A civil engineer who met with Cabinet last week discussed plans for the establishment of Barbuda’s cargo dock in a more suitable location on the island’s south side, due to concerns raised over the current river dock’s vulnerability.
According to the Cabinet notes, the proposed new site, situated approximately a quarter mile from the existing dock, would be built on bedrock rather than sand, as this would make it more appropriate for large cargo vessels to dock there.
Chief of Staff in the Prime Minister’s Office, Ambassador Lionel Hurst explained that “they’re of the view that that is a better place for which a larger dock can be placed”.
However, before the project can advance, three major studies must be undertaken: a seabed composition analysis, a geotechnical study, and a maintenance plan to prevent siltation. Following the completion of these studies, discussions with the Barbuda Council will commence.
Meanwhile, Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) officials also addressed Cabinet on several infrastructure developments, including the expansion of water storage capacity with four new reservoirs added to the existing eight tanks, bringing total storage capacity to over 5 million gallons.
APUA also reported delays in its channel dredging project in the Maiden Island area, with completion now projected for January 2025.
The project aims to accommodate vessels with deeper drafts for cement delivery to Crabb’s and LNG offloading near the electricity plant.
“They’ve encountered rock,” Hurst said, explaining the delays, “and there is a video showing the kind of rocks that are being unearthed from the depths of the sea.”
The Cabinet has instructed APUA and the dredging company to meet to discuss expediting the project’s completion.
“If Cabinet had its way, it would be ready before Christmas,” Hurst added.
