Residents of Davy Hill were given an update this week on the government’s plans for a new multi-functional sports court in their community.
The Programme Management Office and the Davy Hill Community Action Group hosted a public meeting at the Davy Hill Community Centre on 6 March to go over the project details.
Office head Martin Parlett shared the scope, design and timeline with attendees, and responded to their questions.
He said the project will deliver “a new, fit-for-purpose, advanced technology, multi-functional sports court” located near to the community centre.
The design stage is now complete, Parlett said during the event which was streamed live online, adding that the next step is enabling works.
This will consist of flattening land, adding retaining walls, removing obstructions, and working with Montserrat Utilities Limited to connect utilities.
Then the office will purchase the court and ship it to Montserrat along with lighting and basketball hoops, before adding fencing and handing it over to the community.
Parlett said several ministries have been involved in the project so far and there has been a lot of stakeholder engagement.
Advanced technology
The office head described the design of the 80 by 54 foot court as being “pretty traditional” with terrace step seating.
“What’s different about this though from a traditional sports court is actually very advanced technology that we’re using,” he said.
The professional standard playing surface will be created using PowerGame+ technology through supplier Sport Court.
“Rather than it being one single installation, it’s actually made up of little tiles,” Parlett explained, adding that it is very durable and long lasting.
Other benefits are that it is safe and reduces injuries, it is very low maintenance, it is UV resistant, weather resistant and has a 15-year warranty, the office head said.
Once built, the court can be marked up to be used for basketball, volleyball, tennis, badminton or other sports.
Ready in six months
Parlett said the next steps are working with the Davy Hill community to make it work for them, selecting the colour of the court, followed by the remaining stages of the build.
He expects the project to be complete “optimistically within the next four to six months”.
Attending the meeting on behalf of the government were Deputy Premier Samuel Joseph, and Crenston Buffonge, Minister of Agriculture, Lands, Housing and the Environment.
Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, Charliena White, Anne Thomas, chair of the Davy Hill Community Action Group, and project lead Maudell were also in attendance.
Payment for the project is coming out of the Volcano Relief Fund, established in law to help people who have suffered loss from volcanic activity.
