STRATEGIC PLAN TO REGENERATE AND GIVE FUTURE DIRECTION TO THE CENTRAL AREA OF NICOSIA TURKISH MUNICIPALITY, CYPRUS

The northern part of Nicosia (Cyprus) has suffered a long period of isolation since the partition of the country and the establishment of a buffer zone through the city in 1974. As the situation eased since the principal pedestrian land crossings in the city centre opened in 2008, the central area of the city has experienced development pressure accompanied by critical lack of resources and infrastructure, while investment remained precarious and volatile.

The Strategic Plan, prepared for The World Bank with assistance of local and central administrations, identifies the future direction for the centre to align urban improvements, development policy, infrastructure and economic potential. Unusually, and very importantly given the local situation, the Plan originated from extensive stakeholder engagement (individual meetings, focus groups and larger workshops) and investigated the resources and assets that were available at local level, and crafted the project and policy plan to maximise impact and reduce dependence on outside donors.

The Plan includes a vision shared by the majority of stakeholders, which is at the foundation of strategic recommendations and an action plan. It proposes:

• The establishment over time of a Growth Coalition: a partnership between resource and asset holders to maximise proactive planning and management
• Governance improvements
• A clear framework for development
• Policies and investment projects