Gov’t seeking bids to rebuild Eslyn Henley Richiez Learning Centre
The government is inviting bids for the contract to construct the new Eslyn Henley Richiez Learning Centre.
The proposed work includes but is not limited to the demolition of the existing structure, site clearance and construction of a new school building.
In a recent release, the government said the project is being funded through the $65 million hurricane rehabilitation and reconstruction loan from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB).
“Payment by CDB will be made only at the request of GOVI (Government of the Virgin Islands) and upon approval by CDB, and will be subject, in all respects, to the terms and conditions of the Financing Agreement,” the invitation document said.
“The Financing Agreement prohibits withdrawal from the financing account for the purpose of any payment to persons or entities, or for any import of goods, if such payment or import, to the knowledge of CDB, is prohibited by a decision of the United Nations Security Council taken under Chapter VII of the Charter of the United Nations,” it continued.
The project will be implemented by the Recovery and Development Agency (RDA), which has already contracted Consultants who will assist the RDA with delivering key components of the project.
“The consultants have prepared designs and contract documentation and will assist in tender administration and evaluation and supervise project activities,” the document read.
More than two years ago, Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley, then Minister for Education and Youth Affairs, said he had toured the school with the principal and architect and he was excited about a land swap between the John’s Hole-based Magistrate’s Court and Eslyn Henley’s current location, facilitated by the Minister of Lands as well as Cabinet.
Dr Wheatley had said the swap would bring Esyln Henley closer to Althea Scatliffe Primary School and allow them to share resources.
The Eslyn Henley Richez Learning Centre has been displaced since the 2017 hurricanes.
Proposals will only be accepted from contractors who are members of CDB-eligible countries, according to the government.
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It’s a good job we didn’t take that UK loan guarantee option! We’ve done so well without it. Never mind, it’s only schools! I wonder why the UK was insisting on strict supervision on how the loan funds would be spent? Hmmm…..?
If the ASPS is demolished then how about combining the 2 schools in one new building on 1 piece of land?
Nepotism? Paid for by what $$? How come the rest of us go no help at all rebuilding our Irma damaged homes? Not here 3 generations both sides of parents? How is the BVI actually run? So this money for only certain people? How long do they plan on holding on to this dough, Irma was 5 years ago. So suspicious.
Investigation into funds already raised for this establishment is required. Namely, over $50,000 in donations for one nights event at the Moorings in addition to the Miss World 2017 delegation contribution. It is time for public scrutiny into these organizations that raised funds in the name of charity with no notice of their disbursement.