The request was discussed by the town’s development committee while some 20 residents protested outside.

The installations at Larnaca port will be used by energy giant Total that will be undertaking exploratory drilling off the island’s coast.

Apart from French Total, the town’s authorities have also received a request from Italian ENI for a year’s extension with an option for an additional six months after that, Mayor Andreas Louroudjiatis said. Total have a licence to explore within the offshore blocks 10 and 11, while ENI, in a joint venture with Korean Kogas, have permits for blocks 2, 3 and 9.

The meeting was attended by MPs, local authorities, professional bodies, unions, business organisations, and others.

“Serious reservations have been expressed but as part of a calm exchange of views,” the mayor said.

Outside, some 20 members of three resident groups expressed their opposition to an extension.

“Today’s meeting has an advisory purpose but it will shape views and we are here to say that we don’t want Larnaca to change; it is not fitting for this town to be industrial,” Eleni Moiseos said.

Source: Cyprus Mail