in-cyprus 2 June 2025
Citizens will stage a protest on Thursday against Nicosia Municipality’s decision to fully reopen Makarios Avenue to private vehicles.
The demonstration will take place on 5 June at 18:30 at Spyridaki Square near the 360 building on Makarios Avenue, under the slogan “Makariou for people, not cars.”
Organisers expressed strong opposition to the proposed change, which reverses traffic restriction policies implemented in the avenue’s northern section in recent years as part of urban regeneration and sustainable mobility initiatives.
Participants warn that reintroducing vehicles risks undermining both the capital’s centre upgrade and access to European funding, as it contradicts European strategies for sustainable cities.
The protest will feature a peaceful gathering, interventions by citizens and organisation representatives, and creative actions aimed at highlighting Makarios Avenue’s public character and daily life activities.
Organisers presented five demands to authorities: maintaining Makarios Avenue as a public space without private vehicles; strengthening visitability and business activity through incentives rather than car access; developing accessibility, aesthetic and social life strategies; enhancing cultural and social activities in the area; and ensuring meaningful consultation involving all stakeholders in decision-making.
The traffic restrictions were introduced as part of broader urban development policies promoting sustainable transport and pedestrian-friendly city centres.
Organisers called on all citizens to participate in the protest, advocating for public space that serves people’s needs rather than vehicle circulation.
