Noise Pollution Expected as Piling Work Begins for New Cruise Terminal
Residents near the Heritage Quay area have been advised to expect increased noise levels as construction on the new cruise terminal at the Fifth Berth enters its piling phase.
Speaking on The Browne and Browne Show on Pointe FM, Gasper George, General Manager of Global Ports Holding Antigua, confirmed that a 30-foot piling rig has arrived in Antigua and is set to begin operations from March 17.
“In the next week, the construction team will commence the piling of 270 piles, each being driven about 10 meters deep into the ground,” Mr George said. “One can anticipate a bit of noise and some disruptions to the usual comfort level.”
The piling phase is expected to take between 60 and 90 days, with work continuing through mid-year.
Prime Minister Gaston Browne acknowledged the potential impact on nearby communities, particularly in Point and Villa, and emphasized the importance of keeping residents informed.
“I think one of the reasons Mr George is here today is to alert residents about the noise pollution they may experience,” Mr Browne said. “The people of Point and Villa are closest to the construction site, so it’s important to engage them directly.”
To address community concerns, town hall meetings will be held in the coming weeks to provide residents with detailed project timelines and mitigation measures.
“Our Communications and Marketing team will be engaging residents to ensure they are aware of what’s happening, how long it will last, and what steps are being taken to minimize disruptions,” Mr George said.
The construction team has also pledged to expedite the piling work to reduce prolonged noise exposure for those living and working nearby.
Despite the temporary inconvenience, the government has assured residents that the project will bring long-term economic benefits, including new jobs and business opportunities for locals.
“The Fifth Berth project will significantly improve our cruise tourism product,” Mr George said. “Once completed, it will enhance Antigua’s standing as a major cruise destination.”
The terminal is scheduled for completion by October 2025, with the full upland development project set to finish by June 2026.
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Lord Help us!
First the Boody Alley Project and now this
They havent said a word to us!
Where do they get these foreigners from. The man said he’s a Lucian, NO Antiguans can manage a cruise port?
We the people have not been consulted on this project
A little noise for progress is okay, just hurry up JACK
Not like there is a quiet method for slamming piles 30 feet into the ground! The locals there have heard this type of construction noise during previous projects. I think the terminal being scheduled for completion by October 2025 is optimistic but I wish them luck!