Construction of the first new homes for refugees is set to start in July, as part of the government’s ‘Ktizo’ initiative. This project aims to replace unsafe housing and provide habitable living spaces, with initial plans to demolish and rebuild 20 unfit apartment buildings, ensuring safety and community wellbeing.
When will construction of new homes for refugees begin?
Construction of the first new homes for refugees is set to start in July, as part of the government’s ‘Ktizo’ initiative. This project aims to replace unsafe housing and provide habitable living spaces, with initial plans to demolish and rebuild 20 unfit apartment buildings, ensuring safety and community wellbeing.
Rebuilding Unsafe Housing
The upcoming month of July marks a significant step forward as construction is poised to begin on the first new homes for refugees, a project initiated by the government. With safety in mind, the reconstruction aims to address the urgent need for habitable living spaces, replacing numerous apartment buildings previously declared unfit for residence. Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou has outlined the plans in a House refugee committee session, emphasizing the project’s focus on safety and community wellbeing.
The government’s ‘Ktizo’ initiative, which translates to ‘construction’ in English, was catalyzed by the dire state of 43 blocks of flats. The initial phase will see the demolition and reconstruction of 20 of these structures. Notably, a significant majority of current occupants, about 77.6 percent, have agreed to participate in this project. Nevertheless, a small fraction, 6.5 percent, have chosen not to be involved. Alternative arrangements, including subsidized rent and storage provisions, have been made for those opting to move out.
Evacuation and Demolition
In preparation for this ambitious project, five apartment buildings in the municipality of Latsia have been successfully evacuated and demolished. This process is not without its complexities, as some buildings have not been fully vacated. Ioannou highlighted that local authorities, under the Roads and Buildings Regulation Law, are vested with the power to issue evacuation orders for buildings deemed unsafe and perilous.
Delays in reconstruction attributable to the state will incur continued rent allowance for affected individuals. However, in instances where beneficiaries contribute to delays, their rent allowance may cease after a predetermined timeframe. The project’s progress is already underway, with a tender awarded for a building in Latsia, and pending offers for another in Strovolos expected shortly.
Tender Process and Future Steps
The tender process is a critical juncture in the rebuilding efforts, ensuring that the construction of new homes proceeds with transparency and efficiency. Tenders for the remaining buildings are in the pipeline, setting the stage for a comprehensive overhaul of the affected housing structures. This phase is instrumental in mitigating delays and facilitating the timely completion of the new homes.
The comprehensive effort reflects a broader commitment to not only improve living conditions but also reinforce the integrity of infrastructure within communities. As part of larger urban development plans, these new structures are poised to offer safe and modern living spaces, fostering a sense of renewal and hope for many families in need.
Construction on these new foundations is not merely about erecting buildings but also about laying the groundwork for vibrant, resilient communities. The anticipation for July grows as the project promises new beginnings and underscores the importance of safe housing as a cornerstone of dignity and stability for refugees.
What is the government’s ‘Ktizo’ initiative aiming to achieve?
The government’s ‘Ktizo’ initiative aims to replace unsafe housing and provide habitable living spaces for refugees. The project involves demolishing and rebuilding 20 unfit apartment buildings to ensure safety and community well-being.
How many buildings have been evacuated and demolished in preparation for the new refugee homes?
Five apartment buildings in the municipality of Latsia have been successfully evacuated and demolished in preparation for the construction of new refugee homes. Evacuation and demolition are essential steps to ensure the safety and integrity of the rebuilding process.
What happens if there are delays in the reconstruction of the new homes for refugees?
Delays in reconstruction due to factors within the state’s control will result in continued rent allowance for affected individuals. However, if beneficiaries contribute to delays, their rent allowance may cease after a predetermined timeframe. The government is committed to ensuring the timely completion of the new homes to provide safe and modern living spaces for refugees.
How is the tender process contributing to the rebuilding efforts for new refugee homes?
The tender process is crucial in ensuring transparency and efficiency in the rebuilding efforts for new refugee homes. Tenders for the remaining buildings are in progress, setting the stage for a comprehensive overhaul of the affected housing structures. This phase is essential for mitigating delays and facilitating the timely completion of the new homes, ultimately improving living conditions and infrastructure within communities.
