Sharing civic space with others for family recreation is the reason for government’s investment in the upgrading of Saunders Beach and Montagu Beach.
“Saunders Beach and Montagu are among two of the most popular traditional beaches for Bahamians on New Providence. Saunders Beach has been described by some as the ‘Poor Man’s Cabbage Beach’, but I say Cabbage Beach wished it looked this good,” said Earl Deveaux, Minister of the Environment at the June 6 Saunders Beach Town Hall Meeting, held in Cable Beach.
The government delivered the promise it made that it would create more public open spaces for the growing population to enjoy the waters of The Bahamas and vistas of the sea. Saunders Beach restroom facilities were added into the construction plans as a necessary human convenience to beach-goers, planning to extend their leisure time hours.
“Ladies and gentlemen, I fully support the Right Honourable Prime Minister in his recently expressed disagreement with the view that the restroom facilities at Saunders Beach are too expensive and perhaps too good for Bahamian beach-goers because a toilet is a toilet,” said Dr. Deveaux.
“I am proud to be a part of a government determined to provide Bahamians with recreational facilities of a standard deserved and indeed expected at this stage of our development. Since the restoration commenced, especially on weekends and holidays, people marvel at the changes and the widespread use of this beach by residents and tourists alike. The planned restoration will improve this popular beach by greatly expanding its limited space.”
Government wants Bahamians to feel they are involved in the infrastructural improvements to the environment. They would also like Bahamians to fully participate in respecting the space they share with their fellow citizens.
“I take this opportunity to remind users of the beach that it is being improved for their use. The increased littering, grilling on the grass, and parking on the curb will destroy what we have built for public use and enjoyment. So I urge you, use it wisely and keep it clean and treat it as the property for the next generation,” said Dr. Deveaux.
Over the last two years, these works have interconnected the Downtown Redevelopment Partnership to the Saunders Beach Reclamation and Restoration Programme, as well as, the New Providence Road Improvement Project.
“The Saunders Beach Reclamation and Restoration programme which you see today is a significant part of the New Providence Infrastructural Rehabilitation and Road Works. Together, Saunders Beach and Big Pond represent the centre-pieces of environmental and social mitigation for that infrastructural rehabilitation programme,” said Dr. Deveaux.
“The public is aware that Saunders Beach is being transformed into a beautiful seaside recreational park. In the near term, Saunders Beach is in store for significantly more expansion.”
By Gena Gibbs
Bahamas Information Services
