Bahrain Plans to Privatize Southern Governorate Parks to Boost Revenue and Improve Services

TDT | Manama

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A push to hand over the running of large parks and walkways in the Southern Governorate to private investors has been approved by the municipal council. The proposal, tabled by councillor Ali AbdulHamid Al Shaikh, was endorsed at the council’s Wednesday meeting.

Under the plan, private firms would take responsibility for the upkeep, security, and day-to-day running of these public spaces, lifting the financial strain from the government. In return, investors would gain the right to develop the parks for commercial purposes, including advertising and other business ventures, generating income for both the municipality and the investors.

The council’s study argued that the plan would be beneficial to all parties involved. The municipality would receive additional revenue through fees paid by investors, while the public would enjoy better-maintained facilities. Private firms, meanwhile, would be able to profit by improving and managing these spaces.

The proposal fits with ongoing efforts by the Ministry of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture to upgrade parks and walkways across the kingdom, ensuring they meet contemporary expectations and serve the needs of the public. These initiatives are part of Bahrain’s long-term development plans and the government’s strategy to improve public amenities.

The council’s committee reviewed the proposal during its 11th meeting and determined it complied with existing laws. Article 19 of the Municipalities Law (Decree No. 35 of 2001) empowers municipal councils to propose and prioritise local projects involving public services, including parks. The plan also follows Article 13 of the executive regulations, which focuses on the creation and improvement of public parks, beautification of spaces, and protection of municipal properties.

The committee highlighted that private investment in parks would reduce the financial burden on the Ministry of Works, Municipalities Affairs, and Urban Planning. It would also create new opportunities for businesses and provide better services for the public.

The council unanimously agreed to recommend that the Minister of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture engage with the relevant authorities to explore how the plan can be implemented.