Government House set for completion and reopening early next year

Published
Government House set for completion and reopening early next year
Government House (photo by World Monuments Fund)

Restoration on the historic Government House has been taking place for a few years but according to top officials, that work is expected to be completed and reopening taking place early next year.

Director of Historic Preservation for the Heritage Trust Dr. Gabriella Howell provided an update on the ongoing works while taking the Governor General Sr Rodney Williams on a tour to see the progress of the repairs.

“We are on track to be completed by the beginning of January. We will be opening our doors very, very soon…the work that is presently being done is to finish off the main house interior,” Dr. Howell told state media.

Launched by HRH Prince Harry in November 2016, the project is unique in showing how an operational government building can be opened to the public for a range of multiple uses.

The house has served as the residence of the head of state since the late 18th century.

There will be an art gallery for local artists, teaching space for school children, a café, a bookshop and a living museum of the history of the house and the country – even a therapeutic gardening programme.

The new area is expected to be opened in April 2026.

This story was first published by Antigua News on November 27, 2025: antigua.news/2025/11/27/government-house-set-for-completion-and-reopening-early-next-year. © 2025 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.

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Comments (9)

  • Tromos November 27, 2025, 11:59 AM

    Hope the reopening includes proper public access. It’s a historic site, not just a photo backdrop.
    Reply
  • Yephsue November 27, 2025, 2:26 PM

    It’s great to finally see this project nearing completion. Government House is such an important part of our history, and opening it to the public will add real value to heritage tourism. Looking forward to seeing the transformation.
    Reply
  • Concerned November 27, 2025, 5:20 PM

    Every year is ‘almost finish’ with this project. Government House turning into one long construction story. Let’s hope this January deadline finally means something.
    Reply
  • Tromos November 27, 2025, 8:00 PM

    Government House has so much potential. This could really elevate tourism if managed properly.
    Reply
  • Informed citizen November 27, 2025, 8:54 PM

    If the project stays on schedule, it’ll be nice to see the building back in use after such a long closure.
    Reply
  • Juju Bee November 27, 2025, 10:37 PM

    It’s about time. Seems like this project took forever
    Reply
  • Ddd November 28, 2025, 11:10 AM

    Kudos to Dr. Howell and her team. Heritage work is slow and expensive, but preserving our history is worth it.
    Reply
  • Qill November 28, 2025, 11:19 AM

    Kudos to Dr. Howell and her team. Heritage work is slow and expensive, but preserving our history is worth it.
    Reply
  • Unruly One November 28, 2025, 6:21 PM

    Once it opens, they should use the space for cultural tours, school visits, and local showcases… not just fancy events.
    Reply

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