Cyprus extends urban planning incentives for education sector until 2027

The Cyprus Council of Ministers has decided to extend the urban planning incentives program for the education sector until the end of 2027. First implemented in 2025, the scheme is designed to promote the development of primary and secondary educational infrastructure and accelerate licensing processes. In the first year of operation, 30 planning applications were submitted nationwide, with 10 projects benefiting from the scheme's provisions. Incentives include an increase in the building coefficient by 10% to 25%, depending on the region, and a 25% reduction in mandatory open and sports space requirements, subject to approval by the Ministry of Education, Sport and Youth. The program also facilitates a fast-track licensing process within a four-month timeframe. Furthermore, the scheme requires a reduced compensatory payment, which is directed to the Special Fund for Affordable Housing of the Cyprus Land Development Corporation. This extension serves as a bridge while the government re-evaluates educational standards and maximum density coefficients within the ongoing revision of Local Plans for major urban areas.