Watooka House on Thursday reopened its doors to the public after several months of extensive rehabilitation and upgrades costing some $50 million.
According to a Department of Public Information (DPI) report, the Watooka Complex, which has been in existence since the commencement of bauxite mining in Linden, is located in the small community of Watooka, on the Mackenzie shore of the Demerara River.
Today, the complex is a renowned tourist hotspot in the mining town and has hosted dignitaries from all over the world.
The colonial-style complex boasts a guest house, a newly refurbished swimming pool, manicured lawns, a basketball court, a tennis court and a new deck overseeing the Demerara River. Also included in the upgrades was an overhaul of the establishment’s suites and kitchen, extension of the restaurant and the installation of a Wi-Fi system.
In attendance at the ribbon-cutting ceremony and grand reopening were Minster of Business, Haimraj Rajkumar; Minister within the Ministry of Communities Annette Ferguson; Minister within the Ministry of Agriculture with responsibility for Rural Affairs Valerie Adams-Yearwood; and Linden Mayor, Waneka Arindell.
As the minister responsible for the tourism industry in Guyana, Rajkumar mentioned some of the history that surrounds the landmark complex. The guest house was built in the 1940s and served as a club for the expatriates who were employed with the Demerara Bauxite Company and the colonial building was later transformed into a guest house.
The Business Minister also noted the Watooka House’s capacity for growth and tourism and the pivotal role the newly refurbished complex will play in Linden’s development.
Mayor Arindell, in her remarks, said that the township of Linden was grateful for the upgrades the complex has seen as it will help to transform Linden. “Linden is now in the right place [to see] magnificent changes being made.” She added that Watooka House is an integral part of Linden history and its story must be told.
Watooka House hosts guest, birthdays, weddings, parties and is a famous recreational spot for both Lindeners and out-of-region visitors, the report added.
