Filenews 13 September 2022 - by Natasha Christoforou
At the end of October, the Larnaca marina will finally open to the public, which for many years operated as a closed club and was accessed mainly by boat owners. Although it was initially decided to open its gates in September, the date was moved for about a month, in order, as the CEO of Kition Ocean Holdings Ltd, Panos Alexandrou, told "F", to complete all the works planned.
In the area there will be a restaurant, a cafeteria and a playground, while wooden kiosks will be placed in order to create a Christmas village, as well as a large screen for the screening of films on weekends. Repairs have already been made to the pedestrian street and grass and lighting have been installed, with pedestrians having access from the coastal front of Finikoudes. "What we want is for people to get in touch with the Larnaca marina and not to feel that someone has to have a boat in order to be able to visit it. We are on the right track and our goal is not to rush, so that some things can be done properly", noted Mr. Alexandrou.
What is created at this stage in the marina, will be temporary and will remain for about three years, as estimated, until the second phase of the large investment approaches, where a total overhaul of the space will be made with the operation of the yacht club.
Kition Ocean Holdings Ltd, which took over the management of the port and marina since April 1, is expected to implement the largest investment ever made in Cyprus, with projects of €1.2 billion. this will take place in four phases and will have a duration of twelve years. The major projects of the first phase, such as the road that will connect the coastal front of Finikoudes with the port of Larnaca, are expected to start in April 2023. Until then, however, visitors to Larnaca will have the opportunity to enjoy the fully upgraded listed pier.
The works on the platform will start, according to Mr. Alexandrou, on November 1st and are expected to be completed before the summer of 2023. The works include, among other things, the installation of new lighting and seats and the creation of a photography museum, at the entrance of the platform, where events will be organized. "The work will be done gradually, to affect the professionals as little as possible. Vessels will be moved depending on where the works are being done. Our goal is that, once the works are completed, the dock will be an important reference centre for Larnaca".
