Former National Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Freddie Blay, has challenged the decision to classify businesses operating along the La Beach beachfront in Accra as encroachers, arguing that the establishments have a long history in the area.
Blay said the beachfront businesses had been operating for more than 70 years, long before the construction of some major hotels in the vicinity, including the Labadi Beach Hotel.
He questioned the justification for describing the businesses as illegal occupants of the beachfront, insisting that their historical presence should be considered in discussions about the area’s development and management.
“The beachfront is not part of Labadi Beach Hotel. Businesses have been operating along the beachfront for over 70 years, even before these hotels were built. So why describe them as encroachers?” he asked.
Freddie Blay Defends La Beach Tourism Businesses
Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen programme, the former NPP chairman argued that businesses along the La Beach beachfront have gradually evolved into an important tourism, entertainment and commercial hub.
According to Blay, the area supports a vibrant local economy, particularly during festive seasons when residents, tourists and holidaymakers visit the beachfront for entertainment and leisure activities.
He maintained that the businesses should not simply be disrupted through demolition without recognising their economic contribution and the role they play in Ghana’s tourism industry.
Blay described the beachfront as a well-organised commercial environment that generates substantial revenue and provides a different tourism experience from that offered by hotels in the area.
“It has been developing into a kind of ecosystem and an economy. It’s a well-organised place, especially during the festive season. They rake in millions. It’s a whole tourism economy. It’s a different product from what the hotels offer,” he said.
La Beachfront Demolition Debate and Ghana’s Tourism Economy
The comments have drawn attention to the debate over beachfront businesses, land use, coastal management and tourism development in Accra.
The La Beach area is known for its recreational activities, food vendors, entertainment services and seasonal commercial operations, which attract visitors during weekends and festive periods.
Blay’s remarks highlight the need to consider the livelihoods of business operators and the contribution of informal and small-scale enterprises when decisions are made about beachfront redevelopment.
The broader discussion also raises questions about balancing coastal protection, lawful land use, tourism investment and the preservation of local economic activities.
Source: newsthemegh.com