The Government of the Virgin Islands has announced the successful re-commissioning of the Burt-Point Waste Water Treatment Plant on Tortola.

Minister for Works, Honourable Kye M. Rymer revealed on Friday, April 12 that the comprehensive restoration works at the plant totaled $2,594,317.86 (2.6million).

Minister Rymer said with the Burt Point Plant now operational, immediate measures have been implemented to prohibit the dumping of sewerage at the Road Town pump station, redirecting it instead to the Burt Point pump station.

Honourable Rymer said, “The plant, which was previously out of service, has now been upgraded and is fully operational, providing tertiary-level sewage treatment for the surrounding community.  This service extension encompasses areas such as, Baugher’s Bay, Free Bottom, Purcell, Huntum’s Ghut, Horsepath, Long Bush, Road Town, and surrounding areas, ensuring improved sanitation and environmental protection.”

The re-commissioning of the plant is said to be an important milestone in the National Sewerage Programme, which aims to provide safe and sustainable sewage treatment facilities throughout the Virgin Islands. The programme includes the completion of the sewerage project in East End/Long Look and the installation of the sewerage treatment plant in Cane Garden Bay.

The upgrades to the facility include the installation of new equipment and infrastructure to improve its efficiency and reliability. The plant is now able to treat sewage to a higher standard, reducing the impact of sewage disposal on the environment and improving public health.