A proposal to create a new public garden in the historic agricultural village of Demistan, providing residents with a much-needed community space and enhancing the area’s green landscape, has been unanimously approved by the Northern Municipal Council.
The initiative was presented by Zaina Jassim, vice-chairwoman of the council and representative of the seventh constituency (Demistan, Buri, Janabiya, Quraya and parts of Hamala).
The proposal was reviewed by the council’s services and public utilities committee, chaired by Zainab Al Durazi.
Following the committee’s endorsement, the council unanimously approved the project and recommended that it be included in the 2027-2028 municipal development plan.
The proposed site, plot number (10040731) in Block 1019, lies on government-owned land under the Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Ministry, already designated for use as a public park according to its title deed.
“This project is about giving back to the people of Demistan – a village with a long agricultural heritage but very limited recreational spaces,” said Ms Jassim.
“Residents have been asking for a public park for years. It will finally provide families, children and the elderly with a clean, safe and green environment to enjoy within their own community.”
The proposal emphasises several key goals, including:
- Expanding green spaces across the Northern Governorate.
- Offering a recreational outlet and social gathering space for residents.
- Beautifying and developing the area with community-focused projects.
- Providing essential public amenities in a village that currently lacks them.
- Utilising government-owned land efficiently for the benefit of citizens.
- Responding directly to repeated public requests from Demistan residents.
Ms Jassim noted that Demistan, one of Bahrain’s oldest and most fertile villages, has long been known for its palm groves and farming traditions, yet modern recreational facilities remain scarce.
“We want to preserve Demistan’s identity while improving the quality of life for its people,” she explained. “Creating a public garden aligns with Bahrain’s national greening efforts and supports our vision of sustainable, community-centred development.”
In its technical review, the council’s support unit confirmed that no engineering or legal barriers prevent the establishment of a garden on the proposed site.
The land is suitable for landscaping and community use, with access to nearby roads and utilities.
Ms Jassim expressed appreciation to the services and public utilities committee and the council members for their unanimous support, noting that community engagement was a key driver behind the initiative.
“This approval is a victory for the residents who voiced their needs and for all who believe in sustainable village development,” she said. “Our goal is simple – to create a greener, healthier and more connected Demistan for future generations.”
Ms Al Durazi praised the initiative, describing it as ‘a practical and community-driven step toward enhancing livability in Bahrain’s villages’.
“Demistan deserves this development,” Ms Al Durazi said. “This is not just a beautification project – it’s an investment in the social well-being of residents. The new garden will serve as a green lung for the area, encouraging families to spend time outdoors and promoting environmental awareness among the younger generation.”
She added that the council aims to prioritise similar projects across villages that currently lack parks and recreational amenities, particularly those with available government land.
The proposal’s inclusion in the upcoming 2027-2028 project plan marks an important step in expanding the Northern Governorate’s network of public spaces and supporting Bahrain’s National Afforestation and Urban Sustainability Strategy.
The council’s recommendation will now be referred to the Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Minister Wael Al Mubarak for final approval and inclusion in the ministry’s capital projects for the next development cycle.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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