Plan in place to assess repairs for dock at Alexandra Battery
The Government is to commence a formal assessment to determine the work, funds and time required to fix a public dock damaged during the 2025 hurricane season.
The structure is located at Alexandra Battery in St George's and is formally known as Buildings Bay Dock.
Area MP Renée Ming told The Royal Gazette that she is committed to “actively advocating” on behalf of her constituents for repairs to damage sustained during Hurricane Imelda in October to be prioritised — and that she would provide repair schedule updates to the public.
TNN ran a story in December reporting that residents were expressing growing concerns about the condition of the wharf, which had suffered “significant” damage.
Jaché Adams, the Minister of Public Works and Environment, was reported to have said an assessment had been completed and that a determination would be made on repairs, costs and timelines.
However, a spokesman for the ministry said this week that only an initial assessment had been carried out and that a more formal assessment would come next before any determination was made.
The spokesman told the Gazette: “The ministry is aware of its condition and has included Buildings Bay Dock within its dock and key maintenance programme.
“An initial assessment was completed in October. The ministry will soon be conducting a formal assessment of the dock to determine the scope of repairs, associated costs and timelines.”
Mr Adams told the Gazette: “The ministry is managing a number of dock and marine infrastructure projects across the island, including the HM Customs Dock, and is sequencing this work as part of a planned, island-wide maintenance programme.”
Ms Ming added: “I have been working closely with the ministry to ensure this area is properly assessed and restored.
“Following my initial request for repairs, the ministry conducted a preliminary assessment.
“I have since been advised by the minister that a secondary, more detailed engineering assessment is now required to determine the precise scope of works and to establish a definitive repair timeline.
“My primary concern remains the safety of all users.
“Buildings Bay is a cherished gem for both residents and visitors. Its proximity to Alexandra Battery also makes it a popular stop for those exploring our historic landmarks.
“As part of St George’s Unesco World Heritage site, it is vital that our amenities are maintained to the highest possible standard.
“I am actively advocating for these repairs to be prioritised so the beach can be fully functional as soon as possible. Once the ministry confirms the estimated repair schedule, I will provide a further update to keep the public fully informed.
“In the meantime, we encourage everyone to continue enjoying the beauty of St George’s but to please do so with caution while we await these necessary structural repairs.”
