New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has pledged to revitalise the economy of La Pleasure Beach and regularise businesses operating along the beachfront if elected President. He said his administration would redesign the area to meet appropriate standards while creating an enabling environment for businesses and preserving the livelihoods of thousands of people who depend on the beach for their income.
Dr Bawumia expressed concern about the recent demolition exercise at the beachfront, particularly the destruction of movable properties that, in his view, could have been removed by their owners. He described La Pleasure Beach as an important social, cultural, economic and international asset that has developed into one of Ghana’s prominent recreational destinations and has supported significant tourism and commercial activity.
He said an NPP government would work with operators to formalise their businesses and issue leases to individual operators. He also pledged to engage the owners of Laboma Beach to address their concerns, support the development of their businesses and ensure that their operations comply with applicable laws. The proposed redevelopment, he said, would also provide space for smaller businesses to operate alongside established facilities such as Labadi Beach Hotel.
Dr Bawumia further promised to tackle flooding and environmental challenges around the lagoon as part of efforts to restore and sustainably develop the area. He noted that La Pleasure Beach had hosted international events and activities associated with the Year of Return, underscoring its wider tourism and cultural significance. “I am committed to save the thousands of jobs that beach economy supports and to improve them,” he said.
