Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Communications and Works, Mr. Anthony McMaster has said that designs for the West End Facility are in the final stages and plans will be brought to the community for input.

He said, “We have now completed designs for a new building and we are hoping that at least by the end of this week we can agree and arrange with the district representative to set up a community meeting to share the schematics with the community to get their input.”

Mr. McMaster said that the new building would allow for the full reopening of the facility and permit for future expansions based on the current designs.

The West End port facility was completely demolished by Hurricane Irma and in the interim, a 20-foot trailer container was donated this week to accommodate the customs and immigration office at the port.

The Permanent Secretary added that the temporary measure is not adequate for full international ferry operations but only to better accommodate officers. 

“We are grateful to the Blue Ocean Caribbean Enterprises Limited, and Curt and Nancy Richardson who have been instrumental in providing the container,” Mr. McMaster said. He added, “We think it's a great stride through partnership in the BVI and that persons are willing to partner with the government to rebuild and take the country forward.”

The temporary structure is outfitted with air conditioning, office equipment and is awaiting electricity connection. The container can withstand a category two hurricane and will be relocated if a category three or higher poses a threat to the Territory.

The Ministry of Communications and Works and the BVI Ports Authority share the concerns of the community and are continuing to seek other temporary alternatives to better accommodate full ferry services at the West End Port.

The Ministry of Communications and Works thanks the community for their understanding at this time as they move forward with the transformation of public and private partnerships.