Preserve our precious heritage buildings

Dear Mr. Editor,

Guyana was once a country which holds beautiful buildings reminiscent of its rich historical heritage. Many of those structures are either abandoned or destroyed. Editor, I would like to make a case for the authorities and citizens to work hand-in-hand to preserve this integral part of culture. Allow me to take our readers down memory lane, where there once stood Saint Barnabus Church at the corner of Regent and Orange Walk.

That church had incredible architectural designs; the world loved to see it. But you know what, sir? The church probably needs funds so they sold the building to an investor who broke it down flat. It is now a parking lot. But Mr. Editor, I believe, that President Jagan or Burnham would have bought that church on behalf of the country.

The business transaction would have attracted above expected pricing and the taxes to the Supreme Court would be paid by both parties. I hope that was done in the initial transaction. And if it was made into a heritage site, it should have been protected and used as a tourist spot for visitors. And whatever funds are made for visiting this magnificent building could be used for maintenance for said building. What has done, cannot be undone.

Mr. Editor, could we motivate the authorities never to let such a transaction repeat itself? There are sites all over the world that people look forward to seeing. The only places, I can think of are St. George’s Cathedral and the City Hall which has been wisely rebuilt in its original form. Kudos to the contractors!

But there are many more places we can look at; the military cemetery in Eve Leary, a vital piece of land is wasted opposite the Bourda Market in Regent Street, formerly a burial ground for the Scottish people. Records have shown, the last funeral held there was over 130 years ago. And they said no Guyanese was ever buried there.

It is 1500 square foot of land, could we utilise for needed space in Georgetown, such as vendor’s arcade/mall, parking for vehicles on Regent Street to help beautify the city. This was discussed with Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo at his residence, when he was president more than 17 years ago by the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce for which I was present.

Mr. Jagdeo agreed but informed us that the matter is stopped in court by a staff of Stabroek News. That was more than 17 years ago; any meaningful government would have got that matter settled through the courts, so Guyana could move forward.