Antigua and Barbuda’s oldest multi-purpose venue – the Antigua Recreation Grounds – may be in for a major upgrade in time for Carnival 2022.
The matter is now under serious consideration at the highest level of government.
A recent report indicated that after two years of inactivity due to the coronavirus pandemic, the ARG is currently in serious disrepair. According to the report, the popular venue for carnival, football, cricket and other social and cultural events now ‘requires significant upgrading’.
An informed source said Works Minister, Lennox Weston, has agreed that his ministry will examine the state of the ARG and make every effort to ready it for this year’s carnival festivities.
It was noted that the Double Decker ARG Stand, which had been previously condemned, is likely to be removed within a few weeks, creating new space for special seating during Carnival.
“Contemplation is being given to razing the Sir Vivian Richards Stand in order to make way for a superior modern facility. The food vendors within the ARG will soon move into the completed temporary space, directly outside the ARG. APUA will next install running water and proper disposal for the runoff,” the source added.
The ARG has been the home of carnival for several decades.
Meanwhile, as planning for carnival moves into top gear, the government is again urging all revellers to vaccinate themselves, or be prepared to be tested for COVID-19, before participating in troupes or other group activities.
