The Antigua and Barbuda
government
has established a three-member ministerial team to coordinate the redevelopment and beautification of St. John’s, with High Street identified as the starting point for improvements to the capital.
The team comprises Information and Communication Technologies Minister Melford Nicholas, Minister of Social and Urban Transformation Rawdon Turner and Minister of Housing and Works Maria Browne.
Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant disclosed the arrangement during Thursday’s post-Cabinet media briefing, explaining that the ministers will work together to coordinate the government’s plans for upgrading the capital.
The initiative is intended to improve the appearance, functionality and overall condition of St. John’s through a coordinated approach involving the relevant government ministries and agencies.
High Street, one of the capital’s main commercial thoroughfares, has been identified as the initial focus of the redevelopment programme.
The government intends to address the appearance of buildings and public spaces as part of its wider efforts to make the city more attractive to residents, businesses and visitors.
Cabinet has also discussed providing paint to assist with improving the exterior appearance of buildings in the capital, while encouraging property owners to take greater responsibility for maintaining their premises.
The involvement of the three ministers is expected to bring together responsibilities relating to infrastructure, urban development, housing and technology as the government advances its plans.
Merchant indicated that the administration is seeking greater coordination among the agencies responsible for managing and maintaining St. John’s.
However, he clarified that there are currently no plans to merge the St. John’s Development Corporation with other government agencies.
Instead, the focus is on improving cooperation and ensuring that the various entities involved in the capital’s development work toward common objectives.
The redevelopment initiative forms part of the government’s broader efforts to modernize St. John’s, improve its physical appearance and strengthen its appeal as the country’s main commercial and administrative centre.
The government has not announced a total budget or a detailed implementation timetable for the programme.
Further details on the proposed improvements and the responsibilities of the ministerial team are expected as the initiative progresses.
Source: Antigua News Room Government Establishes Three-Minister Team to Oversee Redevelopment of St. John's.