Glimmer of hope: Linden Business opens US $1.7 million complex

demerara waves

by Lennox Gasper

In a community with a steadily growing unemployment rate and a stifling economy, a brand new US$1.7 million theatre, mall and complex is expected to create more than 40 jobs.

The Toucan Complex located at Amelia's Ward, owned by well-known businessman, Dr. Joseph Haynes opened its doors on September 12, 2015.

In her address, Tourism Minister Catherne Hughes expressed pleasure that Linden was following in the footsteps of Georgetown where new malls and cinemas are being built. She applauded the lone businessman, colloquially speaking -for putting his money where his mouth is. “He did not have to spend his money in this pool for your child and our children in the community… He did not have to create a lawn tennis court. But he has put some in the community so that in the next couple of years we could have a Wimbledon player." Noting the recent achievement of Wimbledon player and Lindener Sachia Vickery, Hughes urged the gathering to ensure that the business succeed since it is our responsibility to do so. Equipped with a Movie Theater, Swimming Pool, and Tennis Court, the mall is also expected to provide some convenience to the residence of Amelia’s Ward who would otherwise have to travel down to central Mackenzie for most if not all their shopping needs. One resident who chose to remain nameless said “It’s a good and timely investment but I’m yet to see all that is said to be offered. Also in attendance was Alliance For Change (AFC) Chairman Mr. Nigel Hughes and government parliamentarians Valarie Patterson and Mr. Jermaine Figueira.

Motivated by his faith and belief that Linden can become the leading community once again, Dr. Haynes said he is ardently trying to stimulate the people of Linden/Region 10 to understand how important it is to get going. Several times in the past Dr Haynes made significant investments into the community of Linden. According to him “because of the 2012 incident in Linden it has scared off investors tremendously damaged business." He said it had gotten so bad that it forced him to close his first establishment on Co-op Crescent Central Mackenzie and explore new areas of business.

He is also the owner of The Linden School of Excellence, and still working to reopen his first place of business in central Mackenzie as he continues to helps change the face of the once thriving community during the globally profitable days of bauxite.

In recent months, the international price of bauxite has plummeted due largely to China's economic slowdown. One of the spin-offs has been the laying off of about 50 workers from BOSAI Minerals' operations at Linden.