The $1.5 million redevelopment project at the iconic Ratu Sukuna Park in Suva will be further delayed, say Minister for Local Government Maciu Nalumisa.

The park which once was a popular recreational spot for the public has been closed since 2022.

Since then, the construction was expected to finish within eight months.

However, the park has been left idle for almost two years with no work or workmen on site, due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Ministry has announced that the work will be completed by October this year.

Nalumisa says, the delayed was caused by some unforeseen circumstances, and the work will be completed around Christmas this year.

“The timeline was supposed to be at the end of last month, but we’re hopeful that before Christmas we should be able to open the Sukuna Park”, he said.

The refurbished park will feature a multipurpose state of art podium and a modern café with rooftop open space overlooking the harbour.

“The podium is close to 90 percent completion. The civil works have already been done. Its a mater of putting more cosmetics on the ground, which will also involve more landscaping to make it more attractive”, he adds.