The massive, family-owned West Central Mall at Leonora, West Coast Demerara, opened on Friday with the promise of contributing significantly to the further development of Region Three (Essequibo Islands -,West Demerara).
The mall is a venture pursued by the Albert family. It was constructed in the last two and a half years.
Developer and Albert family patriarch, Heimraj Albert told Friday’s opening ceremony that he recognised Region Three, the place he grew up, was expanding rapidly. Even with this expansion, he believed there were not enough family-oriented entertainment spots there.
So the idea of a mall, replete with numerous attractions, was born.
Given the interest so far in the project, Albert is convinced that this was a worthwhile venture for the family. He also believes the mall will contribute significantly to the transformation of Region Three.
“I am honoured to contribute to the development and future growth of not only this region but Guyana as a whole,” the elder Albert said.
His daughter, Bhabita, said the family decided on the attractions in the mall. Some of those attractions include the Atlantis fine dining restaurant, a children’s play park, the Ace Club and Dolby movie theatres.
There are also numerous stores with items to sell and much-needed services for the ‘West Side.’
Meanwhile, Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo opined that this venture was pursued because the government has been creating an enabling, pro-private sector environment.
“We believe that one of the things that the government should do to get investors to make these sorts of investments is to try to minimise the risks they face.
“And you can only do that through a clear vision and policies that support that vision that are friendly to investments and therefore job creation,” Dr. Jagdeo said.
He too believed that there is substantial economic transformation gripping region three and believes that this new mall is a timely investment.
The West Central Mall will be open to the public from Saturday.
Already, 3 malls within short traveling distant of each other. Next, will be the Mall in Berbice/Corentyne.
Who will take this chance ? Malls are going out of business in the US for lack of human ” traffic “. Everyone now, is staying at home and shopping on line- it’s easy and less costly traveling into Malls.
Residents need a car, public mini bus transportation to get to mall on congested roads full of speeding, drunks
and accidents. Businesses will need to sell a lot just to afford RENT, WAGES ETC., ELECTRICTY, WATER, INSURANCE. Just my thoughts… people.