Fort Cornwallis restoration set to rejuvenate the historic site

Penang Chief Minister, Chow Kon Yeow, has announced the upcoming completion of the restoration and conservation project for the Cornwallis Fort Moat in Fort Cornwallis.

This ambitious project, with a budget of RM15.3 million, aims to revitalize the historic site and enhance its cultural significance.

With an expected completion date of 2025, the project is set to transform Fort Cornwallis into a thriving heritage destination.

Chow believes that this endeavour will contribute to the development and preservation of Penang’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Restoring the historic moat at Fort Cornwallis

The restoration project’s first component focuses on preserving the iconic ‘L’-shaped moat that served as a significant fortification during the British era in 1804.

The moat, encompassing Fort Cornwallis, boasts an estimated width ranging from 9 to 20 meters and was originally constructed using durable granite and bricks.

To ensure its authenticity, the moat will be refilled with water, replicating its historical purpose.

Additionally, a state-of-the-art filtration system will be implemented to maintain cleanliness and safeguard the area’s cultural and historical integrity.

Upgrading the Kota Selera Food Court

The second component of the project involves the redevelopment of the Kota Selera Food Court, a popular dining spot, into a modern and sustainable culinary destination.

The upgraded food court will feature 26 stalls, offering an array of diverse cuisines. During the construction phase, the existing food stalls will be temporarily relocated to the adjacent playground area to ensure uninterrupted business operations.

This strategic approach aims to maintain the lively atmosphere of the food court while improving the overall dining experience for locals and tourists alike.

The project is slated for completion by 2025, bringing forth a vibrant and contemporary food court that complements the historical charm of Fort Cornwallis.

Collaboration and conservation efforts

YAA Sdn. Bhd. has been appointed as the main consultant for the project, working closely with Jayamas Property Construction Sdn. Bhd. as the main contractor.

In collaboration with local and international consultants, the George Town Conservation and Development Corporation (GTCDC) will establish a captivating mini gallery within the storerooms of Fort Cornwallis.

This gallery will showcase diverse cultures across different timelines, highlighting the historical significance of the region.

With an expected completion date in mid-2024, this project has received a budget of RM1.5 million from the Penang State Government.

Enhancing the waterfront

In addition to the fort moat restoration, the Penang State Government and GTCDC have plans to enhance the East Seafront area, stretching from Swettenham Jetty to Tanjung City Marina.

This ambitious endeavour aims to elevate the waterfront’s appeal, creating a dynamic and captivating space for locals and tourists to enjoy.

The Penang Bay Project will also connect the waterfront developments in Butterworth with the North Seafront and East Seafront on the island, further integrating the region’s coastal areas.

Chow expressed his gratitude to all parties involved in the successful implementation of the restoration and conservation project.

He believes that the transformation of Fort Cornwallis into a thriving heritage site will serve as a shining example of cultural preservation and contribute to the socio-economic development of Penang.

Source: Buletin Mutiara