Demonstrators urge Government to protect green space for future generations
Residents lined the streets outside Southlands National Park today, voicing their love for the woodlands and their concerns over proposed development plans.
The campaign to protect the greenspace is being led by 25-year-old Bermudian Nekorrah Raynor, who on Thursday presented Government with a petition carrying more than 5,500 signatures.
Campaigners are demanding an immediate halt to plans that include building a café and car park on the southern coastal side of the park and installing a zipline through the northern woodlands. They are also calling for Southlands to be upgraded to a Nature Reserve, a move they describe as both an environmental and moral obligation to future generations.
More than 75 residents gathered outside the park today, carrying placards and banners in support of the cause.
“I feel so appreciative that so many people have come out to support the initiative, the woodlands – to show the Government, to show the administration, and to show the island that this is what we stand for, this is what we love, and that the environment is the most important thing to us all,” Nekorrah said.
Bermuda Broadcasting observed a steady stream of supporters throughout the morning, including local environmentalists and members of the Opposition One Bermuda Alliance.
Placards included messages such as: “Save Our Southlands,” “Keep Bermuda Green,” and “Save Nature for Our Children.”
The rally is set to conclude at 2 pm today.
