Dubai: The Sharjah Development and Investment Authority (SDIA, also known as Shurooq) Saturday said it will start working on the ‘Heart of Sharjah', a heritage project.
His Highness Dr Shaikh Sultan Bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, gave his approval for its comprehensive strategic plan to develop the region's biggest heritage project in the heritage area.
"The Ruler of Sharjah approved the detailed plans and designs for the Heart of Sharjah project, which were presented by Shaikha Budoor Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Shurooq, and Marwan Jassim Al Sarkal, Shurooq CEO," a statement said.
Accordingly, a joint work team and committee have been set up to start the implementation of the first phase of the project.
The project will be implemented in several phases, including ongoing development works during 2010, with the aim of reviving the historic and heritage area, linking them to represent Sharjah the way it was during the 1950s and transforming it into a tourist and trade destination with contemporary and artistic touches.
The joint committee, chaired by Shaikha Budoor, includes members from several government organisations, as Shurooq is responsible for the direct supervision of the development of this project.
Support elements
Shurooq is to discuss with bodies, participating in the committee, the support of the work team and speeding up of the required studies and reports in preparation for the implementation of the project and the launch of its foundation works.
The committee mentioned above is composed of representatives from the Ruler's Office, Sharjah Art Foundation, Sharjah Museums Department and the Heritage Department.
Another committee, comprising members of the key committee, will be set up to implement projects, and will include Sharjah Municipality, Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority, the Department of Public Works, and the Department of Planning and Survey.
Shaikha Budoor said: "All nations hold on to their historic roots and are proud of their creativity and heritage, and our leadership is keen to highlight the UAE's historic role, in keeping with its prosperity and distinguished human achievements that serve as a source of pride for the nation's younger generations while moving steadily towards its future."
She added Shurooq is determined to develop the historic area in Sharjah in a way that helps highlight important stages of the history of the Arabian Gulf region while bringing its historic role back into the limelight.
The Heart of Sharjah project is expected to provide a chance for the public and private sector to strike a qualitative partnership that helps rebuild the area to preserve its heritage.
