Residents of Les Coteaux now have a modern community facility to call their own.
On Monday, the $3 million renovated Les Coteaux Community Facility was recommissioned.
According to the Division of Community Development, Youth Development, and Sport, the newly-refurbished Les Coteaux Community Centre is set to usher in a new era of comfort, access, and opportunity for all in the area.
President of the Les Coteaux Village Council, Harvey Craig, expressed pride in the delivery of the long-awaited renovated Les Coteaux Community Facility.
“What we are seeing now is, as the butterfly, a beautiful butterfly coming out of a caterpillar. So we have been given the awesome responsibility of managing this facility, and I am saying that all of you ought to be on board.”
Secretary of Community Development, Youth Development, and Sport, Joel Sampson, noted that deliberate thought was given to the design and functionality of the newly-renovated facility.
“The decision to raise the roof to improve acoustics and to add a new wing demonstrates an understanding of the diverse ways this facility will be used. You now both have a computer and a multipurpose room, so this centre can host simultaneous programmes, encouraging much more engagement and inclusion.”
Area Representative Zorisha Hackett noted upon assuming office, that the restoration of the facility was at the top of villagers’ requests. She said with the increase in societal ills and criminal activities being recorded in this district, the Les Coteaux Community Facility represents hope.
“We understand that restoring this facility was more than just aesthetics. It was about providing a lifeline. This facility, my dear residents, is therefore a symbol of what is possible when we invest in our people. It is a place where we can fight against the forces that divide us and build spaces for unity.”
Chief Secretary Farley Augustine encouraged villagers to make full use of the space and amenities.
“I want the churches to use it. I want the youth groups to be here. I want the football groups to keep their meetings here. I want you to come and sit down here and have classes. You don’t need to wait for the THA to bring the programmes. This is your community facility, and you have a responsibility to activate and to use it.”
Earlier this month, a community meeting was held to sensitise Village Council members and residents of their role in overseeing the facility.