MPs to debate turning quarry land into parks

TDT | Manama

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Parks and leisure spaces are set to be discussed by the Council of Representatives on Tuesday under a proposal to reuse the land occupied by Bahrain Quarry in the Southern Governorate, as the quarry nears the end of its working life.

The proposal, submitted by MP Lulwa Al Rumaihi, seeks to turn the site opposite Askar, Jaw and Khalifa City, near King Hamad Highway, into public parks, gardens and recreation areas, with service facilities for residents.

It also calls for tree planting to help curb desertification.

Idea

In an explanatory note, Al Rumaihi said the aim was to make use of the quarry site for public benefit, linking the idea to an initiative associated with Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, the wife of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, under the slogan “Forever Green”.

The Council’s Public Utilities and Environment Committee recommended approval after studying the proposal, with all members present agreeing to back it, citing public-interest grounds.

The Ministry of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture told the committee the quarry land is not listed among properties under municipal affairs, but is assigned to another government entity.

Decision

Any change in use would first require a decision to reassign the plot by the body responsible for government land-use designations, followed by coordination with service agencies, it said.

The ministry added that the final view rests with the government in light of developments at the time, and asked that the Speaker of the Council of Representatives be informed.