‘80 Club’ land and building taken over by Govt; Divisional Secretary

- For failing to pay arrears
 -Comprehensive refurbishment and restoration of Club planned by UDA jointly with Waters Edge Ltd.

The government has taken over the land and building of the 80 Club of Colombo at Independence Avenue, Colombo 7, with effect from November 12, for violating several conditions, an official said.

“We have taken over the land and building at Independence Avenue, Colombo 7, where the 80 Club is located for violating several conditions including non-payments of lease arrears,” Thimbirigasyaya Divisional Secretary Ms Priyantha Dissanayake told the Daily Mirror.

She also said although the management of 80 Club tried to settle the lease arrears, they failed to do it on time, compelling the authorities to take over the property.

She also revealed that the Urban Development Authority (UDA) had already presented a cabinet paper to take over the property under its purview for development work.

Meanwhile, in a message to members of the executive committee of the 80 club stated that on November 12, 2020, the Divisional Secretary of Thimbirigasyaya has, on the authority of the GOSL, taken over possession of the land and building which is owned by the government.

"We have been informed to cease operations of the Club immediately and as such the General Committee decided to close the 80 Club with effect from 11 pm on November 15 2020," the 80 Club said.

It also said that the authorities had informed the Club that a comprehensive refurbishment and restoration process of the Club premises is planned by the Urban Development Authority jointly with Waters Edge Ltd.

"The Executive Committee under the advice of the authorities have decided to differ the payment of membership subscription for the year 2021," it said.
"We will keep you informed of the reopening and operational model of '80 Club' upon finalisation of same and other arrangements in respect of the Club."

The 80 Club is an Association owned by its members and the present Executive Committee will make our utmost efforts to preserve this historical club and continue with the facilities for its members, the message added.(Sunil Jayasiri)