17.02.2021
On Wednesday, the government announced new housing schemes and incentives with a focus on rural areas and youth. The schemes, previously approved by the Cabinet of Ministers, are aimed at further supporting the economy and entrepreneurship.
The new plans were presented in detail at a press conference at the Presidential Palace by Interior Minister Nikos Nouris. In his speech, President Nikos Anastasiades said the government wants to turn rural and less privileged areas into attractive places to live and do business. He added that the goal is for young families to choose these areas for their permanent residence, and for investors and entrepreneurs to come here and start their business.
The schemes provide accommodation incentives that will benefit more communities and offer unique business opportunities. In his speech, the President also referred to plans already in place, such as the new strategy for the Troodos mountain communities, which includes 250 actions and is implemented by 2030. The budget of the strategy is 250 million euros.
He also mentioned local projects aimed at developing health care, education, social services and culture, such as the modernization of the Kyperunta hospital, the establishment of medical centers in a number of communities and villages, the modernization of nursing homes, kindergartens and other institutions that improve the quality of life of citizens.
Budget allocated in the period 2014-2020 for the implementation of the above policy amounted to 62 million euros, and in the period from 2021 to 2022. it will amount to 21 million euros.President Anastasiadis mentioned tourism projects aimed at promoting these areas as attractive destinations, as well as projects to improve the road network.
Interior Minister Nikos Nouris said the housing schemes are aimed at citizens who want to have permanent residence in rural areas. The scheme was first launched in 2019 and has so far benefited from 226 applicants for a total of €6.5 million. The scheme will now include 130 additional communities to reach a total of 258. The financial assistance is up to 55,000 euros.
The second housing program targets certain rural areas and the minister said a total of 128 communities are expected to benefit. Financial assistance for a family of four is up to 20,000 euros. The application can be submitted from March 1 to December 31, 2021.
The government also announced the payment of benefits ranging from 400 to 600 euros to families permanently residing at least 40 km from the city center. Applicants can submit their applications starting April 2.
The minister also introduced 2 new schemes for small and medium enterprises aimed at increasing their financial activity.
