On Monday 26th July 2021, an online “Public Consultation” was held by the Port of Spain City Corporation with residents of the environs and stakeholders to discuss the so-called revitalization of Nelson Mandela Park, formerly known as King George V Park, located in St. Clair, Port of Spain. The main topic for discussion was the intention to replace a significant portion of the natural grass turf (approx 220 x 330 ft) with 4G Astro turf, a synthetic plastic surface. Only a fraction of natural grass turf will be retained as well as the perimeter where the trees are located.  This will result in the loss of another green space in the City and conversion of the Park into a sporting facility.  The proposal and its implications include:

• Public Private Partnership expenditure approaching $20 million TT.   
• Control of the Park to be handed over to preferred Private Partner on a long term lease.
• Access to facility by online booking system.
• Increased tier of fees to cover usage and maintenance costs. .
• Astro turf, an artificial surface, is expensive to lay down, maintain and rejuvenate every few years. 
• Water absorption is less than natural grass turf and could lead to excess runoff rainwater worsening current flooding.
• Less water absorption to the underlying aquifer system means less water supply for WASA to provide to the City of Port of Spain  
• Bacteria and mould thrive on astro turf. Biocides used as part of the maintenance and cleaning processes will cause chemical contamination of groundwater supply.
• Astro turf particles are known to be carcinogenic.
• Astro turf is associated with a 50% increased incidence of sporting injuries to the lower limb. More mature users may not tolerate playing on astro turf.
• Natural grass turf absorbs heat and carbon dioxide, unlike artificial turf which generates heat, contributing to global warming.
• Escalating levels of traffic congestion, noise, light pollution and  garbage will add to adverse environmental impact. 
• Increasing crime levels likely for users of the Park and the wider community.
• People without private green spaces value natural environments for rejuvenation, sports and recreation which are essential for mental and psychosocial wellbeing
• Preservation of remaining natural green spaces is vital for community pride and joy in our natural surroundings 
• Historical significance of the Park as a sacred burial ground and its use for religious ceremonial and cultural occasions. 
• We are an outdoor people with a unique culture that treasures the beauty of our tropical island that has a diversity of flora and fauna.
• We are losing the natural balance between man and nature. 
• THIS PROPOSAL AND THE ACCOMPANYING LOSS OF GREEN SPACE WILL AFFECT ALL OF US.  LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD!

Thank you for signing the petition. To make sure your voice is heard please also follow the directive as publicized in the newspapers:
"The public is invited to submit comments or feedback up until August 1 at 11.59 p.m. via Facebook through the Port of Spain City Corporation page or via e-mail poscitycorporation@gmail.com"

poscitycorporation@gmail.com