Work ongoing for visitor facilities, Premier says

Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley said work remains ongoing in relation to the readiness of visitor facilities in the territory ahead of the upcoming tourist season.

Residents had previously been clamouring for a facility at Trellis Bay on Beef Island, where it was noted that commuters were made to seek shade and shelter at nearby business establishments in order to avoid the unfavourable weather elements.

“I know there is work ongoing. I would have to get a specific update from the Director of Tourism; also the Ports Authority,” Premier Wheatley told reporters at a recent press conference.

According to Dr Wheatley, monies have already been budgeted for the various facilities and his government expects to see the work taking place in short order.

During the press conference, Premier Wheatley said his government was taking certain steps to ensure the economy becomes more tourism-led.

“First, as Tourism Minister, I will be discussing with the new Chair of the BVI Tourist Board the importance of a short-term plan to guide the growth and development of the sector over the next two years while a tourism master plan is developed to take our tourism product to the next level,” the Premier said.

He said the government, in the meantime, is working diligently to improve areas such as airlift and to enhance the territory’s tourism product.

The Premier also announced at the time that he was moving the Culture portfolio over to the Premier’s Office where it is expected to be integrated with the Tourism portfolio.