Minister outlines upgrades to Paget, Darrell’s Islands
A new camping facility on Paget Island can accommodate up to 12 campers, MPs heard today.
Owen Darrell, the Minister of Tourism, Transport, Culture and Sport, said the renovated three-bedroom cottage includes a full kitchen and private bathroom and complements the site’s existing camping facilities, that can hold up to 50 campers.
Mr Darrell explained: “With the addition of this cottage, Paget Island will no longer operate strictly as a single-use island
“Instead, it will now be able to accommodate multiple groups simultaneously, significantly improving access and maximising the use of this unique public space.”
The minister also informed MPs that washrooms and showers at Darrell’s Island have been upgraded and now include wheelchair access.
He added: “[Darrell’s] Island has grown from two rustic camping areas to seven unique rustic sites, each named to honour Darrell’s Island’s historic role in the early days of trans-Atlantic aviation.”
The number of campsites available across the Government’s islands programme has doubled from six to 12.
Mr Darrell told MPs: “These improvements respond directly to the feedback we received from the public, many of whom expressed the need for greater availability, improved facilities and more flexible options for different types of groups wishing to utilise the islands.”
Dwayne Robinson, the Shadow Minister of Tourism, Transport and Culture, asked if the rental fees for the islands would increase as a result of these upgrades.
The $60 fee for outdoor campsites is unchanged for Ports, Paget and Darrell’s Islands, but that figure represents an increase of $20 for White’s Island, and the dormitory fee is $85, up from the previous cost of $60.
Members of the public can book camping reservations for Darrell’s, White’s, Paget and Ports Islands via sportsandrec.bm from April 6.
Mr Darrell said: “The online system will allow residents to view availability, review facility options and submit booking requests in a more efficient and convenient manner.
“These improvements reflect the Government’s continued investment in recreation and our commitment to ensuring that Bermudians have access to safe, well-maintained and meaningful outdoor spaces.”
• To see Mr Darrell’s full statement, see “Related Media”
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