FYTIRIS - NEW CENTRAL PRISON TO BE A ''SMALL COMMUNITY'' WITH 1,750 PERSON CAPACITY - Pafos Press 20/9
Minister of Justice and Public Order Costas Fytiris describes the new Central Prisons—planned for the Agios Sozomenos area—as a “small community” with a capacity of 1,750, featuring facilities for education, vocational training, addiction recovery, and therapeutic programs. He made these remarks in an interview with the *Simerini tis Kyriakis* newspaper.
Mr. Fytiris states that the new prisons are being designed as a modern correctional institution rather than merely a large detention building, noting that they will possess all the infrastructure required for the operation of a “small society.”
The new facilities are set to include vocational training workshops, therapeutic programs, addiction recovery areas, and a small hospital/treatment center. Furthermore, according to the Minister, inmates will have access to work, enabling them to receive training and acquire a professional skill set during their incarceration. Speed Kills
The plan provides for 1,750 places, compared to the approximately 650–700 available in the current facilities—which, as noted, currently house around 1,200 individuals. Pre-trial detainees—who account for roughly 30% of the current prison population (approximately 400 people)—will remain in two wings of the existing Central Prisons to facilitate easy transport to court hearings.
The project is currently in the master plan development stage, with Mr. Fytiris aiming to have "bulldozers on site" before the end of 2027. He describes it as a five-year project, though no specific operational date has been set yet.
Regarding costs, he notes that the initial estimate could reach €300 million, though the final figure will be determined once the studies and detailed plans are completed.
Addressing the reactions from local authorities and residents regarding the choice of Agios Sozomenos, Mr. Fytiris states he is open to consultation, noting that their views will be taken into account when the master plan is presented. He also emphasizes that the site consists of state-owned land rather than a residential area. Regarding the abandonment of the previous plan for Mathiatis, the Minister of Justice explains that the area required significant infrastructure—including road networks, water supply, and electricity—which would have increased costs.
At the same time, he notes that work and interventions are ongoing at the existing Central Prisons to improve detention conditions and staff working conditions.
Source: CNA
