The best way to drive tourists away

Sir,

I am sending this letter to the press in anticipation of sensible action being taken to override the following fiasco.

I was amazed and horrified to discover yesterday that the local municipality propose to commence construction of the long awaited seaside walkway from Pernera to Protaras just as the tourist season begins.

Although this is a much needed venture and improvement to enable tourists to walk safely between the two resorts, why is it necessary to commence such a venture at this time of the year, especially as this project was planned several years ago?

Cyprus is becoming an expensive holiday destination compared to many other European countries and the local municipality appears to be doing all in their power to discourage the tourist by turning this whole area into a glorified building site during the peak holiday season.

The present pathway serves to give access to local amenities which tourists enjoy, as this represents the true vision of Cyprus. If these works continue there will be no suitable access. I am also reliably informed that insufficient notice was given to affected businesses and the work will also be carried out on land not owned by the municipality.

I would invite some comments from the Mayor, Director of public Works and any other person responsible for this project.

Don’t deter/frighten away the few tourist that may be here this year, let’s have some foresight and planning. Did anybody think about carrying out the works during the winter period, or is that too easy?

T. Norman

Paralimni