The intense concern over the ongoing delay in announcing new planning zones within the British Bases of Dekelia is expressed by the Council of Community Services Complex of Dekelia.
In its announcement, the Complex – consisting of the communities of Ormideia, Xylotymvou, and Xylofagou – states that despite commitments to announce the policy statement regarding new planning zones within the British Bases of Dekelia by the end of last year, there has been no clear update or response from the authorities to date.
As a sign of protest, the Dekelia Complex is organizing a protest event on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at 10:00 AM, in front of the Dekelia Police Station.
Simultaneously, it calls on citizens to participate massively and peacefully, aiming to send a powerful message of respect, justice, and equal treatment for the affected communities.
Speaking to afentiko.eu and menoumekypro.com, the President of the Council of Community Services Complex of Dekelia, Mr. Sotiris Kekouris, mentioned that generally, communities within the British Bases are significantly disadvantaged compared to other communities not under the Bases, especially regarding development. He emphasized that these are downgraded areas where residents have been waiting for years for promises from the British side to be fulfilled without any substantial result.
“Development within the British Bases is systematically avoided,” he stated, “which is seen as mockery towards local communities. For this reason, publicity is sought for the problem affecting these three communities”.
When asked if there is a specific timeline or request that the Council of Community Services Complex of Dekelia will submit to the Bases, Mr. Kekouris noted that as part of the mobilizations, a protest memorandum will be submitted requesting immediate and clear answers, as well as a specific timeline for when an announcement regarding planning zones will be issued.
Responding to how communities will ensure their voice is heard effectively, he mentioned that all citizens from the three communities – totaling approximately 20,000 people – which constitute the largest population complex nationwide, have been invited to send a strong message in every direction.
The decision of the Dekelia Complex is that protests will continue towards the authorities of the British Bases and expand to other areas. The mobilizations,” stressed Mr. Kekouris, “are expected to be intense, with the first taking place peacefully.”
The British Bases were asked for their views on the matter; however, there was no response.
