The Lautoka City Council has taken significant action by removing construction barriers that had partially closed off Shirley Park for nearly ten years. The barriers were initially placed after a proposal by P Meghji & Co in 2013 to develop a $23 million hotel and conference center with 100 rooms. Despite the plans, the project has not yet commenced, leading to frustration among local residents.
Council CEO Mohammed Anees Khan highlighted that the long-standing barriers had not only led to the overgrowth of unwanted vegetation but also posed safety hazards. Reports of public loitering and criminal activities in the enclosed area prompted concerns that necessitated the removal of the hoarding.
Following collaboration between the council and Lautoka police, an agreement was reached with the developer to dismantle the barriers. The council plans to clean the site and maintain the surrounding landscape to ensure the park remains a recreational area for the public while they await future development.
Previous to this action, the proposed hotel project faced strong opposition from the community. In response to a petition from residents, a Parliamentary Standing Committee on Natural Resources conducted an inquiry in 2015, concluding that the rezoning process for the project was not transparent and contained discrepancies.
This development marks a hopeful turn for Shirley Park, as local officials work toward revitalizing the space for community use until a more concrete plan for the site is established. It exemplifies the council’s commitment to enhancing public safety and recreational spaces, reinforcing positive engagement with residents about future developments in Lautoka.
In summary, the removal of barriers at Shirley Park signals a new chapter for the area, with the potential for increased community engagement and a focus on public safety. The commitment from local authorities to clean and maintain the park showcases their dedication to enhancing the quality of life for residents.
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