"It’s an embarrassment" – Penangites Criticise Gurney Bay’s Poor Maintenance Just One Year After Its Launch

Gurney Bay, formerly known as Gurney Wharf, was envisioned as a transformative public space along George Town’s coastline. Built on reclaimed land, the RM247.8 million project spans 24.28 hectares and is divided into two phases. Phase One, which opened last year on February 4, 2024, features a playground, skate park, viewing deck, promenade, kiosks, and open-air car parks.

The park was designed to be a lush, vibrant recreational zone with over 1,500 trees and 10,000 shrubs planted to enhance its green appeal. Phase Two, still under construction, promises a hawker centre, multi-level carpark, water garden, and more, with completion expected by mid-2025.

Cracks beneath the surface

Despite its ambitious scope and scenic location, Gurney Bay has been plagued by problems almost from day one. Within 24 hours of its opening, visitors reported damaged playground equipment and cracks in newly built concrete structures. This led to former Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng publicly criticising the quality of construction, questioning the planning and oversight of the project.

Even more recently, visitors and Penangites have voiced concerns over the lack of maintainance and care being put into the existing faciities. In a Facebook post shared on the Facebook group PenangToday Community, a resident shared images of the state of the park.

In the post he writes, "Sad to see this kind of situation at Gurney Bay Park. Not maintained just after 1 year. What will happen in 5 years time? Such a shame!"

Adding to the chorus of disappointment, one of our readers, Ali Loo, shared her own experience after a recent visit with her family. "As a Penangite, I was excited about having a new space to stroll in the evenings instead of always heading to malls like many others do. When I visited in September 2024, there were already signs of damage to the playground equipment, which I found disappointing."

"However, during my visit a few days ago, I was truly appalled by the state of the area. It was in a dilapidated condition and had become an eyesore. It’s an embarrassment to the state, especially considering the number of international tourists who might visit the park. I hope the relevant authorities take swift action and ensure it is properly maintained moving forward.”

Her sentiments echo a growing frustration among locals who had hoped Gurney Bay would be a long-lasting, well-maintained public space. Instead, many now worry that without urgent intervention, the park may fall into further disrepair.