Government Misses Performing Arts Centre Deadline With CHOGM One Month Away
A certification issue has delayed the installation of key technical equipment at the 875-seat venue, erasing a month-long preparation window ahead of the Commonwealth summit.
By Cory Wayland
October has arrived without the promised handover of Antigua and Barbuda’s National Performing Arts Centre, wiping away a critical month-long buffer for testing and preparations before the venue welcomes Commonwealth leaders in November.
The government had repeatedly maintained that the flagship facility at the former Deluxe Cinema on High Street would be delivered by September 30, giving organisers approximately one month to prepare the building for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), scheduled for November 1 to 4.
But Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant confirmed during Thursday’s post-Cabinet media briefing that the deadline was not met.
According to Merchant, the latest delay involves certification for materials required to suspend speakers and other multimedia equipment from the roof of the building.
The certification must be secured before the equipment can be safely installed.
Merchant indicated that the building itself is substantially ready, suggesting that the outstanding work is centred on the technical installation rather than major structural construction.
This story was first published by Antigua News on October 2, 2026: antigua.news/2026/10/02/government-misses-performing-arts-centre-deadline-with-chogm-one-month-away. © 2026 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.
About the author
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 (4)
Unfiltered View October 2, 2026, 10:27 AM
This is certainly concerning with CHOGM just one month away. Hopefully, the certification issue can resolved quickly and the necessary equipment installed in time. With such a major international event approaching, proper planning and preparation are essential to ensure the island is fully ready to welcome our guests...
Replyinformed citizen October 2, 2026, 5:10 PM
The building may be mostly ready, but the technical side is just as important. You don't want to open a big facility and then realize the sound, lighting or other equipment not working properly. Hopefully they get it right from the start.
Replykisha October 2, 2026, 5:11 PM
Certification for the equipment is important, yes, but these things should have been dealt with before the September 30 deadline. We can't wait until the last minute when an international event is coming up.
ReplyApex Jones October 4, 2026, 10:47 AM
I knew their ambition was too ambitious. Stop giving deadline timelines. Aim for it but stop giving definitive days cause the public wont forget
Reply