Push for new investments; Bahrain sets aside vast plots of land for projects

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HUGE open spaces in the south of Bahrain have been earmarked for major development.

Private developers are being encouraged to invest in new projects across the Southern Governorate, revealed Works, Municipalities Affairs and Urban Planning Minister Essam Khalaf yesterday.

He said vast plots of government-owned land were available, as he attended the first meeting of the newly-elected Southern Municipal Council.

“Investments in Bahrain, in particular the Southern area which has the highest number of available government plots, is a priority,” he said.

“Through co-operation with the newly-elected council, we will encourage innovative ideas.

“There is a special investment department at the ministry and it will work side-by-side with councillors to enable a faster approach to projects tabled by investors.

“Investments approved by councillors will be supported.”

Bader Al Tamimi, beginning his second term in office, was elected chairman of the council yesterday with eight out of 10 votes, seeing off a challenge from Mallalah Shaheen.

Abdullatif Mohammed was elected vice-chairman unopposed.

“I want to see new investments, like Universal Studios and Bollywood City – besides other major family investment projects,” said Mr Al Tamimi.

“But I think industries are easier to attract, as well as being profitable.

“We will work with GCC and international investors.

“We already have an investor who built accommodation for 2,000 expatriate labourers working in industrial projects or private security services.

“A similar project for more workers is on the way, in the Lahsia area near Alba.

“This will certainly reduce problems associated with bachelor labourers in residential areas.”

Meanwhile, Mr Mohammed singled out infrastructure development as a priority.

“My role will be providing technical support and following up infrastructure development, as the chairman focuses on investment opportunities,” he said.

“Can we achieve investment targets agreed with the government during our first meeting?

“I think so, but all of the council’s 10 members need to work as a unit – each in his or her speciality – so we move forward with steady steps.

“It is a tough task and everyone should be up to the challenge.”

The council will hold its next meeting on January 9.

mohammed@gdn.com.bh

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