A parliamentary proposal to establish a national fund for the repair, remodelling and renovation of old residential areas has been rejected by the Muharraq Municipal Council, igniting a debate over funding responsibilities and the role of the government in urban renewal.
The fund’s proposal, spearheaded by five MPs led by Hamad Al Doy, was designed to receive obligatory contributions from the government alongside voluntary support from businesses and companies.
The initiative aimed to preserve historical neighbourhoods, enhance housing conditions and modernise aging infrastructure.
While the council’s financial, administrative, and legislative committee recommended the proposal for approval, it ultimately faced resistance, particularly from council chairman Abdulaziz Al Naar, who raised concerns about the sustainability of funding.
Mr Al Naar questioned the reliability of the government’s contributions, warning that if the state were to withdraw support, the burden would unfairly shift to the private sector.
“The government is obliged to contribute, but what if it pulls the plug?” he asked. “Will the private sector, businesses and companies, continue contributing to the fund?
“The set-up of the fund is completely wrong, despite its noble goals.”
Mr Al Naar argued that renovating old neighbourhoods should remain the government’s responsibility, both financially and administratively, through the state budget.
“If others come on board, they are thankfully welcome,” he said. “But it should always be the government handling the issue financially, administratively and technically.”
In contrast, Mr Al Doy defended the proposal, stressing the urgent need for a structured, multi-stakeholder approach to revitalise deteriorating residential areas.
“Relying solely on the state budget has proven ineffective,” Mr Al Doy said. “Many projects for the renovation of old neighbourhoods have stalled due to budget constraints.
“A dedicated fund ensures there is an ongoing commitment to fixing these issues.”
He dismissed concerns about government withdrawal, pointing out that the law could include guarantees for continued contributions and that the private sector’s involvement would lessen the financial strain on the state.
“This is a shared responsibility,” he argued. “Businesses benefit from a better urban environment, and the government alone cannot keep up with the growing need for housing repairs and infrastructure improvements.”
Mr Al Doy also highlighted the economic benefits of revitalising old areas, suggesting that upgraded neighbourhoods attract investment, boost property values and improve the overall quality of life for residents.
With the Muharraq Municipal Council rejecting the proposal, its future remains uncertain.
However, Al Doy and his allies have vowed to push the initiative forward at parliamentary level, possibly amending aspects of the proposal to address concerns about government commitment.
Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Minister Wael Al Muabrak now awaits the decisions of the Southern and Northern Municipal Councils and the Capital Trustees Board before forwarding the compilation to Parliament Speaker Ahmed Al Musallam.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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