Revamp city centre to reflect vibrant PE
ON Friday, I was in the city centre and, not having been there for some time, decided to walk around. I remember this area going back to the 1960s and have watched its changing image over the years.
Firstly, I took time out to visit the upgraded Campanile and must congratulate the NMB development organisation on a splendid upgrade. Despite the lift not working, I climbed up to the top, all 270-odd steps, and enjoyed the great view of Port Elizabeth from all four sides. We should be proud of this upgrade and have it on all visitors’ agendas.
The upgrade of the Feather Market Hall, the old Tramways building, the Donkin Reserve, the Little Theatre building and the Donkin Hill buildings show what we can do in this city to restore it.
However, the state of some of the buildings in Central leaves a lot to be desired.
What are we doing with the old Post Office building? It is, despite the repairs to the roof, derelict.
The library, a wonderful example of Victorian architecture both outside and inside, needs to be repaired.
What is the municipality doing about this? With the intake of students in the city centre for accommodation, the library would be a wonderful venue for them to do research and study.
The main street is without doubt an unmitigated disaster! The clutter of the informal market facilities really needs to be removed and relocated. The road should be reverted back to a two-way system with room for parking on both sides and well-lit pavements and the police walking the streets.
Buildings that look almost derelict need to be renovated or demolished and rebuilt to entice businesses back, which would bring employees and citizens to this area. Retail businesses are leaving at the moment. The municipality needs to ensure that the facades and shops adhere to a standard that is attractive and not repeat the situation we see in North End!
Is the building on the corner of the main street and St Mary’s Church used? It looks extremely shabby. Why not demolish it and show the church as a true cathedral church, not hidden behind an office block?
The open area in front of the City Hall could be made more attractive with lawns, beds of flowers and shrubs, with more facilities for people to sit down.
The city centre smacks of neglect and once again needs a redesign that is safe, attractive and sustainable for the citizens of this city to come back and enjoy.
Visitors should leave Port Elizabeth with an image which reflects a safe, clean, well-managed and maintained city centre with which to experience its history and be confident in its future.
PA Glover, Port Elizabeth