Peduase Lodge must not be left to fall apart - Aliu

Aburi (E/R), Sept. 28, GNA - Vice President Aliu Mahama has directed the Ministry of Works and Housing to assess the condition of the Peduase Lodge Presidential Retreat for rehabilitation.

He said it was not prudent to leave such a valuable national asset to deteriorate, while it could be restored as a guesthouse for high-ranking guests of the State, instead of accommodating them in hotels.

The Vice President was speaking when he inspected the condition of the Lodge built in 1962, by Dr Kwame Nkrumah.

The Lodge in a serene environment on the Akuapem Ridge, has eight bedrooms suitable for housing the President, his family and four guests.

It also has sporting and leisure facilities and a grassed lounge for hosting receptions and other out-door activities.

Vice President Mahama acknowledged that funds required for the rehabilitation may be high, but said that should not deter the State from maintaining its asset because the project could be tackled in phases.

A former Works and Housing Minister, Mr Kwamena Bartels, estimated the cost of the project at seven billion cedis when he inspected it about two years ago.

Mr Salifu Grushie, a Senior Supervisor at the Lodge, who conducted the Vice President around, said previous Heads of State, made good use of the facility and ensured its maintenance.

However, the Lodge was virtually abandoned after the overthrow of President Hilla Limann in 1982.

The Vice President visited the Lodge on his way from Amanokrom, where he attended the Odwira festival as the Guest of Honour.