Antigua and Barbuda, Thursday August 22, 2024 – The National Parks Authority (NPA) has entered the second phase of its comprehensive enhancement project at the Falmouth Harbour landing facility, a crucial hub serving both cruise ships and cruising yachts. This initiative is a strategic response to the area’s rapid economic growth and the pressing need to strengthen infrastructure and security.
As part of this project, the NPA is focused on establishing a sterile area at the Falmouth Harbour landing facility to ensure compliance with SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) protocols. This area will be subject to security measures, mitigating potential risks and maintaining the secure status of vessels as they proceed to subsequent destinations.
Beyond these safety enhancements, the NPA is advancing additional improvements aimed at better accommodating cruisers at anchor. In addition to the newly constructed dock, there will be improvements to drainage systems, and ongoing landscaping efforts. These enhancements will significantly benefit the local community, including fishers and other users, who will gain access to an upgraded docking facility.
Parking arrangements at the Falmouth Harbour landing facility will also be improved, with newly paved areas and enhanced lighting designed to support local businesses and the broader community. These developments underscore the NPA’s commitment to fostering economic opportunities and creating a strong, vibrant community in the Falmouth Harbour area.
Ann-Marie Martin, Parks Commissioner of the NPA, expressed her enthusiasm for the project: “The National Parks Authority continues its efforts to upgrade the Park and its surrounding areas. Our goal is not only to enhance the infrastructure but to uplift the entire community by providing a safer, more welcoming environment for all. The improvements at Falmouth Harbour will benefit residents, businesses, and visitors alike, fostering economic growth and strengthening our vibrant community.”
The NPA remains steadfast in its mission to drive progress and ensure the continued development of the area while preserving its rich cultural and historical heritage.
ABOUT The National Parks Authority
The National Parks Authority (NPA) is a Statutory Corporation constituted under the National Parks Act Cap. 290 (1984) of the Laws of Antigua and Barbuda. The Act mandates that the NPA is self-financing and operates as a not-for-profit organization in order to preserve, protect, manage and develop the natural environment, heritage, architecture, and culture of the Nelson’s Dockyard National Park. Since 2016, the historical core, the Georgian era Royal Navy Dockyard and surrounding British military sites have been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in recognition of the long and successful stewardship and management of the NPA.