Northern Cyprus called for the urgent launch of an urban renewal system due to earthquake risks

In Northern Cyprus, the issue of the need for systematic urban renewal has been raised again in connection with the risk of earthquakes and other natural disasters. The President of the Turkish Cypriot Building Contractors Association, Cafer Gürcafer, and the President of the Turkish Cypriot Chamber of Architects, Onur Olguner, stated that the time for decision-making is running out.

The participants noted that following the devastating earthquake on February 6, 2023, in Turkey, a full-fledged urban renewal system has still not been established in Northern Cyprus.

According to Gürcafer, construction is still regulated by legislation from the British administration period (Chapter 96), which has led to the formation of risky and chaotic development. He emphasized that the country lacks an active law on urban renewal, although work on a corresponding project continues. During inspections after the earthquake, buildings with structural violations subject to demolition were identified.

Gürcafer also noted the key role of municipalities, especially in Nicosia, Famagusta, Kyrenia, and Iskele, where an urgent assessment of the housing stock is necessary.

Olguner emphasized that urban renewal should become a state policy rather than an initiative of a single government. Given the limited budget resources, it is proposed to create a system capable of functioning independently for 10–20 years.

According to the model under consideration, buildings deemed dangerous based on technical inspections will be demolished, and new facilities with increased area and commercial premises will be built in their place to cover expenses.

Both experts warned that delays could lead to serious consequences.