?? |
| Prime Minister Freundel Stuart greets staff of the restaurant Subway during a recent tour. At right is Mara Thompson, widow of former Prime Minister David Thompson. (C. Pitt/BGIS) |
Established regional centres in the north, south and eastern corridors of Barbados will be in for a major transformation, as government presses ahead with plans to bring more services to the people.
Prime Minister Freundel Stuart made this disclosure last Saturday, during the official launch of the spanking $20 million Lanterns Mall at Hastings, Christ Church.
Akin to the projects on the south coast and Bridgetown, he said mixed development with the requisite facilities, would be encouraged in areas such as Speightstown, Holetown, Oistins, Six Cross Roads, Warrens and Wildey.????
Additionally, the Prime Minister hinted at developments in other local districts such as Eagle Hall, Worthing and St. Martins, which would see the establishment of neighbourhood-oriented shops, offices and community facilities.
In lauding the principals of Lanterns for investing in Barbados during the current economic recession, Mr. Stuart said: "You at Windsor Plaza Limited have chosen to invest your way out of the recession.?? You have spotted a niche in the market place and injected a substantial amount – in excess of $20 million of capital, I have been told, to create a high-end retail mall and small kiosk marketplace.?? In so doing, you have helped to diversify the existing tourism product in this area by using modern merchandising methods, improving services and raising standards."
He further stated: "I, therefore, commend the company for the demonstration of its confidence in Barbados.?? You did not search for excuses for doing nothing.?? You did not waste time looking for the elusive silver bullet or that magician to get us out of the recession.?? On the contrary, you analysed the situation and took positive action."