Neglected Sunyani Children’s park sparks renewed calls for redevelopment

Public pressure is growing for the rehabilitation of Sunyani Children’s Park. Many are urging the Bono Regional Minister to prioritize its redevelopment.

The park, the only one in Sunyani, is in poor condition. It is overrun by waste and has become a refuge for people with mental health issues. Lawrence Yeboah Gyan, a local journalist, has started a social media campaign for its restoration.

He recalls that in the 90s, people visited to read and borrow books. Now, it has deteriorated significantly. Gyan urges both the Regional Minister and Municipal Chief Executive to redevelop the park.

Once a lively place for recreation and learning, the park now lies abandoned. Its library is unused, and refuse covers the grounds. The area has turned into an informal shelter for vulnerable individuals.

Despite many calls over the years, no real action has been taken. Pupils from local schools have expressed their disappointment about the park's state. Godfred Frimpong from Ridge Experimental School said it looks like a dump now.

He wants authorities to redevelop it for children’s use. Valice Boahene from Police Experimental School echoed this sentiment, saying they need a place to play.

Parents are also concerned about the park's future. Osei Laar emphasized that urgent action is needed to restore its purpose. Mark Abisa reminisced about playing there as a child and called for immediate improvements.

Vincent Antwi Agyei, Municipal Chief Executive for Sunyani East, shared his plans for redevelopment. He aims to collaborate with the Sunyani Traditional Council to find a private developer. Agyei hopes that by his term's end, the park will be revitalized.