Parliament Approves Loan Drawdown to Complete Friars Hill Road Works
The Antigua and Barbuda Parliament has approved a resolution to draw down the remaining $4.43 million from a Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) loan to complete and rectify works on Friars Hill Road and the Sir George Walter Highway.
The motion, presented by Prime Minister Gaston Browne, seeks to address lingering infrastructure issues and defects left unresolved by the original contractor.
Prime Minister Browne outlined the challenges faced with the original contractor, Bahamas Hot Mix, which failed to complete the project satisfactorily. Defects, including recurring potholes in the Woods area, required Public Works to undertake temporary repairs.
Browne also noted that the contractor has taken the government to arbitration in the United Kingdom, seeking damages equivalent to the full contract value of $14 million.
The Prime Minister explained that the bidding process, overseen by the CDB under regional guidelines, limited the government’s ability to directly select the contractor.
He highlighted concerns about contractors exploiting contractual loopholes, calling it a recurring issue for many developing countries.
Members of the opposition questioned whether the remaining funds would be sufficient to address both the uncompleted works and the necessary remedial measures. They also sought clarification on steps being taken to prevent similar issues in future projects.
Browne assured Parliament that assessments suggest the remaining funds will suffice to complete the works. He acknowledged the arbitration process poses ongoing challenges but reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing infrastructure needs.
With the resolution passed, the government will move forward to complete sidewalks, curbs, and drainage systems on both Friars Hill Road and the Sir George Walter Highway.
The project, originally funded by the UK Caribbean Infrastructure Fund, aims to deliver long-awaited road improvements despite the setbacks.
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