The Sukuna Park redevelopment project budget was reduced to $7 million after the Suva City Council removed the two-level cafeteria, which was part of the initial $13 million funding by the previous administration in 2020.
While responding to a question asked by Independent Member of Parliament Ioane Naivalurua about the updated status of Sukuna Park, Minister for Housing and Local Government Maciu Nalumisa says $500,000 was allocated mainly for landscaping purposes.
Nalumisa says the park was closed by the SCC toward the end of 2021 and was put aside to allow for demolition and rehabilitation works.
He says the objective is to improve the landscape, provide a better podium for hosting events, increase foot traffic at the park, enhance lighting structures, and introduce modern park furniture.
The Minister for Local Government says this development will increase seating space, improve walkways, and make the park smart through digital platforms such as charging ports and Wi-Fi.
The Minister for Local Government states that a consultant was initially engaged by the Suva City Council to design the master plan.
Insert: Maciu on Sukuna Park IB 5th Aug
He also highlighted in the first quarter of 2023, the council engaged a new consultant to revise the rehabilitation master plan to reflect a modern Suva City Smart Park and a new consultancy team was engaged and construction began in June 2023.
He says the project was completed last month, but the contract is currently addressing defects identified during the defects liability period.
He added that they hope to open the Sukuna Park redevelopment project this month after completing the defect corrections identified by the consultant.
Nalumisa says the redevelopment of Sukuna Park represents a significant investment in the future of Suva with a smart city concept and the provision of disabled facilities ensures inclusivity in urban development.
He adds that the council has also prioritised security by installing CCTV cameras, and fencing, and providing security personnel to prevent criminal activities in the area.
Independent Member Premila Kumar also asked Nalumisa why the previous administration's structure, including the two-level cafeteria, was removed.
Nalumisa explained that removing the two-level cafeteria allows people to move freely and enjoy the space and also the initial cost was $13 million, but by removing the cafeteria, the cost was reduced to $7 million.
