THE HISTORIC GSP CLOCK
A NEW LEISURE SPACE FOR NICOSIA
LANDSCAPED GARDENS
A NEW MODERN APPROACH
REVITALISING NICOSIA'S CITY CENTRE
The new urban park that has transformed the old GSP stadium site into a new public green space is expected to help revitalise Nicosia’s city centre. The project, co-funded by the European Union, the state budget, and the Nicosia Municipality, has also delivered several commercial units within its grounds, making it an attractive prospect for business, as well as leisure. The park that makes up part of the city’s revitalised sustainable city centre has already begun to breathe new life into the area by attracting several daily visitors.
The new green space provides several modern amenities. These include a large public plaza for around 18,000 people and an underground parking facility with electric vehicle charging stations. The park’s overall design features a recessed centre and elevated edges, specifically designed to reduce traffic noise. The park’s water feature is specifically designed to improve the microclimate within its grounds.
The park also connects to other urban projects in the city via a transit hub. These include both Eleftheria and Solomon Squares, as well as other urban areas that are being revitalised. The park also offers nostalgia in the form of the restored iconic stadium clock. Standing by one of the entrances, the clock adds historical context to the park, linking the site with its previous life as a historic stadium.
A NEW MODERN EVENTS VENUE
The long-awaited new recreational area, on the site of Nicosia’s old historic GSP football stadium is complete. Offering a green, vibrant new space in the heart of the city, the four-year renovation project has cost more than €27 million. The redevelopment has seen the old stadium transformed into a new events venue. The new modern leisure space is part of a larger cultural hub that includes two elevated green areas surrounding the perimeter. The redevelopment aims to enhance Nicosia’s sustainability and bring new life to the area. The Municipality also hopes that the project will not only serve as a key urban renewal initiative but will also be embraced by both residents and visitors alike.
A HISTORIC SITE
Situated in the Strovolos area of the Nicosia district, the old historic stadium was home to the three biggest football clubs of Nicosia. APOEL, Olympiakos, and Omonia. With a capacity of just under 23,000, all three teams played their home matches at the stadium and it was also the home stadium of the Cyprus national football team. Although small by international standards, this stadium was the largest in Cyprus at the time. During its tenure it hosted several memorable football matches, some of which are still spoken of today.
THE OLD STADIUM CLOCK
Designed with easy access for the public in mind, the space will serve as an attractive public hub. The overall design concept pays homage to the old stadium, incorporating stadium-like structures within its design. The site also features the iconic clock from the old stadium adding nostalgia to its modernity. The landmark, which stands by the main entrance, recognises the site’s sporting history.
NEW FACILITIES
Co-funded by the European Union, the new hub intends to remain accessible for public leisure activities and the multiple event halls have the capacity to host thousands of visitors. In addition to several green spaces, the site also features a new Citizen Service Centre, which is located in the semi-basement of the main building. Other additions include a new outdoor amphitheatre with a giant screen, a multi-purpose hall, a waterfall, restaurants, cafes, and several retail outlets. The new underground car parks will have a capacity for over 500 car spaces and will include electric charging stations for electric cars.
NEW TRANSPORT LINKS
A new pedestrianised road, linking the Municipal Theatre area to the new Cyprus Museum, through the unified moat in Eleftherias Square has also been installed. This new connection will enhance mobility and provide easier access to both the old GSP site and the upgraded shopping centre. The Municipality of Nicosia has also partnered with Cyprus Public Transport to introduce minibuses that will transport visitors from the new site to the city’s historic centre. This is hoped to ease traffic congestion and encourage the use of public transportation.
GREEN SPACES
The green areas of the development are further enhanced by new trees. These have been planted in droves, enhancing the park’s green areas.
NEW MODERN GROUNDS
Facts
🌳 The brand-new, modern recreational area is the largest public space in the City of Nicosia
🌳 The new park is located at the former site of the old GSP stadium, between Grigori Afxentiou, Evagorou, and Vasileos Pavlou streets
Features
🌳 Illuminated cycling and walking paths for night-time perusal.
🌳 A 550-space two-level underground parking lot with EV charging stations
🌳 An open-air amphitheatre
🌳 A café and various restaurants
🌳 An exhibition gallery
🌳 Recreational areas that include two man-made hills
🌳 A historic clock that honours the beloved former football stadium
