| |
|
|
Jun 4 2008
|
|
Cyprus landmark saved from demolition |
People on villa holidays in Cyprus may still be able to visit a much-loved attraction in Paphos this summer after it was saved from demolition by locals.
A court order has been issued for the destruction of the Riccos Beach cafe in Yeroskipou as its owner, Andreas Xenofontos, does not have a licence, despite owning some form of cafe on the beach since 1975.
Bulldozers arrived yesterday (June 3rd) to tear down the cafe but were met by a chain of locals eager to protect the popular meeting place, reports the Cyprus Mail.
Paphos resident Susan Andreou told the newspaper: "I come to Riccos every weekend during the summer. It is the best beach in Paphos, and I have a snack with my family.
"Riccos is part of Paphos. It would be like blowing up Aphrodite's rock. It's disgraceful what the government are trying to do. Give the man a permit and let him stay."
Mr Xenofontos has asked to be allowed to stay open until after the summer season to meet demand from people on villa holidays and other tourists in Paphos.
Local councillor Panicos Skordis told the Cyprus Mail he would help the cafe owner but warned they could be fighting a losing battle as the order to destroy the establishment came from the government.
Click here to browse and book online the VillaCentre range of villas in Cyprus
|
|