The administrative appeals court rejected the attempt by eight village councils to block the construction of an asphalt plant in Mitsero, Nicosia district, allowing the project to proceed pending an appeal. The councils from Mitsero, Agrokipia, Ayios Ioannis, Kato Moni, Arediou, Meniko, Malounta, and Orounta had sought to halt the plant’s development, citing potential environmental and public health risks.

Planning permission was granted with the intention of replacing the existing asphalt plant in Dali, which has long been a source of complaints due to its proximity to schools and the unpleasant fumes it emits. However, the appeals court determined the councils had not provided sufficient evidence to prove the proposed plant would cause irreparable harm.

Construction can now move forward while the court of appeal prepares for a final hearing, which will make a definitive ruling on the plant’s future.