A three-storey building project proposed for the heart of Lautoka City has attracted strong opposition from local residents and social media users.
Funded by the Lautoka City Council, the project at Coronation Park, which borders the Coronation Church compound, is earmarked for major development to boost the town’s economy.
However, city residents are wary of the possibility the project could be another failed business venture, similar to that of the multi-million-dollar Lautoka swimming pool which is yet to be opened.
Lautoka Residents and Ratepayers Association president, Narayan Reddy said the Sugar City is known for its open spaces and parks.
“The first park that we lost was part of Churchill Park which was given to Tappoos and then we lost part of Shirley Park for a development that, to this day, is still closed off to the public,” Mr Reddy said.
“And if you look around Lautoka City now, there are not a lot of parks left.
“Coronation Park has always been there for people who come to the library, Coronation Church, Churchill Park, those who visit government offices, the Lautoka court, they go through that park.
“It is a small park and people always use that area.”
Mr Reddy said they did not understand the need for another hotel development since a similar venture was taking place just metres from Coronation Park.
“There was a proposal a few years back for Coronation Park to be used for another project but at that time, people had also disagreed with that plan.
“We will continue to oppose it very strongly.”
Mr Reddy said the Government should step in and stop the project from moving forward given their opposition to the Shirley Park project when FijiFirst was in power.
Council special administrator Taitusi Rasoki Kata said the proposed project would include a three-storey building for various purposes.
“Any development that happens within the city area results in a lot of positives for the economy and the first one being the creation of jobs,” Mr Kata said.
“This is also a form of revenue for the council.”
Mr Kata said residents and stakeholders would be given an opportunity to express their views at a public consultation at the council’s chambers at 10am on October 23.
Meanwhile, the Lautoka Chamber of Commerce and Industry says it supports the project because of the economic activity it will bring to the city.
