The Tribune

By NATARIO McKENZIE

Tribune Business Reporter

nmckenzie@triubnemedia.net

Potter’s Cay Dock is set to undergo a $3.1 million upgrade it was announced yesterday, with the project to be carried out over the next 16 months.

Minister of transport and aviation, Glenys Hanna Martin, said funding has already been approved for the project to revitalise the eastern end of the dock, and create a more security sensitive area conducive to  business and the public.

Mrs Hanna Martin said: “The genius of this effort is that it is the product of private and public sector involvement. Many of the ideas have come from the private sector, in particular the mail-boat operators, who have been integral to the planning process.”

Mrs Hanna Martin added that phase I of the project involves the relocation of trees at the southern foreshore to create additional parking spaces.

“This will create parking eastward to Williams Street. There will be substantial landscaping of the area,” she said. “Simultaneously, work will proceed on the removal of debris, delinquent  vessels in the harbour and unwanted material and equipment discarded by mailboat operators and others over the years.

“We are going to clear the dock of junk that has accumulated over the many years. During the first phase there will be renovations and extensions of the fish and farm store, which will be extended by 150 feet to accommodate mailboat operators and agents.

“This extension will accommodate freight holdings, bulkhead curbings, passenger waiting areas and bathrooms will be installed. The idea is to create an environment that is conducive to good business,” said Mrs Hanna Martin.

“We are going to have security checkpoints entering and existing this facility. Permanent curbs will be erected at the end of the dock as a safety measure. In the final phase, the causeway will be repaired and rehabilitated. The dock entry would be widened, drainage wells and additional landscaping  would be installed. Phase III will see the complete redirection of traffic to the general parking  area.”

Port Controller, Commander Patrick McNeil, said: “It is the intent of the Port Department to develop a port facility that is clean, environmentally friendly and conducive to business and for the public.

“Potter’s Cay Dock will become a restricted area and security sensitive. The movement of crew passengers, cargo through the facility and on to and off the ships will be given full focus and attention to stop pilferage, theft, illicit drugs and gun smuggling. There will be signage, lighting and CCTV coverage throughout the facility.”