GEORGE TOWN – Penang’s historic and iconic Padang Kota Lama has been given a facelift by the state government and is expected to attract even more tourists and locals.
The waterfront, which is also known as Penang Esplanade, now has an upgraded seawall as well as a new 570-metre-long pedestrian walkway for leisure activities, allowing visitors a scenic walk along the sea.
The project, which started in 2016, was supposed to be completed earlier but suspended during the Covid-19 outbreak and its subsequent Movement Control Orders (MCO).
At the launching ceremony today, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the initiative was spearheaded by the George Town Conservation Development Corporation (GTCDC). It was based on the North Seafront Master Plan (NSMP).
“GTCDC took the positive step of conducting a comprehensive study covering the areas of history of the existence of seawall construction, heritage, coastal survey work, marine engineering and structures.
“The NSMP involves about 14 projects with a total cost of RM140 million funded by the state government, Penang Island City Council (MBPP) and Think City,” he said.
Chow, who is also the Assemblyman for Padang Kota, said the pedestrian walkway from Medan Selera Renong to the Royal Malaysian Navy Base cost RM12.9 million and was funded by MBPP.
However, the state government has provided an additional RM1.4 million to develop the Linear Garden project and public rest areas by the city council.
Work on this area is expected to begin this year.
“The project still retains its heritage values as it is under the George Town heritage zone.”
Chow added, currently several major projects are also under implementation under the NSMP, including the Cornwallis City conservation project which dignifies the conservation of Category 1 Heritage Buildings.
“There are also projects that involve upgrading pedestrian walkways on Lebuh Light as well as in the area around the North Seafront to ensure that each focus area is well connected and planned.” – The Vibes, May 13, 2022
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