GOVT HAILS PRIVATE SECTOR’S ROLE IN EAST END PARK 

Chief Minister Honourable Dr. D. Orlando Smith and Minister for Education and Culture Honourable Lloyd Black have welcomed the role played by the private sector in the improvement of the East End Park.

The two Ministers were speaking at a rededication ceremony held at the park on Wednesday, December 20.

The Chief Minister said opening of the new East End Park was indicative of the “great future” that lies ahead for that community. The Chief Minister also said the communities’ favourable outlook is due to the efforts of Honourable Dr. Kedrick Pickering and Honourable Black, the representatives for the Seventh and Eighth Districts respectively, who have lobbied on behalf of the East End and Long Look communities.

 “Another reason why the East End and Long Look area has a great future ahead of it is because of this great cooperation between Government and the private sector,” the Chief Minister said, noting that the land where the park is located was leased by private individuals.

The Chief Minister said improvements in the East End/Long Look area are not limited to the new park.

 “We are busy developing the waterfront area, which is another major development earmarked for the East End/Long Look area and when that is combined with what is going on in the private sector there is no stopping the East End/Long Look community,” the Chief Minister said.

Honourable Black said many public and private sector individuals were involved in the East End Park project over the years and thanked them for their contributions.

He acknowledged the former Financial Secretary Mr. Allen Wheatley for his role in creating a better park for the East End community. He also recognised Messrs Samuel Hodge, William Colon, and Kenneth Colon for leasing the land for the East End Park project.

“The present landmass has almost been doubled from its original size and great care was taken, with supervision from the Conservation and Fisheries Department, to preserve the nearby mangroves,” he said.

The Eighth District Representative urged the community to make full use of the rededicated park. “Many activities have been traditionally held in the park and we are happy to offer an improved environment for our residents,” he added.

The rededicated East End Park has been outfitted with playground facilities, a gazebo, courtyard, amphitheatre, an open area for parties, and a ramp that allows public access to the adjoining seashore.