Parliamentary representative for the Roseau South constituency, Chekira Lockhart Hypolite has given the Newtown community the assurance that the old Roseau Boys’ School which is located almost opposite the Newtown Playing Field is here to stay.
Recently, president of the Harlem Sports and Community Club, Don Leogal indicated that the building, which has served as the Harlem Sports and Community Club, clubhouse for over 20 years would be demolished to make way for a developmental project.
However, Hypolite, has refuted these claims and said that the Dominica Labour Party (DLP) government has no plans to demolish the existing structure. She went on to say that the refurbishment of the said building was further articulated in the party’s manifesto which was launched ahead of the December 2019 General Elections.
According to the Roseau South MP, she will do all within her powers to ensure the survival of the building which has been used for a number of activities by the wider Newtown community.
“As the parliamentary representative of this great Roseau South Constituency I shall do all within my powers to ensure that this UNESCO heritage building, a symbol of pride and an institution of superlative and educational significance will be professionally restored to its progressive developmental use and its architectural integrity shall fully be preserved.
“It is not me nor the government neither is it any other entity nor a grouping of entities, ad hoc, sporadic or well intended, ill will or otherwise, that will finally determine the development of the long term course of my people,” the parliamentary representative said as she attempted to quell the growing anxiety among the many sporting enthusiasts and other well-wishers.
She added, “The Newtown community center shall not be sold, neither shall it be demolished and the rumor mill must seize from perpetuating such falsehood. The building was not leased or sold to any private developer and the government has no intent on doing so.
“I shall work with the community and this government to restore this facility to its former greatness. This is a new era and in the coming time, I shall be engaging the Harlem community.
The building in question was severely damaged by the passage of Hurricane Maria in September 2017. It suffered further damages when a nearby fire gutted portions of what was left of the roof after the hurricane.