Revival of Bridgetown: Business Leaders Push for Vibrant Urban Transformation

Business leaders have urged the revival of Bridgetown as a vibrant centre of commerce and residential vitality.

Their intention was revealed during the Chamber of Commerce’s 198th celebratory event, its annual general meeting and luncheon.

The leaders agreed that Bridgetown’s revival transcends mere economic considerations, with a focus on the area’s transformation into a “lived city”.

Chamber president James Clarke made a call for rejuvenation in light of declining foot traffic and the exodus of businesses to more accessible areas.

“Bridgetown has long been suffering from declining foot traffic as businesses have relocated to more car-accessible areas, often closer to residential neighbourhoods,” he said during his speech.

He said the chamber’s Bridgetown Revitalisation Committee is keen to engage on initiatives to return Bridgetown to a bustling centre—not just for commerce, but for social, cultural, and residential purposes.

“The vision is to create a vibrant urban area that attracts both locals and tourists, fostering a sense of community and pride,” he said.

Clarke touted the ongoing Pierhead project as a modern, multi-purpose urban revitalisation effort.

“[It] challenges us to rethink how we view urban areas and update them to be more welcoming, accessible, safe, and vibrant places to live, play, and work. This project includes the development of new public spaces, improved infrastructure, and facilities that can host various cultural and recreational activities,” Clarke said, adding that such initiatives can rejuvenate the urban environment and create a lively, attractive cityscape.

A meeting held earlier this year to address concerns about the state of the capital ahead of major events such as the T20 Cricket World Cup, reached a consensus on ensuring that the city is well-maintained, clean, and prepared to welcome visitors from around the world, he said.

The Ministry of Health, Sanitation Service Authority, National Conservation Commission, Ministry of Transport and Works, and the Government Electrical Engineering Department were represented at the meeting.

Clarke added: “By facilitating partnerships between local and international entities, we aim to help create a thriving business environment that benefits all stakeholders.

“The influx of tourists and cricket enthusiasts is expected to inject a significant boost into the economy, benefiting various sectors including hospitality, tourism, transportation, and retail,” he said of the impact of the next month’s World Cup. He added that The City’s infrastructure is also undergoing improvements in preparation for the event, with renovations and upgrades enhancing The City’s overall appeal.

The chamber of commerce president forecasted an increase in pedestrian traffic with the potential to stimulate the local economy by boosting patronage of shops, restaurants, and attractions, also providing a unique opportunity to showcase the capital city.

Chairman of the World Cup’s national organising

committee, Ambassador Noel Lynch was also on board with this thought train. He highlighted the event’s pivotal

role in catalysing Bridgetown’s resurgence and economic elevation.

“The actual operations of the event have truly served as that catalyst for the revitalisation of Bridgetown and that upliftment of the economy of which we have spoken,” Lynch affirmed.

He acknowledged the work that has been done so far to upgrade the space such as repaving and other necessary beautification efforts.

But, like Clarke, he acknowledged that “Bridgetown doesn’t come alive for commerce unless it once again becomes a lived city.”

“No matter how much the government does to revitalise The City to make it truly work commercially, people must once again live in The City. Residential accommodation needs to be developed all over Bridgetown. Buildings with strict building codes and specific ordinances as it relates to parking and the upkeep and maintenance of the buildings.”

Lynch charged that Bridgetown must once again cater to the needs of all its residents and commercial players.

“Walking and biking must become part and parcel of the experience. Bring forward the residential plans for the ‘new’ Bridgetown,” he urged, adding he hopes that the government will assist in creating the enabling environment for such an investment.

(SM)