A proposal for a new BD500,000 coastal project in the Northern Governorate featuring a variety of outdoor and recreational activities has been presented.
Spearheading the idea, Constituency Two representative and Northern Municipal Council member Basem Abuidrees said the development would not only revitalise the Abu Subh Beach but also give families in Duraz and the surrounding areas an option for family gatherings.
He said that the project, which received unanimous approval in one of the Northern Municipal Council meetings, aims to transform the shoreline into a modern destination featuring state-of-the-art facilities and an exceptional waterfront.
“This development is expected to positively impact families, residents of the Constituency Two, and Bahrainis in general,” said Mr Abuidrees.
A new 1km-long walkway will be paved
“The project was well-received by relevant authorities including Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Minister Wael Al Mubarak.
“Preliminary blueprints for the first phase of the project are being drawn, and budget allocation is under review in order to select a contractor for the development work.
“The project has the potential to boost tourism and economic activity in Bahrain, and I urge other governorates to adopt similar ambitious proposals.”
Mr Abuidrees
Mr Abuidrees said that the proposal has attracted the attention of investors from Bahrain and other GCC countries.
Some of the features include facilities such as swimming pools, padel courts, billiards and football fields. A number of commercial shops and restaurants could also be opened.
The current surface, which is about 500 metres long, is expected to be repaved and replaced with a modern 1km-long walkway (500 metres each way) made of coloured asphalt, that would be used by people of the surrounding areas. Rocks in the area will be removed and replaced with beach sand for residents in the summer.
Additionally, about 50 kiosks featuring goods and services from local businesses and street vendors are also expected to be put up.
Mr Abuidrees stated that the kiosks will especially help female entrepreneurs in the area, which aligns with Bahrain’s efforts to empower women as part of the directives of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, wife of His Majesty King Hamad and Supreme Council for Women (SCW) president.
An artist’s impression of the project
The project also comes as part of the governorate’s bid to be designated as a ‘Healthy Governorate’ by the World Health Organisation.
In November last year, Northern Governor Ali Al Asfoor met a WHO delegation to evaluate the governorate’s eligibility for the recognition.
WHO officials also visited several health centres and Al Jasra Handicrafts Centre, showcasing successful experiences from various plans and projects established in the governorate.
So far, four cities in Bahrain have been recognised as a ‘Healthy City’. Umm Al Hassam became the first in 2018. Manama then followed in 2019, and became the first-ever capital in the Middle East to receive the designation. Busaiteen and A’ali were then recognised as the other two healthy cities in 2022.
Earlier this month, the Capital Governorate was recognised as a ‘Healthy Governorate’ making it the first in the Middle East to receive the accolade.
nader@gdnmedia.bh
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