Software to be introduced to manage BVI’s recreational facilities

The BVI Recreation Trust will be introducing a management software through which persons can apply to access facilities under the responsibility of the Trust.

Sports & Culture Minister Dr Natalio Wheatley made that announcement in a recent sitting of the House of Assembly where he gave an update on the recreational facilities in the territory.

He said: “The Trust is now finalising registration for a software programme to ensure a more effective management and maintenance programme for stakeholders’ use of its facilities.”

Continuing on the subject of maintenance, the minister said a field schedule has been implemented where two teams are now visiting the facilities regularly.

Trust has also purchased a number of much needed equipment for the maintenance of the facilities on Tortola, including two lawnmowers, four bush cutters, and a pick-up truck.

“The Trust is presently working on obtaining another vehicle to be assigned to Virgin Gorda. At least one other vehicle is needed to enable the Trust to better manage the maintenance of its 26 facilities, but this will only be possible with the provision of additional funding,” Dr Wheatley stated.

As for the facilities themselves, the minister said the Trust is presently completing major renovation works at the Walters’ Park on Virgin Gorda.

And during this quarter of 2021, the Trust will also be working in close collaboration with other partners, Dr Wheatley said.

“The Walter’s Park, East End Park and Benjamin Romney Park will be done in partnership with the National Parks Trust. The A.O. Shirley Recreation Ground, the E. Walwyn Brewley Softball Field, the Band Stand and the Long Bush Playground will be done in partnership with the City Manager,” the minister stated.

“The Trust is working closely with the Ministry of Education on works at the Sea Cow’s Bay Basketball Court to address some safety matters, restore the restroom and cleanup the area for more parking. Meanwhile, a possible donor to assist with the perimeter fencing at the Greenland field has been identified and the Trust will soon be embarking on the upkeep of the Millicent Mercer Softball Field,” Dr Wheatley added.

He continued: “I also acknowledge the work being done by our partner, the Ministry of Transportation, Works, and Utilities, and the Public Works Department in cleaning up the Brewers Bay Park … the Trust has been leading the charge on behalf of the Ministry to meet with various stakeholders for discussions on the restoration of the pavilion at the A. O. Shirley Recreation Ground. A draft outline in accordance with the collective agreement is being formulated with the Recovery and Development Agency (RDA) to get this process tabled for a phased completion.”