The Tribune

By DANA SMITH

Tribune Staff Reporter

dsmith@tribunemedia.net

GARDEN Hills MP and Speaker of the House of Assembly Kendal Major says he is in talks with the owner of Strachan’s Auto, who is willing to relocate his business in the aftermath of this week’s fire.

On Monday, the blaze sent clouds of black smoke billowing into the sky that could be seen for miles across New Providence. The flames were fed by hundreds of cars in the shop’s junk yard before the fire was brought under control around 11pm.

Residents of the area have expressed concern over the junk yard as it has caught fire before. And, although a relocation is not a certainty at this point, Dr Major said yesterday, “all parties are willing to talk.”

He outlined a “couple of things” on his agenda, moving forward.

“I’m investigating whether there’s any smoke damage to the houses particularly closest to the fire – that’s mainly those on the western side,” he said, naming Wilmar Road, Churchill Drive, Saki Close, and homes in Ideal Estates.

“Health related concerns” of the residents as a result of the fire and smoke are also a concern for him, he said.

“Secondly, I am co-ordinating a meeting with the owner of Strachan’s Auto whom is very much interested in aligning with the government about possibly relocating. He’s complying,” Dr Major said.

“Of course he’s operating a legitimate business and he’s concerned about the viability of his business going forward. We’re also talk about the zoning and what we will do going forward.

“I’ve been satisfied so far, his operation is not one of derelict vehicles. They’re wrecked vehicles that he has been using to compress. Those that are not compressed still had some residual amounts of gasoline, but those that are compressed didn’t have any gasoline and are prepared to be shipped abroad as part of his business.”

Dr Major added the owner of Strachan’s Auto did complain there has been “much stealing” of parts and equipment from his property, but whether alleged thieves played a part in the fire is still unclear at this point. Police say the cause is still unknown.

As to the potential relocation, Dr Major said: “There’s not been an agreement in place, but all parties are willing to talk.”

Garden Hill Residents have been “concerned” over the junk yard, with one resident telling The Tribune he “always thought it was a hazard”.

“They’re really concerned because it’s happened before but it’s now hitting home,” Dr Major said. “It was very, very close this time to being a catastrophic event.”

Residents also expressed concern over the small number of fire trucks that responded, he said, noting that the country’s needs to do “a little bit better job” of preparing for such events.