THE EDITOR, Sir:
I READ in the papers recently about the new patty shop being built at the University of the West Indies (UWI).
The report had a photograph of a building far advanced intended to house a Juicy Beef establishment near to the front entrance of the university. I didn't believe it, until today.
So here's the thing. First of all, the UWI administration not too long ago spends big bucks correctly and justifiably enhancing one of the few outstanding man-made vistas in Jamaica.
The view of the entrance road leading to Ring road, the fabulous mural-painted hall, administration buildings, green lawns to the sides, and the University Chapel, all majestically laid out against the spectacular and breathtaking backdrop of the Blue Mountains.
New palms lining the drive, now becoming mature and majestic trees, a quaint picket fence, and floral sign welcoming all, now complete the picture.
Then the madness starts. The sign doesn't really welcome all as all non-staff and students are not allowed to enter this fabulous entrance.
So who is the welcome sign for? Maybe the odd dignitary I suppose.
Instead, the public is directed to a back entrance which they hasten to try and fix up with way too many fancy light poles. Sorry but it still only qualifies as a back entrance squeezed between a tennis court and the side of a post office.
CRASS COMMERCIALISM
Now smack in the middle of the fabulous vista ... comes the patty shop. Who makes these decisions?
The UWI supposedly the seat of higher learning and thinking now nods violently to crass commercialism. I don't get it.
A food area has been cleverly and discreetly established on the north-eastern side of Ring road, where ideally, additional food establishments would enhance the area.
Even to create café-style roadside dining would not be out of line with a focus of eating in that area. What with the existing bank and halls of residence, a right little community is being formed.
Someone was making some good decisions then. Obviously, someone else is now in that seat. And they haven't got a clue how to drive. Careening from one bad decision to another.
Here is my suggestion: Make that structure into an information centre, combined with a mini museum of the university. If one must nod to commercialism, sell UWI T-shirts and such. Close the post office gate, open the main gate to one and all - one less gate to monitor, make the place into a tourist attraction. The Lord knows Kingston needs more positive images. Most of all, just don't put the patty shop there.
I am, etc,
VITRUVIUS
vitsangle@yahoo.com
Kingston Jamaica
