Bahrain’s first World Heritage Site could be given a major new waterfront attraction, with a two-kilometre walkway among several alternative locations being considered after authorities ruled out a proposed site because of its impact on the historic landscape.
The proposal to transform the Karbabad coastline around Bahrain Fort into a more accessible public destination remains alive, with the Urban Planning and Development Authority (UPDA) confirming that the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (Baca) is not opposed to the idea itself. The stumbling block is where the walkway and associated coastal facilities should be located.
UPDA chief executive officer Ahmed Al Khayat said the authority had examined an initial proposal and recognised the tourism and recreational importance of creating a beach close to the Bahrain Fort Museum.
However, he said the specific site suggested for the project could not be registered because of heritage-protection concerns governing the Unesco-listed site. “The site’s exceptional universal value requires protecting the historical and visual relationship between the fort and its coastal surroundings,” Mr Al Khayat said.
He added that Baca had requested alternative proposals that comply with the applicable heritage frameworks and the rejection of one suggested site does not mean the wider vision had been abandoned.
Capital Trustees Board chairman Saleh Tarradah said the response from the authorities was ‘positive’ and that a number of alternatives had been suggested, including a potential 2km walkway behind the Fort.
“There is no rejection – it is just about the location,” Mr Tarradah said. “I have seen the full response and it is positive. The government gave us alternative locations, including a walkway. We will work with the government to find a suitable location, preferably the 2km walkway suggestion, as well as look at other potential sites, and secure the necessary approvals and budgets in the future.”
Mr Tarradah said the latest response means that vision now enters a new phase: finding
the right location.
“With several alternatives reportedly on the table, the proposed 2km route could ultimately provide a substantial new public space while meeting the strict visual and conservation requirements attached to Bahrain’s first World Heritage Site,” he added.
The issue has particular significance for board financial, administrative and legislative committee chairman Dr Abdulhassan Al Dairy, who lives in the area. He originally proposed a coastal enhancement project at a different location to the one rejected by the authorities. He believes the next step should be further consultation with Unesco to identify the most suitable place and design for a walkway that would enhance the area without compromising its heritage status.
Dr Al Dairy said Bahrain could draw inspiration from regional waterfront developments, such as in Saudi Arabia, while creating its own model. “We can do it differently and in line with Unesco’s visibility-angle requirements,” he said. “There is already a path around the fort but it is not enough,” Dr Al Dairy said.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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