TROZENA - PROPOSED PROJECTS THAT WILL REGENERATE THE AREA - THE PLAN FOR THE REVIVAL AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE ABANDONED SETTLEMENTS - Filenews 11/5 by Angelos Nikolaou
The ambitious general spatial plan for the reconstruction and revitalization of the abandoned settlements of Trozena and Gerovasa is on track to be implemented, with the aim of transforming the area into a sustainable agritourism and ecotourism destination. The proposed project, located in the Limassol district, seeks to combine the protection of cultural heritage with mild development.
The Special Ecological Assessment Study (SAA) for the General Spatial Plan for the Reconstruction and Revitalization of the Abandoned Settlements of Trozena – Gerovasa is in the process of being examined by the Department of Environment.
The heart of the project concerns the revival of the residential fabric of Trozena through seven complexes. The plan includes:
64 houses in total: The construction of 48 new traditional houses and the complete restoration of 16 existing ruined buildings are planned.
Traditional architecture: All units will be constructed with local stone and tiles, preserving the historical character of the area.
Accommodating capacity: The residences, mainly one-bedroom, will be able to accommodate up to 132 people.
Central to the revitalization of the local economy is the creation of infrastructure that highlights local products.
Winery: It is proposed to build a small-scale winery, with a capacity of 40,000 bottles per year, corresponding to about 40 tons of grapes per year, which will include a tasting room, a wine cellar and a production area.
Vineyards: Parts of the plots that will not be built will be converted into new vineyards, strengthening the rural landscape.
Multi-purpose dining area: In an existing building that will be expanded, there will be a restaurant with a capacity of 100 people, along with reception areas and offices.
The project also extends to services aimed at visitors seeking contact with nature:
Wellness center: The creation of a gym and spa areas is planned.
Camping sites: The design includes infrastructure for camping, promoting alternative forms of mild tourism in nature.
Environmental protection and Natura 2000
Given that the area is adjacent to the "Ha-Potami" protection zone of the Natura 2000 network, the study focuses on minimizing the impact. The revitalization will take place mainly in already disturbed areas in the old residential core, while measures to protect the local vegetation will be taken for the construction.
The project is expected to be completed gradually over a period of at least two years, depending on obtaining the necessary permits. The MEOA states that for each individual installation, separate applications for the granting of planning permits will be submitted. It is noted that the construction works will not be carried out at the same time, but will be implemented in parts at different stages.
Overall, the JTD concludes that the regeneration of settlements can contribute to the conservation objectives of the Natura 2000 site, as long as human activity remains within the defined boundaries of the residential core.
The community of Gerovasa-Trozena consists of two almost adjoining settlements, which for centuries were lively agricultural centers with agriculture and livestock farming as their main activities.
Specifically:
• Gerovasa was a settlement with a Turkish Cypriot population, which had been continuously inhabited since the Ottoman period. The name "Gerovasa" means "sacred valley". During the British occupation, the population increased and the village became a point of reference for local agriculture. The village was abandoned in 1964 due to bi-communal riots.
• Trozena was a Greek Cypriot settlement with references from the 19th century as a manor. Despite its small size, it retained a core of traditional life until the 1990s, when it was abandoned due to urbanization and lack of infrastructure, mainly electricity.
