A call has been made to convert the land occupied by Bahrain Quarry – which is nearing the end of its operational lifespan – into public parks and recreational facilities for communities in the Southern Governorate.
The proposal, submitted by MP Lulwa Al Romaihi, has received unanimous backing from Parliament’s public utilities and environment affairs committee. The site is located near Jaw, Askar and Khalifa Town.
The proposal calls for developing a range of recreational and service facilities for residents at the site, alongside extensive tree planting to help combat desertification and improve environmental sustainability.
Ms Al Romaihi said the initiative reflects residents’ long-standing demands for improved quality of life.
“This proposal is about turning an industrial site into a space that gives back to the community,” she said. “Families in Jaw, Askar and Khalifa Town need accessible parks, recreational outlets and green areas, and this project can deliver both social and environmental benefits.”
She added that the plan aligns with broader national goals on sustainable land use.
“We must think ahead and ensure that land nearing the end of its industrial use is repurposed in a way that serves people and protects the environment,” she said.
The Municipalities and Agriculture Affairs Ministry, in its response, stated that the quarry land had been allocated to another government entity and would require formal reclassification and co-ordination before redevelopment.
The Works Ministry said the matter fell outside its remit, while the Southern Municipal Council formally endorsed the proposal, praising its developmental and service-oriented objectives.
Parliament services committee chairman MP Mohammed Al Bulooshi said the proposal represents a practical model for post-industrial redevelopment.
“The committee found clear public interest justification in this proposal,” he said. “It addresses environmental concerns, enhances public services and ensures optimal use of land that would otherwise remain underutilised once quarry operations cease.”
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