Supreme court confirms closure of Melios Zoo Park

The Supreme Constitutional Court of Cyprus has issued a final ruling upholding the closure of the Melios Zoo Park in Agioi Trimithias, rejecting an appeal filed by owner Menelaos Menelaou. The court confirmed the Administrative Court’s earlier decision to dismiss three consolidated appeals against the refusal of planning and operating permits. Key findings highlighted serious legal violations, including unauthorized expansions onto state and private land, deviations from approved development plans, and the introduction of large carnivores without adequate safety measures. Furthermore, the zoo was found to lack sufficient water supply, with existing permits deemed inadequate for its operational needs. Veterinary services have been seeking the closure of the facility since 2017 due to non-compliance with animal welfare standards. The court ordered Menelaou to pay 4,000 euros in legal costs. Despite the court ruling, the owner publicly stated on social media that the facility remains operational, claiming it will only be closed on Easter Sunday and Monday.