Modern heritage just as important

THE Limegrove Lifestyle Centre is being hailed as a true example of modern heritage tourism.

This is the word of Minister of Tourism, and International Transport, Richard Sealy, who indicated that he does not subscribe to the view that a country’s heritage has to be “historic or old”.

Speaking at the launch of the Barbados Heritage In Pictures book, at the Cave Hill Campus, Mount Restaurant, on Tuesday, Sealy said while he understands and appreciates the meaning of the word heritage, “the same way that we can receive heritage, we have to create it for future generations”.

“Therefore, to my mind, the Limegrove Lifestyle Centre has just as much right to be in this book as does the Drax Hall Plantation House, because we are now creating heritage for others to come. Let’s face it... Holetown has certainly gotten a new lease on life, thanks to the Limegrove Lifestyle Centre – that was fairly controversial,” he said.

“A lot of folks didn’t see the value in offering concessions for a shopping centre. But the truth is, it is a legitimate magnate for visitors to come to this country. It is a part of our tourism offerings and in itself has had an impact on one of the first Barbados settlements,” Sealy added.

The Tourism Minister also pointed to the St. James-based Petrea Gardens, which was created by landscaper, Marcus Beckles, as an “amazing” example of modern heritage.

“As I said before, heritage doesn’t have to be old and ancient and antique. There is something called modern heritage, and we have a responsibility to create heritage,” he said.

Sealy also alluded to the fact that the inscription from UNESCO of historic Bridgetown and its Garrison has in many respects placed Barbados’ heritage tourism under the microscope, causing prospective visitors to look at the island differently.

However, the Minister said that it is only “natural” that these visitors would also want to see other elements of the country’s heritage when they come.

On that note, Sealy said projects to highlight historical sites across the island should be embraced and encouraged to push that legitimate niche of the tourism industry.

“In essence, we are constantly talking about moving away from the traditional sun, sea and sand approach to tourism, and developing other niches.

“Well, heritage tourism is a legitimate niche, and it is one which Barbados is a natural for,” he said.

The Minister also encouraged Barbadians to embrace and record their country’s hidden treasures. (AH)