Some people believe that it is better to build new museums and town halls instead of renovating the old ones. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Give your opinion and relevant examples from your own experience.
In an era, when renewing looks of cities has become a top
priority, there have been to raze all the old structures, including museums and
town houses and reconstruct new ones. This proposal has, though, fetched
accolades, as well as brickbats from various sections of society.
As emphasis on saving energy and resources is gaining
momentum, rebuilding new premises instead of refurbishing old ones seems to be
a better option. If the museums and town halls are constructed all new, it
could allow deployment of new technology in almost every department of
building, in terms of quality and quantity of the construction material; and
lighting to be deployed for illuminating the premises. Modern technology
entails use of eco-friendly building material and techniques; and minimal lighting,
as energy saving equipment is used extensively today and appropriate
arrangements are made for natural light during daytime. Moreover, finding
modern substitutes for material used in past would be an expensive exercise.
Moreover, reconstructing these from scratch would
also ensure prudent use of space. New buildings and premises are designed as
per contemporary requirements which could facilitate addressing concerns
regarding creation of space for parking of vehicles, and broadening of the
roads to ease up traffic congestion. New constructions would also render
improved and uniform look to the area where all other structures constructed
new.
However, undeniably, these buildings form an important part of
history and heritage of any city, and razing them would mean forgetting the
past. This would also make cities lose their charm and thus tourists, as
visitors are not only interested in what is there in these buildings but also
the nostalgia connected to the exteriors.
Hence, I believe that although retaining the old edifices can be useful and attract tourism, it is necessary remodel dilapidated structures. Thus, redevelopment of these facilities should be done discreetly.