Residents of the Valley, Virgin Gorda, are now receiving full water service from the temporary portable water plant at Handsome Bay.

Over the last few months the permanent Handsome Bay plant was experiencing difficulties with water production and is presently undergoing an upgrade that include installations of high-end pumps and filters that will ensure a quality end product.

Minister for Communications and Works, Honourable Mark Vanterpool said he is pleased that the issue is under control and is looking forward to the completion of the permanent solution for the Valley.           

He said that the quantity and volume of water has improved over the last two weeks and the Water and Sewerage Department along with GE Water/Aqua Design are working to maintain that standard.

Minister Vanterpool added, “We also plan to upgrade the plant at North Sound and that should be happening in the fall of this year. In the meantime, we are trying to keep as much water in that area.”

The temporary plant is producing an average of 200,000 imperial gallons of water per day. Once upgrades are complete, the permanent plant will be producing up to 480,000 imperial gallons of water to the Valley. The Ministry of Communications and Works is confident that the portable plant is producing enough water for residents who were receiving service from the Handsome Bay water plant.

Minister Vanterpool is expected to give a full statement on water in the Territory at the 8th Sitting of the First Session of the Third House of Assembly on Monday, April 18.

The Government of the Virgin Islands stays committed to ensuring that at least 98% of residents throughout the Territory have access to the public water system.