COUNCILLORS have renewed efforts to resume a coastal project in Demistan that has been delayed by five years.

A Royal decree was issued last year for land in the area to be bought by the government so it could be turned into public space.

Municipal and Urban Planning Affairs Minister Dr Juma Al Ka'abi laid the foundation stone of the project in February last year, but work has still not got underway.

"The Demistan beach project has finished its five-year anniversary without any serious implementations," said area councillor Jassim Al Mahdi.

"It is a seaside village and there is a great bond between the villagers and the sea. Therefore, we cannot deny the people their right of having their own coast, plus it is their right to have their own leisure space.

Demand

"The people were able through a committee in 2007 to win parliament support for the project and the coast scheme was inaugurated year and a half ago by Dr Al Ka'abi. However, we need to see it become a reality, because this is a Royal decree that must be activated instantly."

Residents in Demistan took to the beach yesterday as part of an annual festival to demand access to the shore.

"We held the festival to renew our call to protect the beach," said Mr Al Mahdi.

"Village residents, citizens and councillors have got together to make their voice heard in a festival that included different kinds of activities like beach clean-up, poetry session and children's contests.

bushra@gdn.com.bh