Minstry launches subsidy scheme for Akamas landowners

The financial compensation of Akamas landowners was announced by the Ministry of Agriculture on Monday.

According to its announcement, the measure aims at the annual financial support of landowners through subsidy by hectare, provided for in the Akamas local plan.

The aim is to reward owners who keep their plots in a natural state, protecting the region’s unique biodiversity, as well as strengthen the socio-economic activity of communities and promote their sustainable development.

The subsidy amount has been set at €600 per hectare with a maximum annual subsidy of up to €6,600, and the total budget is €25 million, through 2028.

Natural and legal persons who own parcels of private land within the boundaries of the Akamas local plan, with areas falling within urban protection zones, as well as agricultural and livestock zones, which in total amount to around 93,460 decares, are eligible to apply.

“This measure, which is implemented for the first time, is part of the pre-election commitments of President Nikos Christodoulides and is one of eleven measures being promoted within the framework of the Akamas local plan,” the ministry announcement said.

“The measure aims to maintain a balance between development and environmental management of the area, ensuring long term benefits for residents and the environment,” it added.

The measure, which supports landowners for the next five years, will be reviewed at the end of this period, taking into account “benefits arising from additional measures already launched to further strengthen the area,” the ministry also said.

Support to landowners who need guidance in completing their applications has been organised at the community offices of Inia and Neo Chorio, on November 7 and 8, respectively.

The application period is from October 21, 2024 to November 21, 2024 and interested parties can submit their applications online here.