tackling the growing issue of unsafe buildings across the district.
According to Socrates Metaxas, Director General of the Limassol District Local Government Organisation (DGLO), around 1,000 new applications for planning and building permits are being submitted every month, highlighting the strength of development activity throughout the district.
Apartment blocks lead development in Limassol
Speaking to local media, Mr Metaxas said the organisation inherited approximately 8,500 outstanding cases when it was established on 1 July 2024. Around two-thirds of those applications have now been processed, while officials continue to assess new submissions arriving daily.
“Our objective is to clear all inherited pending cases by the end of this year so that we can operate under fully normal conditions,” he said.
Despite geopolitical tensions in the wider region, Limassol’s development momentum remains strong. Mr Metaxas noted that application volumes show no signs of slowing, with the majority relating to apartment buildings, including several high-rise residential projects and towers.
He explained that Limassol differs from other districts due to the large buildable floor area included in approved applications, largely driven by the presence of tall buildings. Most development activity is concentrated within the wider urban area stretching from Moni and Parekklisia to Episkopi.
Growing interest in high-rise coastal projects
Interest in high-rise developments remains strong, with several applications already submitted and others currently being prepared.
Mr Metaxas said authorities are working to assess proposals within the framework established by the Department of Town Planning and Housing and the relevant local municipalities, ensuring that broader planning principles are maintained.
He stressed that no area in Limassol has been designated exclusively for tall buildings. Instead, each application is assessed according to planning legislation, infrastructure capacity and the characteristics of the surrounding area.
Particular attention is being focused on Aktaias street, where further applications for high-rise developments are expected. Property owners have already expressed interest in pursuing additional tower projects in the area.
Meanwhile, staffing levels at the DLGO continue to increase. The organisation is expected to employ around 500 people by the end of the year, with efforts focused on training and integrating new staff into operations.
Warning over nearly 1,000 unsafe buildings
Alongside the construction boom, authorities are facing a significant challenge involving dangerous and unsafe buildings throughout the district.
Mr Metaxas revealed that around 1,000 unsafe buildings have now been identified across Limassol. The organisation initially inherited responsibility for approximately 700 from previous authorities, but ongoing inspections have increased that figure substantially.
Of particular concern are around 40 buildings classified as highly dangerous and requiring immediate intervention.
However, Mr Metaxas argued that current legislation does not provide all the tools needed for swift enforcement action. Existing powers do not fully allow authorities to disconnect utility services such as electricity and water or to enforce immediate evacuations where necessary.
He emphasised that responsibility for maintaining buildings remains primarily with property owners. Ideally, he said, authorities should have the legal ability to enter and secure unsafe premises immediately, regardless of objections from owners.
As Limassol’s skyline continues to evolve, officials face the dual challenge of supporting economic growth through new development while safeguarding residents from ageing and potentially hazardous buildings.
The DGLO says it remains committed to meeting the city’s growing needs, improving public services and supporting the continued development of Limassol’s economy.
