Major development for Region 6 sports facilities

― infrastructural works slated for Scottsburg and Bermine Grounds, Rose Hall Town Sports Complex.

DPI, Guyana, Tuesday, March 19, 2019

Several sports facilities in East Berbice-Corentyne, Region Six, are expected to receive major upgrades in 2019. This was disclosed by Director of Sports, Christopher Jones, during a recent visit to the ancient county.

Jones said from the $35,000,000 allocated to the region via the 2019 national budget, infrastructural works will commence soon at the Scottsburg and Bermine sports grounds and at the Rose Hall Town Sports Complex.

The Sports Director noted that his department is currently awaiting the bill of quantities from the regional engineer, for works to be done at the various locations. Once that is achieved, Jones said the warrant for payments will be dispatched to the Regional Democratic Council (RDC).

“Essentially the initiative is to have an open space that is complete with lights and the erection of flag pole for the hosting of the national flag come 2020. But of course, thereafter, the grounds will be accessible for all sports disciplines.”

Speaking specifically about the Bermine sports ground, at Republic Road, New Amsterdam, which was neglected by the previous administration, Jones emphasised that before 2019 concludes, Berbicians will be able to utilise a spanking new facility.

The move by the Government to construct an international synthetic Track in Region Six is already making waves in the town of New Amsterdam. The eight-lane, 400-metre facility is being constructed by German company BSW Regupol.

Additionally, Jones stressed that these facilities, when completed, must be maintained by residents within the community. “Over the year ground enhancements have been conducted across the country, but the issue is the maintenance of the facilities… it is enshrined in the Local Government laws that the municipality, NDC or RDC has the responsibility for the maintenance of all grounds, playing space et cetera,” he disclosed.

Since taking office in 2015 the Coalition Government has upgraded several sporting facilities to international standards including the Guyana National Stadium and the National Track and Field Centre at Leonora. Over $70Million has been spent to enhance community grounds across the country with several being were outfitted with floodlights to facilitate use at nights.

The ground enhancement project which was established in 2015 is aimed at ensuring that sports facilities, across Guyana, function effectively and provide a platform for the development of athletes.

Kellon Rover.

Image: The Department of Public Information.