Performing Arts Centre on Track for September Handover Ahead of CHOGM

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Minister Turner and members of the local creative community toured the facility on today

Renovation and retrofitting work at the Performing Arts Centre on High Street remain on schedule, with the completed facility expected to be handed over to the Government by September 30.

Minister of Social and Urban Transformation Hon. Rawdon Turner provided Cabinet with the latest progress report on the project, which is being prepared to host the Opening Ceremony and meetings associated with the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in November.

Turner reported that significant work has been completed throughout the building and that the project team remains confident of meeting the established deadline.

The upper-level seating area, which will accommodate approximately 200 people, is being prepared for carpeting and the installation of newly arrived seats.

Ceiling lighting has already been installed, while work is continuing on access areas, including the stairs.

Progress has also been recorded in the main hall, where ceiling, lighting and carpeting works are advancing.

Bathrooms and associated areas have been substantially prepared. Tiling, ceilings and lighting have been completed, while fixtures, partitions and doors remain to be installed.

Work is also progressing on the facility’s technical infrastructure, including its lighting, sound, information technology and audio-visual systems.

Large LED screens have already been shipped, while arrangements are being finalised for the specialised lighting required at the venue.

The project team has identified completion of the building itself as the immediate priority to ensure it is ready to accommodate CHOGM activities.

Cabinet welcomed the progress and stressed the importance of completing the renovation and retrofitting programme within the required timeframe.

The Government will continue to monitor the project as work advances towards the anticipated September 30 handover.

This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2026/08/13/performing-arts-centre-on-track-for-september-handover-ahead-of-chogm. © 2026 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.

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Cory Wayland

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Cory Wayland is the Social Media Co-ordinator at Antigua.News, where he manages digital content strategy, audience engagement, and real-time news publications across social platforms. With a keen eye for trending topics and a commitment to factual storytelling, Cory plays a key role in shaping the online voice of Antigua.News.

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Comments (2)

  • Juju Bee August 14, 2026, 9:16 AM

    I wish they would be this diligent on all government projects. See what it says ahead of schedule while some projects years past schedule
    Reply
  • Orie August 15, 2026, 2:07 PM

    Gotta give credit where it’s due, they moved fast on turning that old Deluxe building into something proper… unlike that parking lot from however long up by east bus station…
    Reply

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