- Contemplates investment project
The Ministry of Urban Development and Housing is set to submit a Cabinet paper seeking approval for the proposed mixed development project for the Ehelepola Walawwa in Kandy.
As learnt by The Sunday Morning, despite its historical significance and attachment to the Bogambara Prison post-Sri Lanka’s independence, the fate of the Ehelepola Walawwa now hinges on the response of the Sri Dalada Maligawa.
As per the Kandy City Development Plan, the Urban Development Authority (UDA) has jurisdiction over the Ehelepola Walawwa. Approximately six months ago, the Ministry of Urban Development and Housing proposed a transfer of custody to the Sri Dalada Maligawa.
However, complications arose when the Dalada Maligawa failed to provide a clear answer regarding the repayment of the Rs. 147 million spent on the property’s development.
Urban Development Minister Prasanna Ranatunga has now declared that if the Sri Dalada Maligawa does not settle this sum, the property may be repurposed for an undisclosed investment project.
While the specific details remain undisclosed, the Minister has underscored the importance of preserving the antiquity of the Ehelepola Walawwa.
The Minister has proposed the use of Ministry of Trade-owned land for a mixed-use development or housing project targeting the middle class.
A joint Cabinet paper, collaboratively formulated by both ministries, is expected to be presented to obtain official approval for this venture.
Moreover, discussions on various infrastructural developments, including the establishment of a walking lane in the Attanagalla constituency, the creation of a roundabout in front of Nittambuwa Sanghabodhi Vidyalaya, measures to alleviate road congestion in Nittambuwa town, and the enhancement of side roads, have been deliberated.
Recommendations have been made to submit these proposed development initiatives to the Attanagalla Regional Coordinating Committee for further approval.
When contacted, UDA Deputy Director General of Real Estate and Land Management E.A.C. Priyashantha informed The Sunday Morning that the authority had not been officially informed about the project yet. He stated: “The ministry has not forwarded this to the UDA yet.”