AMIDST ALL THE talk coming from the political platforms across Barbados, hopefully, just hopefully, some of the politicians and indeed the parties will spend a little time on the issue of city renewal.
It may not be one of the hot-button issues nor may it mean much for those who do not live or work in our capital. But there is good reason why a vibrant, clean and appealing Bridgetown is of importance to all this country’s citizens.
While the efforts being led by the Barbados Chamber of Commerce & Industry are welcoming, the drive to get Bridgetown as a place where people will want to live, operate businesses and attract visitors must be a national effort – one involving Government, the private sector, the trade unions, University of the West Indies and, of course,non-governmental organizations.
In recent years we have witnessed a shift in business operations by some sectors to Warrens, Haggatt Hall and Sheraton, which must be welcomed as such developments take some of the pressure off Bridgetown.
These centres are taking off and offer a different kind of experience and opportunity to what obtains in The City.
We cannot just talk about renewal of our capital with an emphasis on the business community and give no consideration for those who already live there and on its outskirts, often in deplorable conditions.
The plan to build modern high rise housing must be pursued, while those existing housing districts need to be re-developed, removing the eyesore some now present.
And while we plan for City renewal, there must be effective provision for vending in a meaningful way, recognizing that this is also a legitimate business activity which can employ a large number of people.
There is also need to provide more green spaces and generally plant more of the appropriate trees in The City where possible, which can complement the unique architecture of some historic and older buildings.
It makes little sense undertaking these efforts if we are not going to help those vagrants on our City streets; reaching out to ensure the mentally ill get medical help, helping those afflicted by drug addiction and those who simply have nowhere to live.
We also need to keep Bridgetown clean at all times, not only for tourists but moreso for those of us who live and work there.
The opportunities are certainly there to attract more cruise visitors and indeed businesspersons to visit Bridgetown, whether to shop or see some of the historic sites; and this therefore offers the opportunity to develop waterfront entertainment without the excessive noise, and most certainly to grow water-based activities along the Careenage.
Hopefully, during the current campaign for the February 21 general election, some politicians will address the issue of city renewal as we need Bridgetown to be a place where more people will want to live, work and relax.
