Dear Editor,
Please refer to a letter, which appeared in your newspaper issue of Wednesday, November 5, 2025: City breached public trust principle in relation to Farnum Playfield.
In fact, I acknowledge the strong objections of Jamela Ali to the proposed agreement permitting the temporary accommodation of Mae’s Schools on Farnum Playfield. The passionate advocacy, of Jamela Ali for the preservation of this community ground as a sacrosanct public trust asset is particularly noted and shared by this Council. Farnum Playfield is indeed an invaluable open green space held in trust for the recreation and enjoyment of the citizens of Georgetown, and its sanctity must be safeguarded in perpetuity.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, education remains a high national priority for the Co-operative Republic of Guyana. The Government and this Council are acutely aware of the pressing need to expand access to quality educational facilities, particularly in densely populated residential areas such as Subryanville. It is within this context that the Council has decided to facilitate, on a strictly temporary basis, the request to utilise a portion of Farnum Playfield to accommodate the school’s operations pending the identification and development of a permanent alternative site.
This decision is not intended to legitimise any prior unauthorised construction, nor does it confer any permanent right of occupancy. The proposed agreement will include explicit provisions for:
● Immediate cessation of all activities upon expiry of the temporary period (not exceeding December 31, 2026);
● Full restoration of the site to its original condition at the occupant’s expense;
● Stringent safety and environmental compliance measures, including independent inspections; and
● Transparent public reporting on traffic management and community impact mitigation.
The Council regrets any perception of secrecy in earlier permissions and commits to greater consultation moving forward. We are also engaging the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) and other relevant agencies to ensure full regulatory compliance. Residents’ historical efforts in maintaining Farnum Playfield are deeply appreciated, and the Council will enhance its upkeep responsibilities to alleviate this burden.
While lawful alternatives exist – as you correctly identified – the acute shortage of immediate educational infrastructure in the area has necessitated this interim measure. Be assured that this arrangement does not set a precedent for the privatisation or degradation of public spaces. The Council remains steadfast in its fiduciary duty to act in the best interest of all citizens, balancing immediate societal needs with long-term preservation of our green heritage.
We truly value the vigilance of all the residents of that community and invite continued dialogue.