A new study by the Society and Urban Form Lab (SURF) through the TWIN2EXPAND project, was developed in collaboration with the Cyprus Ministry of Transport, Communication and Works and Cyprus Post, focusing on improving access to citizen services across the country. The research evaluates the locations of Citizens’ Service Centers (KEPs) and Citizens’ Centers (KEPOs), which operate within selected post offices as well as potential new locations, to ensure better accessibility and equitable distribution of services for all populations.

Using spatial analysis, the study examines both existing and potential service locations to assess how effectively they serve the population. The analysis is conducted at three levels:

• National Scale: Evaluating accessibility for the entire population of Cyprus.
• Community Clusters Outside Urban Areas including the Famagusta area: Addressing accessibility in mountainous, rural and semi-rural areas.
• Urban Scale in Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaca and Paphos: Focusing on accessibility within cities.

Fig. 1 Population reach analysis of service centres at 15Km radius. Left: Cyprus; middle: Nicosia district; right: Paphos district.

The findings identify areas where access can be improved and provide recommendations for optimizing service locations. By implementing evidence-based planning, the study supports sustainable development goals and ensures a more equitable distribution of services, addressing the needs of both urban and rural communities.

This collaborative effort demonstrates the value of spatial analysis in public service planning and highlights the importance of using data-driven approaches to inform policy and infrastructure decisions. The results of the study are expected to guide future initiatives aimed at enhancing citizen access to essential services.

Fig. 2 Meeting between SURF Lab and Cyprus Post to discuss research findings.