In a decision that has already sparked disappointment among urban advocates, the Nicosia Municipality Council voted on Thursday evening to lift the car ban on Makariou Avenue, reversing a key element of the capital’s pedestrian-friendly redevelopment.

The proposal, submitted by the Democratic Rally (DISY) municipal group, was approved by the council late on May 15. According to the adopted plan, private vehicles will now be allowed to enter the section of Makariou between Spyrou Kyprianou and Evagorou from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., in both directions, with one traffic lane each way. From 9:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m., only authorized vehicles will be permitted, maintaining the current restricted-access regime overnight.

Supporters of the change claim it will breathe new life into the central artery of the capital, which underwent significant renovation in recent years. But critics say the move ignores both data and public sentiment in favor of a more people-oriented city.

Yesterday, the Organisation for Positive Urbanism (OPU) had mobilized citizens to protest the decision, warning that reintroducing cars would undermine the street’s walkability, degrade its atmosphere, and make it less accessible to children, the elderly, and people with disabilities. The group stressed that car traffic won’t benefit local businesses since vehicles would mostly pass through without stopping, while increased noise and pollution would deter pedestrians and café culture.

“This decision takes Nicosia a step backward at a time when cities everywhere are prioritizing sustainability, active mobility, and livable public space,” OPU had stated ahead of the vote.

Despite these warnings, the council's decision aligns with a recurring pattern in Cyprus' urban governance—where long-term sustainability is often sacrificed for short-term optics.