Nicosia’s Makarios Avenue redevelopment faces reversal as city prioritizes cars over pedestrians
Nicosia’s Makarios Avenue, recently redeveloped with traffic restrictions favoring pedestrians, may soon be reopened fully to private car traffic as authorities respond to city center decline. Officials blame the emptying of the capital’s core on limited road space and see increased car access as a solution, despite longstanding challenges from sprawling malls, high rents, and urban migration to suburbs.
A recent discussion at European Mobility Week 2026 highlighted that retail space in two major shopping centers outside the city center rivals that of three Makarios Avenues combined. Experts criticize political attitudes favoring road expansion over sustainable urban planning, noting induced demand effects where more road capacity leads to worsening congestion.
The debate raises concerns about the future vision for Nicosia, as calls for sustainable, pedestrian-friendly development clash with plans to accommodate more cars. Critics warn that prioritizing vehicles risks further draining the city center of people, undermining efforts to create an inclusive and vibrant urban environment.
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