by Michael Bascombe
ST GEORGE’S, Grenada, November 30, 2011 - China have indicated an
interest in constructing a new track and field stadium in Grenada.
This was hinted by Chinese
Ambassador to Grenada, Mr Xu Jianguo during the recent signing of the Second
Phase of Technical Cooperation for the Cricket Stadium.
In reiterating China’s commitment
to Grenada’s development, Ambassador Xu indicated that a Chinese technical
team, expected on the island before the end of the year, will make a
determination on the best option.
The Grenada Government has been
criticised for its tardy response in rebuilding the facility which was
partially destroyed by Hurricane Ivan in 2004.
However, Minister for Youth
Empowerment and Sports, Mr Patrick Simmons said that projects like these call
for tremendous resources and planning, noting that efforts were made as early
as 2008 to reconstruct the stadium facility. Mr Simmons expressed appreciation
to China on behalf of the Government and people of Grenada.
“Based on preliminary discussions
there are indications that the Chinese may demolish the track and field and
football stadium and rebuild a new facility,” Simmons said. The new facility
will include 8,000 permanent seats and an additional 2,000 temporary seats
which could be relocated to other playing fields around the island.
He said that the existing facility will be
unavailable for cultural and sporting activities including the annual Secondary
Schools' Athletics Championships when construction work starts in the New Year.
"The safety of the athletes and spectators
are paramount so a determination has to be made on the best possible venue to
accommodate these championships," he said.
The Grenadian Minister also joined Ambassador Xu
in signing the Handing-Over Certificate of First Phase of the Technical
Cooperation Agreement. The first phase included the treating and repainting of
the metal structure of the stadium as well as the training of locals on
maintenance of the facility.
The second phase which will be for a period of
two years will include the lighting of the cricket stadium as well as ongoing
maintenance.
Ambassador Xu also handed over some computers to
the Ministry of Youth Empowerment and Sports.
No comments:
Post a Comment