The Federation of Environmental Organisations of Cyprus (OPOK) has called for an environmental assessment and public consultation before any final decision is taken on antennas at Akrotiri.
In an announcement, OPOK said the British Bases’ plan to install new antennas in the Merra area of Akrotiri puts the spotlight on the protection of an area of particular ecological value that is already under multiple pressures. “The potential impacts on the environment, public health and the quality of life of residents must be examined comprehensively, on the basis of specific and verifiable evidence, before any final decisions are taken,” it said.
OPOK has submitted a memorandum to the House Environment Committee asking for all necessary studies to be carried out, the required environmental and ecological assessment procedures to be completed, and the necessary approvals and permits to be secured. The assessment, it said, must cover the whole project, including supporting infrastructure, and be accompanied by transparency and meaningful public consultation.
“Comprehensive protection of Akrotiri must cover the entire wetland system and its catchment area. This includes areas under the control of the Republic of Cyprus that affect the wetlands within the British Bases,” the announcement said. It added that the federation’s long-standing position remains the long-term and effective protection of the whole peninsula, taking into account the interactions between different activities.
OPOK called on the competent authorities and the British Bases administration to cooperate in observing all the necessary procedures, without creating faits accomplis. “The protection of the Akrotiri peninsula and the safeguarding of a healthy, clean and safe environment for residents must be a basic criterion of every decision on the area,” it said.
