*** ----> Park in Al Mahooz Reopens After Renovation | THE DAILY TRIBUNE | KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN

Park in Al Mahooz Reopens After Renovation

In a first-of-its-kind initiative, ‘A Better Life’ Association, headed by MP Ahmed Sabah Al Saloum, has announced the opening of `Ayn Umm ash Sh`um Park in Al Mahooz, tomorrow, Wednesday.

The park, which was handed over to the association under a partnership agreement with the Capital Municipality and the Ministry of Municipalities and Agriculture, is being made open for the public after months of renovation.

MP Al Saloum emphasised the association's commitment to reviving the swimming pool, highlighting its cultural significance and historical legacy deeply ingrained in the community's memory, both in Al Mahooz and Bahrain as a whole.

The MP stressed the importance of collaboration between government entities and civil society organisations. He explained that the handover of the park's administration and maintenance falls under the framework of activating community partnerships. Al Saloum highlighted that one of the core goals of the association is to support economic and social projects aimed at improving the local environment and family life in coordination with relevant authorities.

He underscored that the association's first initiative was signing a three-year partnership agreement with the Capital Municipality, which granted them the management and operation of Ain Um Sha'oom Park in Al Mahooz. The agreement also includes the development of sports fields to provide recreational and athletic opportunities for park visitors.

Al Saloum further stated, "We believe in our role in improving the lives of the community. We expressed our desire to manage and operate the park and all its facilities, including the swimming pools. We conducted a comprehensive assessment of its condition and carried out necessary maintenance work, making it ready for today's opening." He also mentioned that children played a role in the renovation process, having their own dedicated space to encourage their participation in physical activities that foster teamwork and develop essential social skills.

The MP highlighted that the park will serve as a safe haven for the youth in the area, offering a family-friendly atmosphere that reflects Bahraini social values.

It's worth noting that the park will feature various activities, including swimming and physical exercise, as well as spaces for relaxation and recreation for all ages. Al Saloum noted that the rapid urban development and shrinking land areas in residential neighbourhoods necessitate a collective effort from both executive bodies and civil society organisations to find solutions for children and youth, enabling them to pursue their athletic hobbies.

Al Saloum further explained that the park's relatively large size, spanning 5,319 square meters, will allow the association to maximize its utilisation, enhancing its benefits. It will also provide an ideal opportunity for residents to organise community events. The park seamlessly blends traditional architectural elements with modern design and organization, offering green spaces, designated areas for swimming and physical activities.