The first of 320 large concrete caissons – watertight air-filled blocks used in the construction process – have been transported to the site of the new pier in Little Bay.
Deliveries will continue to be made from the manufacturing site in Piper’s Pond on a near daily basis, and the journey is likely to cause some disruptions on the roads.
The trucks carrying the caissons will drive along Robert W Griffith Drive, turn left at Little Bay roundabout and head to Montserrat Port Authority – a journey of five to ten minutes.
“Once the caisson production rate increases, more information would be provided to the general public in terms of delays and potential diversions,” a government press release said.
Drivers should avoid parking on the side of the main road heading to the Port Authority near Dre’s Chill Out Spot and the other businesses.
“This is to ensure unimpeded traffic flow for both motorists and caisson transport,” the government added on 21 March.
They should also drive with due care and attention when encountering the caissons being taken through Little Bay.
The port development project team has said the contractor will attempt to transport the blocks outside of peak traffic hours, though the occasional exceptions may occur.
“The team is therefore soliciting the support and understanding of the public during the times when the caissons are being transported,” the press release said.
“This necessary disruption has to take place for the project to progress and be delivered to the Montserrat community.”
According to the development team, the caissons will be stacked one on top of the other in two rows.
The next step, after tidying up work is conducted in the water in front of the causeway, will be for construction workers to place temporary caissons into the water to signal the start of the build.
In February, Deputy Premier Samuel Joseph said following several extensions to the Montserrat Port Development Project timeline, the new completion date is 9 May.
