Famagusta: Palm Beach belongs to the public, access to the sea must remain free

The district branch of the Republican Turkish Party (CTP) in Famagusta opposed the government’s initiative to transfer a plot of land on Palm Beach to a private company. The party’s statement notes that such a step threatens citizens’ right to free and unrestricted access to the sea.

It is emphasized that in Famagusta, the number of places where residents can reach the coastline is already limited. Palm Beach is one of the main recreational areas and a symbol of public space in the city. According to the party, transferring this area into private hands threatens the constitutionally guaranteed right to free and unhindered access to the sea.

The statement also notes that Palm Beach is public coastal land, and any decisions regarding its use must be made in the public interest and based on the right of citizens to free use.

The CTP called for taking environmental aspects and sustainable development principles into account for any changes concerning the beach. The party warned about risks of overdevelopment and environmental degradation, stressing the need to maintain balance between development and protection of public interests. It added: “Preserving people's natural connection with the sea, passing this value on to future generations and protecting public areas is a shared responsibility of all citizens.”

The party also demanded that any actions related to Palm Beach be carried out transparently and with public participation.
“The right to free access to the sea is inalienable and must be preserved under all circumstances,” the statement said.