Pafos Live 7 October 2025
The Movement of Ecologists – Citizens' Cooperation expresses its strong concern about the proposed expansion of the shelter/marina in Latchi, a project that threatens to permanently alter the natural and coastal character of the area.
According to the Environmental Impact Assessment Study (EIA), the construction of the project will lead to the irreversible destruction of sensitive marine habitats, such as Posidonia meadows and reefs, which host critically protected species – including Caretta caretta and the Mediterranean monk seal. Extensive dredging and embankments will severely affect the quality of marine waters and beaches.
Also of concern are the provisions for residential development that refer to a marina-type development and no longer to a fishing shelter. The aesthetic and ecological alteration of the landscape will irreparably degrade the character of Latchi as an area of mild tourist development.
At the same time, the study does not clarify the origin of the huge quantities of quarrying materials that will be used, which raises concerns about additional environmental impacts from quarrying and transport.
The Movement points out that the project does not seem to serve the public interest, but specific economic interests, at the expense of the local community, nature and the viability of the area.
Instead of destroying projects, the state must invest in mild forms of development, agrotourism, ecosystem protection and participatory planning with the local community at the center.
We call on the competent authorities to suspend the permitting process and proceed with a re-evaluation of the project, taking into account the real environmental, social and economic consequences.
Movement of Ecologists – Citizens' Cooperation
