BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – IN response to recent incidents of vandalism at sports facilities, the government is considering implementing stricter security measures across major grounds on the island.
Sports Minister Samal Duggins hinted at these plans during an interview with SKNVIbes Sports, where he discussed ongoing upgrades at the Conaree Sporting Complex, including the construction of a new pavilion.
The Conaree facility, now a hub for regional and international competitions, has faced significant challenges in 2024. Last month, two vehicles were caught drifting on the field after breaching the perimeter fence, causing extensive damage to the playing surface. This act of vandalism drew public condemnation from the Conaree Football Club, which stated:
"We wish to send a strong message to the perpetrators that such acts will not be taken lightly. Persons should be reminded that this very same playing field is the home of the SOL Island Auto Conaree Football Club, one of the pillars of the Conaree community."
Earlier this year, another incident occurred during the Cricket West Indies Regional 4-Day Competition, further underscoring the need for enhanced security measures.
Minister Duggins emphasized that the upgrades at the Conaree Sporting Complex are comprehensive and aim to address such issues.
"We are going to be revamping the entire football area, the complex, including the actual football field and the surrounding fencing. We are actually doing some work right now in preparing new gates, because we would have seen where persons would have come into the facilities and would have been more or less creating damage to the current facility, and we want to be able to secure that," the minister explained.
Once completed, the Conaree Sporting Complex will feature a fully restored football field and enhanced security measures, ensuring the facility meets the highest standards for community and regional sports. These upgrades aim to boost the level of sports in the Conaree community and across the nation.
