The project, which was introduced to the public by the Recovery and Development Agency (RDA) months ago, was met with some level of resistance, largely on the basis of its aesthetics and unknown final cost.

“Right now, the Minister of Communications and Works and the RDA are basically re-introducing the project to the community,” Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley said at a recent press conference.

The initial design for the project boasted a look which German design firm, INROS Lackner SE, called organic and futuristic. Construction of the terminal was expected to begin in July of this year for completion by November of 2023.

Public Poll: Select a design

A poll has since been set up on the RDA’s website titled, “Three Options, One Choice. West End Ferry Terminal Design”, asking residents to select their favoured design of the three options.

Two new designs – a Classic Modern and a West Indies option – were added to the original futuristic and organic option for residents to vote on a final look for the design.

The RDA said in its post introducing the poll that it was happy about feedback received on the project during public consultations held in February.

The agency said the primary concern focused on the aesthetics of the building and noted that it now wished to hear from a wider cross-section of the BVI community and get feedback from as many voices as possible in the process.

The internal layout of the building, the agency stated, has received feedback from key stakeholders and the majority of their requirements have been met.

In the meantime, Premier Wheatley said there was a discussion about the design under the previous Premier, Andrew Fahie, and the government has now chosen to reopen that conversation. “Once we’ve selected a design, we can move forward,” Dr Wheatley stated.

Funding

Dr Wheatley said there is approximately $12 million available through the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) to fund the project.

Premier Wheatley was unable to confirm at the time whether the German firm was paid for the previous design that was not adopted by residents.

The firm was awarded a $1,048,909 contract to provide project design and management services for the rebuild in August of last year.