The Georgetown Mayor and City Council’s lack of finances continues to delay its efforts to restore City Hall to its former glory despite it securing the support of the European Union (EU).
Town Clerk Royston King told Stabroek News that after securing support from the EU last year for restoration works, two notices were issued inviting tenders but it is unclear what happened afterward. He added that he would have to be updated by the EU on the status of its support.
Nevertheless, King pointed out that the council has started making preparations to carry out restoration works in the near future. “Our engineers are now looking at this building but we want to complete other projects that is ongoing before we begin work here,” King explained.
Currently, the council is carrying out works on the Kitty Market, the Albouystown Health Centre and several bridges across the city.
King stated that the council is equipped with competent engineers to carry out the work but “what we don’t have is the finances and we are looking at it.” He added that if the city undertakes the rehabilitation, it would have to be done in sections. “If we don’t start, the whole building might collapse. We can’t afford to wait for funding,” he, however, added.
The city administration has done minor remedial works on the building. Repairs were conducted on the corridor and internal stairs leading to the Council Chamber.
However, the historic building continues to deteriorate.
Due to the deterioration, access to the top flat of the three storey building has been restricted.
