Paramount Chiefs visit W/R theatre complex

Fijai (W/R), March 12, GNA- Due to delays in releasing funds for the construction of the Western Regional Theatre Complex, its initial estimated cost has increased from 10 billion cedis to 12 billion cedis. Mr. Kojo Yankah, Managing Director of Westland Contractors, contractors of the project, announced this when three paramount chiefs visited the project site to acquaint themselves with the progress of work at Fijai during the weekend.

The paramount chiefs were Nana Kobina Nketsia V, Omanhene of Esikadu, Nana Kweku Binnah III, Omanhene of Shama and Nana Baidoe Bonsu XV, Omanhene of Ahanta.

Mr. Yankah said work on the project has resumed again after a break following the release of 2.5 billion cedis last year. He said the 2007 budget has also allocated another 2.5 billion cedis for the project, and expressed the hope that when the money is released early the job would be completed by 2008.

Mr. Yankah said the first phase of the project had been completed, but more work needs to be done to put the building in proper shape. He said the complex would contain offices, an auditorium and a show room fitted with air conditioners.

Mr Yankah said initially the auditorium was designed to have a seating capacity of 300, but had been expanded to accommodate 3,000 people.

Nana Nketsia said the Chiefs were happy with the work so far done on the complex, but work must be speeded up since "there is still a lot that needs to be done".

He said the Centre for National Culture was collaborating with consultants and contractors to ensure a high standard of work. Nana Nketsia appealed to government to ensure that funds were made available for the early completion of the project.