Prime Minister Gaston Browne has directed government agencies to strengthen supervision of contractors, conduct more rigorous inspections and ensure greater accountability as infrastructure improvement works continue across St. John’s ahead of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).

The directive followed an October 14 briefing by the Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) and the Ministry of Works on the progress of utility upgrades and road rehabilitation in the capital.

According to the Cabinet report, Browne stressed that the significant public investment in the projects must produce work that meets acceptable standards.

He instructed officials to identify and address outstanding problems promptly, warning against avoidable delays that could disrupt the road rehabilitation schedule.

Representatives of APUA and the Ministry of Works reported that communication systems were already in place, including regular coordination among contractors and technical personnel.

However, Cabinet called for those arrangements to be strengthened through daily monitoring, closer supervision and immediate intervention whenever problems threaten progress.

The Ministry of Works was also encouraged to begin road rehabilitation in areas where utility installations have been completed and the necessary clearance has been granted, rather than waiting for all utility works to conclude.

The Prime Minister linked the urgency of the projects to the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, scheduled for November 1–4, when Antigua and Barbuda will host international delegations and other visitors.

He nevertheless emphasised that the improvements must deliver lasting benefits to residents, businesses and road users in St. John’s beyond the international gathering.

The Cabinet report did not identify contractors responsible for any deficiencies or indicate whether penalties or other disciplinary measures were being considered.

The latest instructions place additional responsibility on APUA, the Ministry of Works and their contractors to coordinate activities, maintain construction standards and minimise disruptions as the government seeks to accelerate improvements throughout the capital.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: PM Browne Demands Stricter Oversight of St. John’s Roadworks Ahead of CHOGM.