Construction has officially commenced on the $15.8 billion government office complex, with steel fabrication work now being carried out offsite. Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, emphasised that while visible activity on-site may appear limited, significant progress is being made behind the scenes to ensure the timely advancement of the project.
“Just because work isn’t visibly happening on-site doesn’t mean progress isn’t being made,” the minister noted during an interview with the Department of Public Information (DPI) on Monday.
Minister Edghill explained that the steel components are being fabricated in factories and will be transported to the site for assembly. These materials are cut to precise lengths and strength specifications to support the superstructure.
Currently, the project is about 6 percent complete, with $2.6 billion already paid to the contractor, Caribbean Green Building Inc. Future payments will be tied to work progress and certification from the FIDIC Engineer.
Construction efforts officially began on February 23, 2024, following a site relocation intended to improve accessibility to major roadways, including the Demerara Harbour Bridge and Heroes Highway.
Legal and preliminary groundwork is nearing completion, with land grubbing finished and geotechnical investigations almost concluded. The first stage of these investigations is complete, and the second stage is 95 percent finished. Additionally, sand filling for both temporary and permanent works, spanning 13 acres, is 99 percent complete. Detailed designs are 25 percent complete, with conceptual designs already approved.
The next phase will involve the manufacturing of concrete piles, which will be installed once all design parameters are confirmed. The office complex is scheduled for completion by August 23, 2026.
Minister Edghill also addressed concerns from the opposition, clarifying that this project is unrelated to the construction of the Sheraton Four Points Hotel. He reiterated that the complex is part of the government’s long-term strategy to improve efficiency by centralising public services.
The facility will feature four 12-story towers designed to accommodate 6,000 staff members, easing parking congestion in central Georgetown.
