Nicosia's new metropolis: Successful reform brings financial upswing and improved citizen services
Introduction
Since the introduction of the municipal reform in Nicosia two years ago, the newly formed metropolitan region has shown significant progress. Mayor Charalambos Prountzos reported that the deficit has been reduced by 80 percent and that over three-quarters of citizen requests have already been processed.
Financial consolidation and organizational innovations
The merger of several municipal authorities presented Nicosia with financial and organizational challenges, which were overcome. A total of 659 decisions have been made since the reform, all characterized by a transparent, collaborative process. Financial recovery was achieved through stricter controls on revenues and expenditures, as well as measures against tax evasion.
Improved services and citizen participation
The city administration consolidated its services into five service centers, a unified call center, and expanded digital offerings. Of 22,594 inquiries across 84 categories, more than 77 percent have been resolved, while the remainder are still being processed.
Commitment to the environment and public health
In the area of environmental management, over 22,000 trees were planted and 1,052 green spaces were maintained. Waste management improved by 50 percent; currently, 177 parks and 106 playgrounds are being maintained, 15 of which were newly created or modernized. Furthermore, more than 4,500 truckloads of garden waste, bulky waste, and residual waste were removed, 2,199 decommissioned vehicles were disposed of, and 122 environmental fines were issued. For pets, there are now 21 feeding stations for cats and new dog parks. In addition, 883 food establishment inspections were conducted.
Digital development and sustainable projects
Digitalization includes an automated irrigation system, the development of a geographic information system, and already functioning applications for smart parking and waste management. The Smart Cyprus project also plans to install 7,000 sensors. Furthermore, the city is committed to sustainable development with the establishment of Cyprus's first citizen energy community, "Lefkothea.".
Culture, social affairs and urban development
Nicosia boasts a vibrant cultural scene with over 150 events annually, three municipal museums, and numerous international awards. In the social sphere, 3,578 people benefited from assistance programs. Funding for social programs in 2026 reached nearly €3 million, a record high. The revitalization of the historic center is further supported by the establishment of campuses in Faneromeni, the campus of the Universities of Athens and Cyprus, which is expected to attract approximately 1,000 students by 2029.
Citizen satisfaction increases
According to a recent survey by the Cyprus Forum Cities, residents' approval of the city administration's work rose from 66 to 73 percent within a year.