JEDDAH: Local residents and tourists visiting Jeddah beaches are bothered by the growing number of obstacles around the leisure areas, and are also wondering why their beach visits are being made difficult by a number of ongoing projects.
There are several governmental, municipal and private projects currently under way in the Jeddah Corniche. The projects have caused the public, who prefer to spend a day or weekends at beaches, a lot of difficulties including blocking of several roads and entrances to some beaches.
Arab News asked some officials why these projects were undertaken inconveniencing the public. They replied that the new projects were needed to develop the Corniche and give it a better look while also improving the level of hygiene in these areas.
The quality of the infrastructure in the Corniche is deteriorating and hygiene is poor. Utilities are scarce and many of them in poor condition. Safety of the visitors is another concern. Parking facilities are insufficient, traffic and pedestrian movement also needs to be regulated, officials said.
Green surfaces, sitting areas, open areas and amusement facilities also need to be repaired and maintained. Many sculptures at public places are in ruins. Some areas are infested with rodents and harmful insects, they added.
The current projects cover three areas in the Corniche. And the officials believe that once the three phases of the project are completed then the Corniche would have the much-needed face-lift.
The first part begins from the Border Guard Command at the entrance of the Northern Corniche from the southern side, to the Nourus Square in the north. The area has been walled since May and will continue for 18 months.
It’ll include several green surfaces, playing area for children, spots to watch the rhythmic lapping of the waves in the sea and fishing locations. There will also be kiosks, toilets, gift shops and small restaurants in addition to sculptures and walkways in this area.
The second part of the project extends from the Al-Mukhtar Street to Sari Street in the north and will have commercial shops, villas, hotels, amusement areas walkways and sculptures.
The third part of the project covers the area beginning from Sari Street to the Nourus Square and includes car parks apart from villas, restaurants, amusement areas and walkways.
