Construction of the new Archaeological Museum on the grounds of the old Nicosia hospital has run into challenges that could extend its completion date and increase costs beyond initial estimates. Originally slated for handover in July 2026 at a budget of approximately €144 million, the project may now be pushed to late 2027 or beyond, largely due to the contractor’s claim of an 11-month delay. According to reports, the main factor cited is the strike in the ready-mix concrete sector, which allegedly stalled work.

The Department of Public Works, however, emphasizes that while the contractor is requesting these extensions, any final decision rests with designated committees that review such claims. Officials also point out that not all of the delays mentioned—such as the strike period, changes requested by the employer, periods of excessive heat, and the discovery of leftover concrete from past constructions—will necessarily be approved in full. Nonetheless, construction progress has reportedly improved in recent months, aided by a strengthened workforce and resolutions to various technical issues.

Under the current contract, construction was anticipated to wrap up in 42 months, followed by a two-year maintenance period (with the potential for a 10-year maintenance agreement). Additionally, once the building itself is finished, an 18-month phase is needed to set up the museum’s exhibits. This places the museum’s official opening closer to 2028 rather than the original 2026 date.

Beyond scheduling concerns, there has been public criticism from the former Auditor General, who alleges that the tendering process was flawed from the outset. According to him, the initial plan envisioned a design-build approach at a much lower cost—around €42 million back in 2016. However, it was later switched to a conventional design-bid-build method, and only two bids were ultimately received, both significantly exceeding the government’s estimates. The former Auditor General had recommended canceling the tender due to insufficient competition and what he called “exorbitant” bids, but he claims that political pressures prevailed, culminating in a foundation stone ceremony just weeks before elections in early 2023.