WILLEMSTAD - Today marks the beginning of the demolition of a dilapidated building in Punda. The structure at the corner of Keukenstraat and Sommelsdijkstraat 8 is deemed a hazard to road users by the government. However, Pro Monumento Foundation intends to halt the demolition plans. The foundation is initiating a summary proceeding to put a stop to the teardown.
According to the chairman of the heritage advocacy group, the condition of the old building is not poor. Dennis Klaus advocates for emergency restoration of the roof. He is particularly concerned about the protected cityscape of the downtown area. He fears that the site might remain vacant for years, which could be detrimental to the image of Willemstad, listed on UNESCO's World Heritage List. He also raises questions about the procedure followed.