The Ministry of Public Works and Environment is pleased to announce the completion of renovation works at the bottom of Dock Hill, commonly referred to by residents as Sandys Dock, located on North Shore Road to the west of Devonshire Dock.
This popular community swimming and recreational site had been closed due to deterioration over time and damage from recent hurricanes, which made it unsafe for public use.
Recognised as a priority project, the Ministry allocated part of the $400,000 set aside in the 2024 Mid-Year Budget Review for island-wide dock improvements to restore Sandys Dock to a safe and attractive standard.
Works included resurfacing the dock and stairs, rebuilding damaged retaining walls, removing invasive vegetation, installing perimeter fencing, and enhancing the area with landscaping, sod, plants, and picnic tables.
While the second section of the retaining wall required additional repairs into July, the dock itself has been in service for the community throughout the summer.
The project was completed under budget, with a final contract value of $71,802.01 – well below the $90,000 initially budgeted.
Minister of Public Works and Environment, the Hon. Jache Adams, JP, MP, said: “I am delighted to see Sandys Dock restored to the standard this community deserves.
“We promised to address the condition of this site, and today we have delivered on that promise – and we have done so under budget. This is an example of the Government delivering tangible results that directly benefit our people.
“Although the site is referred to as ‘Sandys Dock’, it is actually a gathering place for families, a safe space for our young people to swim, and a valued part of the area’s social fabric.
“I thank the area MP and my Ministerial colleague, Owen Darrell, for his advocacy, our Ministry technical staff and engineers for their expertise, Smith Hauling and Excavating for their quality workmanship, and the Department of Parks for its beautification efforts.
“Together, we have preserved a community asset for years to come.”
The Ministry encourages residents to visit the improved site, which now offers a safer, more welcoming space for recreation, swimming, and fishing.