United Kingdom Increases Financing for Port Advancement in Montserrat
The Little Bay Port Development Project in Montserrat, a joint initiative between the UK and the Caribbean Development Bank, has received an additional £28.3 million in grant funding, bringing the total investment to almost £350 million. This project, which started in June 2022 after several delays, aims to rebuild and revitalise Montserrat following devastating hurricanes and volcanic eruptions in recent decades.
The objectives of the Little Bay Port Development Project include establishing a modern port facility, developing a new town, and supporting Montserrat’s economic recovery and resilience through infrastructure development. The new port and town at Little Bay on Montserrat’s northwest coast are intended to replace the destroyed Plymouth area affected by volcanic activity.
The impact on the economy, trade, and tourism is expected to be significant. Improved port facilities will enhance trade capacities by allowing larger vessels and more efficient cargo handling, reducing import/export costs and turnaround times. The new port supports expansion in tourism by increasing cruise and passenger ship access, promoting visitor arrivals to the island’s less affected areas. The development is a catalyst for economic diversification and job creation in construction, logistics, and services linked to port activities and tourism.
The revitalisation of the government and business centers at Little Bay offers a stable environment for investment and growth, helping Montserrat recover from volcanic devastation and hurricanes. This project is a core part of Montserrat’s long-term strategy to transform its economic base through improved infrastructure and increased connectivity, with the UK’s grant funding playing a crucial role in realizing these goals.
The Little Bay Port Development Project also promotes the participation of women, youth, and persons with disabilities in the transportation, tourism, and infrastructure sectors. It is expected to provide employment opportunities for skilled and unskilled men and women.
The UK sees this project as an investment in Montserrat's future. The Minister responsible for the Overseas Territories, Amanda Milling MP, stated that this increased support is a demonstration of the UK's continued commitment to the Caribbean and to UK Overseas Territories. Safeguards are in place to ensure UKaid funds are spent as intended in the design and delivery of the project.
The Caribbean Development Bank is grateful for the UK’s strong commitment to Montserrat and the Caribbean. The Little Bay Port Development Project is delivered through the Government of Montserrat and the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB). The project will provide a safe, climate-resilient harbour, improve accessibility to the island, and expand economic, trade, and tourism opportunities. The project now totals almost £350 million, with £7.1 million from the European Union through the 11th European Development Fund, and includes construction of an offshore jetty, new access road, dredging works, and slope stabilisation design. The project is expected to be completed by 2024.
Sports can thrive in the new town being developed as part of the Little Bay Port Development Project, providing recreational activities for locals and tourists alike. The improved infrastructure and increased connectivity, including the construction of an offshore jetty, will enable easier transportation of sports equipment and facilitate more sporting events on the island.
