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Local Authority Responds to Audit Office Report on 'Ghost Building'

Published March 26, 2026, 13:30
Local Authority Responds to Audit Office Report on 'Ghost Building'

The Nicosia Municipal Authority (NMA) responded to a Special Report by the Audit Office regarding an unfinished building in Nicosia, referred to as a 'ghost building'. The NMA states that the case highlighted a gap in the legislation regarding incomplete developments and commits to promoting amendments to the Ministry of Interior. It points out that the approval of the building's skeleton is done in the building permit and not in the urban planning permit, and that the responsibility for the static study lies with the designers. In addition, the use of the property is in accordance with the urban planning zone, allowing both shops and cafes. The NMA emphasizes that building permits remain valid as long as urban planning permits remain active, and that the owner has already submitted an application for a revised building permit. It proposes the renewal of the permit as the most appropriate solution, respecting the Constitution and the owner's vested right.