Dialogos

Scathing Report on the Forestry Department: Land Leases Without Documentation, Delays, and Loss of Millions

Published January 27, 2026, 08:01
Scathing Report on the Forestry Department: Land Leases Without Documentation, Delays, and Loss of Millions

A report by the Auditor General reveals significant weaknesses in the management and leasing of state forest land in Cyprus for the period 2018-2024. The report documents insufficient documentation, non-compliance with procedures, delays in environmental assessments, and inadequate contract supervision, even in Natura 2000 areas. Specifically, it refers to the leasing of double the initially requested land in the community of Foinou for an 'Adventure Park' without additional documentation, as well as problems with the leasing in the Machairas National Forest Park, where public benefit and the presence of protected species were not adequately assessed. In the Polemidia National Forest Park, projects for special schools proceeded before the legal lease of the land and the completion of environmental studies, despite objections from the Forestry Department. Furthermore, the report highlights significant delays in reviewing rents for hotels in Ayia Napa, legal loopholes, and loss of revenue for the state, estimated at €1.3 million by the end of 2024. Other findings include violations of lease terms by sailing clubs, encroachments on coastal forest zones by hotels, decades-long pending issues in reconciling state land records with the Land Registry, and unresolved cases of illegal occupation of forest land. The report emphasizes the need for improved leasing processes, environmental compliance, transparency, and financial management. The Auditor General stresses that the current practice of spontaneous applications without open and competitive procedures does not guarantee good governance or the protection of the public interest. The report provides a comprehensive record of the problems facing the Forestry Department and proposes specific actions to improve the management of state forest land.