FOR decades, the name Gurney has been synonymous with ‘Gurney Drive’.
Local hawker stalls would operate along the concrete coastline and serve plates of freshly made food and snacks onto metal tables and stools.
To date, Gurney Drive is located among expensive high-rise condominiums and two shopping complexes that attract thousands daily.
In addition, a new attraction, which was introduced in 2016, serves to elevate not just the Gurney area but also Penang as a state that is pushing for sustainable urban development.
Formerly known as Gurney Wharf, the Gurney Bay project is a Penang government initiative introduced for the benefit of fellow Penangites.
The Gurney Bay project is currently being built on reclaimed land that spans off from Gurney Drive.
The project experienced slight hiccups in the process due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
In a recent survey conducted near the construction site of Gurney Bay, many locals were anticipating the outcome since it was inspired by famous shoreline sites such as in Spain, Singapore, and Australia.
Marcus Imran Kennedy, 22, an IT Major said that the project serves as a beacon for tourist attraction in the northern region.
He added that more inflow of tourists in Penang would be beneficial for the state’s economy.
Furthermore, he said that Penang is witnessing the rise of independent small businesses such as pop-up clothing stalls.
“However, to date, businesses as such are struggling to keep up as the payment of rent is costing as much as operations.”
Therefore, he suggested that “once the Gurney Bay project is completed, the authorities of such should provide incentives, particularly in rent, to allow small and independent enterprises to grow and later contribute to the state’s economy”.
Similar thoughts on the entrepreneurial front were also shared by Mohammad Noor Nadzir Mohamad Nasir, 31, an administrative assistant.
In addition, he made suggestions to increase parking space in the area.
Pulau Tikus assemblyman Joshua Woo Sze Zeng said phase 1 of the Gurney Bay project is now over 95% completed and comprises more than 27 acres of recreational space.
Furthermore, he added that the project is set to be one of the most vibrant spots for Penangites to spend time and conduct leisure activities with family and friends.
Former Pulau Tikus assemblyman Chris Lee Chun Kit mentioned that the project would offer enjoyment to people of all ages in Penang.
Story by Norman Sim
Pix by Ahmad Adil Muhamad