For many years there has been an ongoing public outcry for restroom facilities and proper maintenance at beaches across the territory of the Virgin Islands by both residents and visitors.
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Labor under the leadership of Hon. Vincent Wheatley made good on its promise to improve bathroom and beach facilities across the territory, beginning with the Beef Island Beach.
Beach-goers to Long Bay beach, Beef Island now have access to completed restrooms.
Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration Honourable Vincent Wheatley said he was pleased with the completion of the facilities and mentioned that this is one of many that will be developed on beaches across the Territory.
Honourable Wheatley said, “As we go through this pandemic with an air of uncertainty, it is very important that we do not get caught up in the pandemic but that we look forward to a time when the BVI will once again thrive in tourism. This restroom is a testament to our commitment to ensure that the BVI remains on the cutting edge of tourism.”
Leader of Her Majesty’s Loyal Opposition and Representative for the Eighth Electoral District Honourable Marlon Penn thanked the Government for ensuring that the facility was followed through and built for the people of the Territory and in particular the people of his district. He went on to thank the contractor and everyone who laboured to produce the finished product.
Honourable Penn said, “It’s a beautiful facility. I think it is a facility that we all should be proud of as a community and as a Territory. I am excited that persons who come to the beach in the morning or on the weekends will enjoy a wholesome facility for their use and also for the tourists who come here from time to time.”
Funding for the construction of the restroom facilities were made available in the 2018 budget. Works commenced in 2019 and the facility was completed in 2021 by Chalwell Construction.
Other officials present at the ceremony included Deputy Speaker for the House of Assembly Honourable Neville Smith and Junior Minister for Trade and Economic Development Honourable Shereen Flax-Charles.