The Chateau land, acquired by the BVI Ports Authority since 2020, is now being prepared for major civil and marine improvements on Virgin Gorda. Photo: Facebook

The former Chateau building site in Virgin Gorda is advancing into a new rehabilitation phase as the British Virgin Islands Ports Authority prepares the waterfront property to serve as a dedicated docking facility for cruise ship tenders. Photo: Facebook

During a recent site visit, BVIPA Security Manager Dave Smith outlined the operational scope alongside the Minister for Communications and Works and Ninth District Representative Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley and project officials. Photo: Facebook

Contractual arrangements have been signed to repair and restore the dock infrastructure, which suffered heavy wear and damage over the past years. Photo: Facebook

Site transformation & waterfront plans

The structure, owned by the BVI Ports Authority since 2020, has been demolished to clear the grounds for major civil and marine improvements. 

The project aims to reroute arriving cruise ship tenders directly to this dedicated site rather than directing vessel traffic into the local marina. 

During a recent site visit, BVIPA Security Manager Dave Smith, speaking alongside the Minister for Communications and Works, Honourable Kye M. Rymer (R5), and Ninth District Representative Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley and project officials, outlined the operational scope. 

Contractual arrangements have been signed to repair and restore the dock infrastructure, which has suffered heavy wear and damage over the past years.

Passenger staging & security standards

Plans for the cleared property include erecting a temporary reception terminal to safely process arriving and departing cruise visitors. 

According to the BVIPA Security Manager, the facility will also feature a dedicated transport staging zone where tour buses can collect and return passengers smoothly. 

He added that the site will accommodate direct international cruise transfers, and port management is designing the location to meet rigorous international maritime security standards. 

A secure access checkpoint will manage passenger flows, vehicle dispatching, and perimeter safety while easing congestion around other commercial jetties during peak vessel days, he stated. 

Town Hall Meeting

Further project specifics, design timelines, and related district updates will be presented directly to the public during an upcoming town hall meeting.

The Ninth District community meeting is scheduled for Monday, August 31, at 5:30 PM at the St Mary’s Episcopal Church Hall. Residents and community stakeholders are encouraged to attend the session to review this waterfront development and discuss ongoing local public works.