Antigua and Barbuda looking to expand its capacity in the cruise and yachting sector.
The government on Wednesday took a decision to develop the north side of Rat Island as an extension of the cruise port.
A note from the cabinet meeting said while the cost of this project has not been determined “the return on investment is expected to justify the expenditure.”
When completed, the port extension is expected to facilitate berthing of yachts and small cruise ships.
At yesterday’s post cabinet media briefing, Information Minister Melford Nicholas said the project is expected to allow taxi operators, restaurant owners and other entrepreneurs to grow their businesses.
He said the port extension falls in line with the government plans to repurpose the capital city, St John, to make it a more attractive place for both locals and visitors.
When asked whether funds for the project will be borne by the government or a private investor, Nicholas did not answer the question directly but said the government wants to spur economic activity.
“I think it would be fair to look at it as the government’s continued approach towards economic development, and if you look at it from the way we’re looking at it, we’re looking at certainly enhancing the value of the land that is sitting there idle,” he stated.
“And the government often takes the view that it must lead, and it must create the opportunity and the incentives to attract investment.”
Nicholas noted that once the area becomes more “economically viable”, the government is willing to support by providing access to amenities to facilitate a hub for dining and entertainment.
The minister anticipates a “scramble for land” from persons hoping to tap into opportunities that will come from the expanded port.
Nicholas was also asked to provide an update on the stalled Fort James project, which was being carried out by Royal Caribbean Limited (RCL).
“The matter is up for review, and at some point in time, it will be either a green thumbs up for that particular project to execute it, or if RCL are not able to execute as planned, then we will consider that a closed issue and move towards another level of development,” Nicholas stated.
He noted regardless of what takes place, Fort James remains an “important nexus” for Antigua and Barbuda “to extract the maximum benefit from cruise tourism.”
Outside of the cruise industry, the government plans to dredge waters in Crabbs and the northern corridor to allow larger vessels to bring cement to Antigua to meet growing demands of the construction sector.
The cabinet note highlighted cement brought to Antigua on the current vessel cannot last more than one day due to the demand.
The dredging is expected to be completed in 120 days.
SOURCE: Loop News
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