Massive upgrade for Watooka House
—Spotlighted as a tourism destination
DPI, Guyana, Thursday, June 27, 2019
Following a massive $50Million upgrade the well-known Watooka House in Linden, today re-opened its doors.
The colonial-style complex boasts a guest house, a newly refurbished swimming pool, pedicured lawns, a basketball court, a tennis court and a new deck overseeing the Demerara River. Also included in the upgrades was an overhaul of the establishments’ suites and kitchen, extension of the restaurant and the installation of a wireless internet access system and the acquisition of several modern amenities.
In attendance at today’s ribbon-cutting ceremony and grand reopening were Minster of Business, Haimraj Rajkumar, Minister within the Ministry of Communities, Annette Ferguson, Minister within the Ministry of Agriculture, with responsibility for Rural Affairs, Valerie Adams-Yearwood and Linden Mayor, Waneka Arindell.
Watooka Complex has been in existence for decades. It is located in the small community of Watooka, located on the Mackenzie shore in the mining town of Linden and has its history enshrined in the commencement of bauxite mining.
Today, the complex is a renown tourist hotspot in the mining town and has hosted dignitaries from all over the world.
Minister Ferguson described the complex as “crucial to the retention of the nation’s heritage and that of our history”.
She explained the vision of the government in maintaining the national heritage and historical buildings and sites.
“The David Granger led administration has demonstrated its commitment to the principles of promoting nationhood.”
As the minister responsible for the tourism industry in Guyana, Minister Rajkumar made it known the deep history that surrounds the landmark complex. The guest house was built in the 1940s and served as a club for the expatriates who were employed with the Demerara Bauxite Company. Later, the colonial building transformed into a guest house.
The Business Minister noted the Watooka House’s capacity for growth and tourism and the pivotal role the newly refurbished complex will play in Linden’s development.
Mayor Arindell said that the township of Linden is grateful for the upgrades the complex has seen as it will help to transform Linden. “Linden is now in the right place [to see] magnificent changes to now be made.”
She remarked that Watooka House is an integral part of Linden history and its story must be told.
Watooka House hosts guest, birthdays, weddings, parties and is a famous recreational spot for both Lindeners and out-of-region visitors.
Images: Marceano Narine