THE revelation by those in the know that Levuka could be in danger of losing its World Heritage listing if it’s not looked after properly is a concern.
As Built Heritage expert Bart van Aller said, the historical buildings were decaying and there was a need for relevant authorities to fix it.
He should know having worked with the National Trust of Fiji in assessing the Levuka heritage homes from 2013 to 2017.
He wonders whether Fijians really care enough about these kinds of old colonial heritage buildings?
If the world wants to preserve these colonial remnants in Fiji and Levuka, he reckons, “the Western countries have to step in to lend a hand — deliver skilled people, materials and fund the projects”.
The next big question though would have to be whether this would then be maintained properly in the future? He believes there are no sentimental feelings about old buildings that have been lost.
In the face of underlying woes raised by the report on Pages 1 and 3 today, there are little bright spots that could aid in boosting the local economy.
It is good to note the short day trips guests from one of the island resorts make to Levuka Town.
Perhaps this is something the movers and shakers could promote.
There is obviously a need to repair some of the historical buildings in the heart of the town that are showing signs of age.
What we have here is a living piece of our history.
The people of Levuka had been trying to get recognition from UNESCO as a World Heritage Site for some time.
It is not every time that one gets to see buildings that have largely remained unchanged since the early 1800s. Founded around 1820 by European settlers and traders as the first modern town in Fiji, Levuka has since taken a backseat, with little economic activity.
While tourism plays a little part, residents feel there is room for improvement.
But first, there is a need for some form of incentive for people to visit Levuka.
The fact that the highway from Korovou to Natovi jetty and connecting route from Korovou to the western division on Viti Levu are now tarsealed is a major plus.
Forking out hundreds of dollars to take across a standard SUV, however, remains a major obstacle for many potential visitors to Levuka for instance.
The people of Ovalau need reassurance that their needs are noted and appropriate action is being taken to alleviate their woes.
