Anemomilos Park: Complications following Central Archaeological Committee decision

The committee’s much-awaited decision was the final stage in settling the practice of unapproved building and unregulated exploitation of public space that has existed for many years. Business owners had come to an agreement with the town council in 2016. A site map had been drawn up and a study prepared, which were then sent to KAS for approval. Included in the Council’s study was a proposal to use light construction materials such as pergolas – approximately 45 sq. m. – and cafes/restaurants using wooden decks.

However, the archaeological committee’s decision rejects the Council’s proposals and says that instead of pergolas, umbrellas should be used and instead of wooden decks, gravel or pebbles. At Wednesday’s council meeting, the mayor, Kostas Nikolouzos, stated that he was going to ask the Minister of Culture, Lydia Koniordou, to re-examine the matter.

Opposition is also expected from businesses. According to business sources, several owners reckon that they could convert their existing constructions to comply with the new specifications agreed with the Council. However, the archaeological committee’s decision would mean completely dismantling what they have plus use of the land would be strictly limited to 5 months. The owners also claim that umbrellas would not be aesthetically compatible with the surrounding environment, nor would they be acceptable for health and safety reasons.

The café and restaurant owners’ association and the federation plan to meet soon in order to decide their next steps.