Melford Nicholas, the minister responsible for Utilities has provided Cabinet with a comprehensive update on the ongoing nationwide water infrastructure improvement works being undertaken by the Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA).

The projects form part of the government’s continued efforts to modernize the island’s water distribution system and enhance reliability for households and businesses.

According to the Minister Nicholas, APUA’s current works include extensive re-piping projects, the reactivation of reservoirs, and the upgrading of storage tanks in key communities.

Among the notable developments:
Lower Buckleys Reservoir Restored: After being offline for six years, the Lower Buckleys Reservoir is now fully operational, boasting a storage capacity of approximately 600,000 gallons. The restored facility will serve communities in Swetes, Follys, and Liberta, providing much-needed support to the southern water network.

Pigeon Point and Pattersons Expansion: Expansion works are progressing at both the Pigeon Point and Pattersons desalination plants, with the goal of doubling production capacity to 500,000 gallons per day. This upgrade aims to meet the increasing demand from the booming yachting and hospitality sectors in the St. Paul area.

System Integration for St. Paul: Plans are also underway to integrate the Pattersons Reservoir into the broader water transmission and distribution system for the parish of St. Paul.

Montuella Re-piping Next in Line: Retail distribution piping works in Montuella will begin immediately following the completion of re-piping activities in Cedar Valley, continuing the systematic modernization of the island’s pipe network.

New Reservoirs at Wink-Eye Hill: Construction is planned for two new concrete reservoirs at Wink-Eye Hill, New Winthropes, as part of APUA’s hydraulic improvement programme for northern Antigua.

The Minister further advised that APUA continues to work closely with the Ministry of Works to coordinate water system upgrades alongside road repair and redevelopment projects. Assessments are ongoing for several major routes, including All Saints Road, stretching from the Townhouse Junction to English Harbour.

Before the next Cabinet meeting, the Minister has committed to presenting a definitive timeline for the commencement of APUA’s re-piping works along the All Saints Road corridor—one of the most significant upcoming phases of the national water improvement programme.