A proposal to open a 3.9km stretch of coastline in Northern Bahrain for public use is moving back into focus, with municipal officials pressing for a seafront that serves families, fishermen and visitors. The planned coastal strip would extend along Al Nakheel Highway and pass the villages of Karranah, Jid Al Haj, Janusan and Barbar. Northern Municipal Council chairman Sayed Shubber Al Wadaei said the aim is to protect public access to the shore while keeping the area connected to its fishing, pearling and village heritage. The project has been under discussion for years, but no start date has yet been confirmed.
Public access at the centre of the plan
The council says the shoreline should remain available to residents and visitors, with space for recreation as well as facilities that meet community needs. A government response issued in 2021 referred to a proposed public coast of about 3,900 metres, including service areas intended for people using the waterfront.
Historic links to the sea
The villages along the proposed route have long relied on the sea for livelihoods and local identity. Fishermen previously used the coast to reach fishing grounds and pearl-diving areas, making the shoreline an important part of daily life and economic activity.
Community representatives from the four villages met at the municipal council in 2018 and prepared a 14-point document covering public access, services and protection of the area’s coastal character. The council later adopted the recommendations and has continued to push for their implementation.
Studies and government decisions pending
Environmental studies are being carried out along the Al Nakheel Highway coast. A specialist company has met council officials and collected details about the natural setting, shoreline conditions and surrounding communities.
However, Al Wadaei said the project is considered a major government undertaking, meaning decisions on funding, scheduling and delivery remain with the authorities.
Clean-up concerns near Barbar
The council is also addressing waste, abandoned boats, fishing equipment and sand build-up near Barbar’s anchorage and fishermen’s channel. Fishermen have agreed to form a local monitoring group, while proposed measures include removing neglected boats, organising fish traps, installing bins and adding warning signs.
The council has also asked environmental authorities to review a fishermen-led proposal to clear sand deposits that obstruct boat movement.