BLOCK LAID FOR NEW GOVERNMENT HOUSE

His Excellency Governor Frank Savage and Chief Minister the Hon. Ralph T. O’Neal took part in a traditional block laying ceremony on September 3 to signal the start of the construction phase for the new Government House in Road Town.

The building, including the garage and storage areas, is roughly 6,500 square feet of enclosed space, with a further 2,500 square feet of covered terrace. It includes a large kitchen to cater for several hundreds, five bedrooms with bathrooms and suites, a swimming pool, a garage and a car park for up to 22 vehicles.

At the ceremony today, Governor Savage spoke of his satisfaction with the progress being made on the project. The BVI Government, in partnership with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO), is financing the project, which will cost some $2.9 million. The edifice is expected to be a tourist attraction site, together with the old Government House, which will be partially renovated to serve as an historical Virgin Islands’ museum.

The Governor also paid tribute to Project Manager of Meridian Construction Mr. Hugh Whistler, who has also been tasked with the responsibility of transforming the old Government House under a budget provided by the Chief Minister’s Office.

Meridian Construction is the contracting firm erecting the structure, while Wells Engineering is the engineering consultant. OBM Architects designed the building.

Mr. O’Neal also voiced his satisfaction with the timeliness of the project despite prior delays. He spoke strongly of the design work and highlighted the West Indian architecture, which was preferred above others suggested.

He further stated that the discussions on the project were fruitful and that he is looking forward to the opening ceremony.