Polo Beach demolition: SSNIT board did the country a disservice – Freddie Blay

Freddie Blay, former National Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has criticized the demolition of the Polo Beach Club at La Beach, asserting that the action has resulted in substantial financial losses and disrupted the burgeoning tourism and hospitality sector. Mr Blay claims that several members of the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) Board of Trustees did not inspect the beachfront before approving the demolition.

He also pointed out that the La Traditional Council has reported that around 85 individuals operating in the vicinity pay rent to the stool, disputing the characterization of these enterprises as encroachers. In an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen, Mr Blay labeled the decision to demolish the structures as detrimental to the nation, arguing that the beachfront has evolved into a crucial economic and tourism destination over many decades.

He insisted that businesses had been operating along the beachfront for over 70 years, preceding the construction of the Labadi Beach Hotel and other establishments in the vicinity. Mr Blay questioned why these businesses were labeled as encroachers. He emphasized that the beachfront has transformed into a meticulously organized system that generates substantial economic activity, especially during festive seasons.

According to Mr Blay, the beachfront offers a distinct tourism offering compared to hotels and should be incorporated into the larger hospitality and tourism sector. He also expressed worry regarding the financial setbacks resulting from the demolition, urging those responsible to be held accountable for the repercussions of the action.

Lastly, Mr Blay contended that SSNIT's investments should be managed in a way that promotes the expansion of the hospitality industry instead of impeding businesses operating near its properties.