Green space stays: Government rejects plan to convert Maqaba park into youth playgrounds

TDT | Manama

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Plans to convert part of a public park in Maqaba into youth playgrounds were rejected, emphasizing the importance of preserving green spaces for residents.

The Northern Municipal Council had submitted the proposal, suggesting that part of a 1,200 square metre plot currently designated as a public park in Block 513 be reallocated to the Ministry of Youth Affairs to establish sports facilities linked to the Abu Saiba Youth Empowerment Centre.  

However, municipal authorities noted that studies showed the area already faces a shortage of parks and open green spaces relative to its population density. They noted that maintaining the land as a public garden remains a planning priority to ensure residents have accessible outdoor spaces.

Officials explained that while youth initiatives are important, reducing the limited green space available to residents would undermine broader urban planning goals aimed at improving environmental balance and quality of life.

They added that sports elements could still be considered as part of the overall design during future park development without changing the land’s primary function as a public garden.

For the community, the decision means the park will remain a shared space where residents gather, walk and enjoy one of the neighbourhood’s few natural retreats.