On Monday we told you that the ancient wooden structure on Eve Street had been demolished by the city. The City published a Public notice and got a court order - but should some effort have been made to document the historic relevance of the colonial structure?
The Mayor today told us those considerations were trumped by the fact that it posed a very present public danger:
Reporter
"What triggered the council to proceed with the demolition of the structure at 118 Eve Street?"
Bernard Wagner, Mayor Belize City
"Well it became a hazard to the municipality and it was about to fall at any time and we wanted to be proactive we have received several reports on it posing as a risk to resident and so we acted on it."
Reporter
"Because of its age and particular "shotgun style" design the house had been noted for its historical and cultural value. Did the council take into account any consideration of these factors?"
Bernard Wagner, Mayor Belize City
"Well obviously we always take into account the historical nature. Of any building before we put it for demolition. But this took a long course and we went even into the courts, the municipal courts to get the order to proceed with and so we feel that while it's a historical landmark it cannot supersede the safety of our residents."
