Speaking to Virgin Islands News Online (VINO), Ms Frett said the signs were constructed on Tortola, Anegada and Virgin Gorda and one is currently under construction on Jost van Dyke.

She said the locations were selected based on a number of factors, including in areas where cultural and economic activities can be attracted.

More than just tourism

“It’s actually to get not only the tourism product up to par, but also to see if the locals who may have a little craft… whether its arts of music or the entertainment industry or whatever, they can go into the park around the specific times” that tourists are visiting the area.

Frett recalled that it is often impossible to find a local delicacy such as sugar cake or banana fritters outside of carnival time.

She said the location of the signs will ensure the safety of tourists, encourage economic activities and cultural events as well as become a focal point for photo opportunities.

She stressed that the location of the signs will also encourage the constant maintenance of the area.

Controversy over location

Despite backlash about the locations of the signs, she added that a lot of thought went into deciding the locations including areas that are easily accessible by taxis and by tourists. In addition, the signs have to be built on crown lands.

She said areas like hillsides and cliffs were avoided to prevent tourists from having to climb, with a warning that persons are not supposed to climb the signs.

The first sign was erected on Virgin Gorda. There is also one in Anegada at the Anegada Gardens, one on Tortola in Queen Elizabeth II Park, and one currently under construction on Jost van Dyke.

Artists to paint signs

The Project Director said the signs were erected by various construction companies with Virgin Gorda and Anegada signs constructed by Greencrete; the Tortola sign was constructed by KMD construction and the Jost van Dyke sign is being constructed by Alfredo Callwood.

The signs are made of reinforced concrete to protect from Hurricanes and are 5ft High By 8inces thick. The signs will also be painted.

She said the location were selected based on a number of factors, including in areas where cultural and economic can be attracted.

The Project Director noted that location of the signs will ensure the safety of tourists and well as encourage economic activities and cultural events and well as become a focal point for photo opportunities.