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Plans revealed for Apia’s new Waterfront Plan

It is a strategic boosting the wellbeing of the people and the economy of Samoa.
joyetter@samoanews.com

“We ask you to open your minds with the possibilities that can transform our existing city into an enjoyable and functional place that is well thought out and designed,” said Samoa’s Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi during the launching of the Apia’s Waterfront Plan last week. The plan is a joint initiative by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (through the Planning and Urban Management Agency) and the Samoa Tourism Authority.

During the opening the PM said that more technical assessment and detailed designs would need to be undertaken before any of these ideas take place. “These illustrations allow us to visualize how we can raise the standard of our city and entertain different ideas for the four waterfront areas.:

Tuilaepa confirmed the government has already received interest from some of its development partners to develop parts of the waterfront in accordance with the principles and concept designs provided in the plan. “With the launching of the plan, I anticipate more interest and we will continue to work with all our stakeholders in implementing this plan and to create a waterfront that is attractive safe and unique giving all who visit Apia memorable experiences,” said Tuilaepa.

At the launching it was revealed that many coastal cities around the world are looking to their waterfronts to revitalize urban centers and encourage sustainable tourism. ”There is a great opportunity for the Apia Waterfront to become a unique and distinctive place, setting it apart from other destinations in the Pacific region.: 

BACKGROUND

 The Waterfront Plan is a strategic plan that will create an attractive urban environment, boosting the wellbeing of the people and the economy of Samoa.

It will be designed to be a model for how cities and towns on island nations can build their resilience to climate change and natural disasters through careful planning and community engagement.

It will also encourage tourists to stay longer in Apia. The Waterfront Plan will guide growth and development of the waterfront area over the next ten or so years in line with the following vision: “The Apia Waterfront is an attractive destination connecting people to unique places and Samoan experiences”. 

There will be a strong focus on creating an inclusive, safe and clean waterfront for locals and visitors alike to enjoy. 

Improving the Apia Waterfront will also help to showcase Apia as one of the leading sustainable tourism destinations in the Pacific region: opening Samoa up for investment and creating more jobs and business opportunities for locals.

According to brochures provided to the media the Waterfront Plan has been achieved as a result of an extensive and dynamic community engagement process that involved people of all ages and walks of life.