Trinidad and Tobago authorities have banned entertainment events at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba after complaints about facility damage and noise disturbances affecting nearby communities. Urban Development Corporation chairman Shankar Bidaisee announced that the policy extends to all properties managed by UDeCOTT, stating the venue was constructed exclusively for cricket and incurs maintenance costs between $10 million and $15 million annually, while event fees generate minimal revenue.
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar cited escalating noise pollution as a key factor behind the prohibition, declaring that residential complaints had reached intolerable levels. Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles questioned whether additional UDeCOTT sites, including the Hyatt and Invaders Bay, would face similar restrictions, criticizing the lack of stakeholder consultation before implementing the ban.
Beckles challenged the government to clarify potential alternative plans for the stadium while suggesting the decision may reflect undisclosed intentions for the property.
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar cited escalating noise pollution as a key factor behind the prohibition, declaring that residential complaints had reached intolerable levels. Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles questioned whether additional UDeCOTT sites, including the Hyatt and Invaders Bay, would face similar restrictions, criticizing the lack of stakeholder consultation before implementing the ban.
Beckles challenged the government to clarify potential alternative plans for the stadium while suggesting the decision may reflect undisclosed intentions for the property.
