Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced that the Fijian Government is in the process of finalizing a policy designed to protect public parks from encroachment by private development. This announcement addresses mounting concerns about the fate of open spaces in urban areas amid increasing land development pressures.
Rabuka emphasized, “We do not have a policy yet,” highlighting the necessity of stepping back from prior development plans that have, in the past, resulted in the reduction of public green spaces. He confirmed that no projects will proceed until a formal policy is established through discussions with municipalities and stakeholders, including landowners.
This statement follows comments from Minister for Sugar Charan Jeath Singh regarding the recent implications of park development in Fiji. Singh referred to the controversial Shirley Park development in Lautoka, which faced strong opposition from the community. He assured residents that under the current Coalition Government, Shirley Park will be preserved for public enjoyment. Singh also mentioned the loss of other parks, such as Jaycees Park in Labasa due to development pressures but expressed optimism that future policies will focus more on the conservation of open spaces.
The issue of park development has sparked significant concern within the community, as local residents feel a deep connection to these public areas, which are crucial for recreation and social interaction. The concerns raised by the Lautoka Residents and Ratepayers Association, particularly regarding proposed developments at Coronation Park, underscore the importance of green spaces for community well-being.
In line with these discussions, the Government is committed to sustainable urban development. The Viti Levu Master Plan showcases this commitment by focusing on maintaining and enhancing urban parks like Ratu Sukuna Park in Suva. This initiative aims to achieve a balance between urban growth and the preservation of valuable green areas, promoting both development and environmental protection.
As the dialogues continue, there exists a hopeful perspective regarding the future of urban parks in Fiji. The collaboration between government officials and community members highlights a shared commitment to preserving these beloved spaces for future generations, aiming to create environments where communities can thrive together.