Residents of Strovolos are protesting en masse against the construction of a roundabout and road expansion in the Nicosia suburb

Residents of Strovolos have formed an initiative group opposing the construction of a roundabout and road expansion in the Nicosia suburb. All unanimously claim that this will destroy commerce and quality of life.

According to a statement by the "Stavros Initiative Group", the Department of Urban Planning plans to expand Stavros Avenue and build a roundabout at the intersection with Joseph Hadjiosif Avenue.

The group is distributing their statement through the media and social networks, urging residents and the general public to sign in support.

The statement says the project is not “progress,” but a “trap.”

“Friends and neighbors, they told you there would be reconstruction, that traffic would be ‘improved,’ and that everything is for our benefit,” however, people were not informed that local authorities want to build a four-lane road in front of their homes and that all residents’ parking spaces will be demolished.

Additionally, sidewalks will be narrowed, shops will be closed, and “families will have to leave” the area.

“Pollution, noise, and speed will turn all of Joseph Hadjiosif Avenue and part of Stavros Avenue into a high-speed highway,” the group said.

Stavros Avenue includes schools, kindergartens, churches, children, the elderly, people with disabilities, and families—all of whom will be in direct danger from vehicle emissions.

The group suggests keeping the two-lane road as is, adding more greenery, trees, benches, and bike lanes to ensure safe movement for everyone without barriers.

It is also reported that the Mayor of Strovolos, Stavros Stavrinides, said his municipality is awaiting an official presentation of the project from the planning department.

He stated that, in his opinion, the project has some positive aspects, as it will ease congestion in Strovolos and the entrance to the capital.

However, he did not rule out that local authorities may reject the project entirely if it becomes clear that residents are completely against it.