High-rise high profits high controversy

Purpose This paper aims to explore the relationship between recent instances of corruption in land-use development and the unique political landscape of Northern Cyprus, and how the centralized planning system fuels corrupt activities in land-use laws, manipulated by residential building construction companies. Furthermore, it seeks to emphasize the critical role of stringent regulations within Northern Cyprus’ real estate industry and highlights how the absence of consistent urban planning regulations fosters corrupt activities in land development. Design/methodology/approach The study uses an exploratory and narrative approach, delving into the political framework of Northern Cyprus. It aims to highlight the correlation between unplanned land-use development and the everyday business practices prevalent in the region. Furthermore, it delves into the narratives directly associated with the incidents discussed in this paper, as reported in newspapers and information gathered from the Chamber of Turkish Cypriot Urban Planners. Findings The findings indicate that the behaviours associated with clientelism, rent-seeking and nepotism, prevalent in the governing regime of Northern Cyprus, are not exclusive to politicians or land-use development; rather, these patterns are also exhibited as a whole in Northern Cyprus and supports the idea that internalized values and societal influences exert pressures that lead individuals towards engaging in corrupt and unlawful practices. Originality/value Although the paper adopts a narrative approach, it innovatively explores the challenges faced by states like Northern Cyprus in safeguarding public rights. This exploration sheds light on the intricate dynamics between city planning, rent-seeking behaviours and their swift entanglement with corruption. More research is necessary for this area of inquiry, especially as to how to enforce already in place regulations.