The Suva City Council is optimistic about reopening Albert Park at the end of this month as rehabilitation work continues on the $16 million facility.

Suva and Lami special administrator Isikeli Tikoduadua said staff were working to finish work by the targeted date.

He said the ground needed some work including weed infestation.

“The grass on Albert Park is a special grass. Those who have used the facility know this. We have had to deal with a weed attack,” he said.

“Right now we are trying to get rid of this grass.

“We need to do this and ensure that we do not damage the existing turf.”

Mr Tikoduadua said they wanted to have the facility in top shape so it can be used again by the people of Suva.

Albert Park, after its facelift in 2017, had become a place for people to play various sports, hold events and even a meeting place.

The ground was closed in December for maintenance.

Toorak resident Praveen Kumar said for him and his group of friends, Albert Park was a meeting place for outdoor activities, which was beneficial to their health.

Joseph Kolinisau, of Caubati, Nasinu, said ratepayers’ money was used to maintain the ground and the SCC should be able to have a timely maintenance plan so that people could use the park regularly for what it was meant for.

Edited by Caroline Ratucadra

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