A neglected Capital Governorate seaside stretch could soon get a new lease of life, with plans being pursued to overhaul the Ma’ameer Corniche and walkway and turn it into a more attractive family destination.
The waterfront, which offers residents a place to walk, exercise and enjoy the sea, is awaiting maintenance, refurbishment and landscaping after years of wear and tear left several of its facilities in need of attention.
Capital Trustees Board services and public utilities committee chairman Mohammed Tawfeeq Al Abbas said residents’ demands for improvements were being followed up with the relevant authorities.
He said the committee had raised the needs of the Ma’ameer walkway and waterfront with Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Minister Wael Al Mubarak as part of wider efforts to improve ageing parks and public walkways across the Capital Governorate.
“We are closely following the demands of Ma’ameer residents to develop the waterfront and walkway and raise the standard of services and facilities available there,” Mr Al Abbas said.
“The site has the potential to become an important family recreational area serving residents and visitors, but this requires proper maintenance and rehabilitation of its facilities.”
Among the residents’ demands is the replacement of damaged children’s play equipment and outdoor fitness facilities, alongside more extensive maintenance, beautification and landscaping.
They have also called for additional shaded areas and seating, as well as repairs to lighting, public facilities and other services surrounding the walkway and waterfront.
One of the more pressing issues is a water tank which has remained out of operation, affecting irrigation and the upkeep of the greenery around the site.
Mr Al Abbas said restoring the tank would help ensure regular watering and protect the green spaces that form an important part of the waterfront’s appeal.
“The requests are not limited to cosmetic improvements. They include essential facilities and services that directly affect how residents use and enjoy the site,” he said.
“The damaged play areas, fitness equipment, lighting, seating, shade structures and irrigation system all require attention if we want the walkway to function properly as a public space.”
The committee has referred the requirements to the relevant authorities for follow-up and inclusion in maintenance and development programmes.
Work is expected to take place next year, subject to approved plans and implementation schedules.
The proposed improvements come as public demand grows for more accessible outdoor spaces where families can spend time together and residents can exercise close to home.
Mr Al Abbas said the waterfront’s location and existing facilities gave it strong potential to become a popular destination for families and walkers once the necessary improvements were completed.
“Ma’ameer waterfront has all the ingredients to become an attractive destination for families and people who enjoy walking and outdoor activities,” he said.
“Developing it will not only improve the appearance of the area, but also maximise the benefit residents and visitors can get from this public asset.”
He praised residents for continuing to highlight shortcomings and put forward suggestions, saying their feedback was important in identifying priorities for public facilities.
“The Capital Trustees Board and the committee will continue to follow up the needs of different areas and raise them with the relevant authorities,” Mr Al Abbas said.
“For Ma’ameer, our priority is to see the waterfront and walkway restored, upgraded and equipped to meet the needs of the community.”
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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