Kochi Corporation’s heritage museum plan for old office sparks charges of staking claim to LDF proposal

After raising stiff opposition to the proposal of the Left Democratic Front (LDF) to retain the old Kochi Corporation office as a heritage structure and demanding that it be handed over for the expansion of the neighbouring General Hospital (GH), Ernakulam, the United Democratic Front (UDF)-led council has now put forward a similar plan, with a rough estimate of ₹3 crore.

The proposal envisages renovating the old building along the lines of a museum without compromising its heritage value, while converting it into offices for the newly appointed art, design and cultural curator of Kochi city and the Centre for Heritage, Environment and Development (C-HED). It would also temporarily house the Vyttila zonal office of the Corporation, which is slated for demolition and reconstruction. The proposal is yet to be placed before the council.

“The heritage charm of the old building will be retained, including the council hall and the Mayor’s cabin. The later extensions will be removed. A detailed project report is yet to be prepared, and the proposal will move forward only with the council’s approval,” said Mayor V.K. Minimol.