ROADTOWN Tortola BVI, April 11th, 2012   –  In strengthening the Territory’s tourism market and product and improving the quality of life for all, the Government of the Virgin Islands is presently spearheading several projects to see to it that industry offerings are enhanced and developed to address the needs of both visitors and locals.

One such project is the revitalisation of the Crafts Alive Market, a joint initiative by the Premier’s Office and the Ministry of Communications and Works.In an interview with the Department of Information and Public Relations, Tourism Liaison Officer in the Premier’s Office, Mrs. Janice Braithwaite-Edwards said the project will be a centre for commercial and cultural activities for visitors and locals alike, explaining, “The new plans that have been proposed for the revitalisation project are only part of the Cruise Tourism programme that will encompass the Cruise Pier, waterfront and the entire bay side of the Wickham’s Cay area, to create a beehive of activities for our visitors and locals.”

The tourism liaison officer added, “We want to create an attraction in the centre of Road Town where persons can engage in commercial activities, share a space to relax and learn more about the Virgin Islands’ people and culture.”

Regarding the specific works to begin in May, Mrs. Braithwaite-Edwards explained that there will be the erection of an amphitheatre for performances, renovations to the existing buildings, the addition of new buildings to house vendors and the upgrade of aesthetics.

Mrs. Braithwaite-Edwards said that plans also include the facilitation of cultural demonstrations and performances in the form of fish pot making, preparation of local cuisine and cultural expressions like song, dance or poetry.

The revitalisation of the Crafts Alive Market, which was announced at a public meeting hosted by the Ministry of Communications and Works on Monday, April 2, is expected to be completed in time for the 2012-2013 tourist season. The meeting was held to inform the vendoring public of Government’s strategic plans to improve the Territory’s tourism product.

At that same meeting, the relocation of the vendors operating outside the Cruise Ship pier to the new Crafts Alive Market was announced, and to which Mrs. Braithwaite-Edwards commented, “The reaction by vendors was very positive. I envision a commercial centre that will be economically viable for all parties involved.”

Interested persons are invited to another public consultation on April 16 at the Road Town Ferry Terminal where both the Crafts Alive Market and terminal projects will be further discussed. For more information, contact the Premier’s Office at 468-3701 extension 2152.

The revitalisation of the Crafts Alive Market is aligned with Government’s vision for the improvement of the Virgin Islands’ tourism product, which it recognises is critical to ensuring maximisation of revenue and securing a higher standard of living for the people of this Territory.

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