Mayor to keep soccer field

JAKARTA (JP): Central Jakarta Mayor Abdul Kahfi said yesterday that the Menteng soccer stadium, a prime target of many developers because of its strategic location, should be retained.

Central Jakarta effectively only has five soccer fields left, the other four being in Kemayoran, Cempaka Putih, Gambir and Tanah Abang, Kahfi said.

"If there was any new construction on that site, the soccer field should also be maintained," Kahfi announced. "It has a historical record and Menteng people still need the arena."

The stadium on Jl. H.O.S. Cokroaminoto is managed by the Jakarta Soccer Association. It is one of Jakarta's prime sites. It is adjacent to a shopping area that includes Keris Gallery department store and a number of restaurants.

The Jakarta administration has received several applications, including one from the Indra Rukmana group, to convert the property into luxury apartments.

Kahfi said the governor is expected to rule on the issue. (04)