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by pltm
(PLTM) - Premier and Minister for Finance Hon. Andrew Fahie said Beef Island could be the permanent home for the Drag Racing sport in the British Virgin Islands.
The Premier gave that indication during a live broadcast on Friday, April 16.
He informed that the BVI Airports Authority (BVIPA) would be putting its business plan to “fund the expansion of the Terrence B. Lettsome International Airport and runway.”
This, he explained, is “a vital project” to grow the tourism industry and increase arrivals.
“We need to expand so that we can accommodate larger aircraft for direct flights to and from major cities and airports,” he said.
The Premier added, “You should know that your Government is engaged in the arbitration process with regard to the Hung Lands at Beef Island [where the airport is located]. Acquiring just over 600-plus acres of land will allow the Government to pursue development initiatives that will enhance the economy. Additionally, this is a possible for site to house our proposed drag racing stadium, which is a potential opportunity for sports tourism and this will attract increased visitor and cargo traffic to the Territory.”
The property in question belongs to Raymond Hung from Hong Kong, China.
Initially plans over half a century ago was to construct a resort and golf course but that never materialized.
In 2019, when the matter of the drag racing sport was first mentioned by the Fahie administration, he said a home was being sought for the sport that would become an official sport in the territory.
One year later, the BVIAA said it appointed a special committee to negotiate the property in question, being referred to as ‘Hung Lands.’ Meanwhile, Premier said the BVIAA also has plans to upgrade the Virgin Gorda based airport to “further help boost the Tourism Industry especially on our Sister Islands.”
“This is another opportunity for creating jobs during the construction phase. Expanded facilities and capabilities will require more persons to work in aviation-related careers. When we increase passenger flows, we will increase the demand for accommodation, taxis, food and other services. People of the Virgin Islands get ready to move because our economy is going into overdrive,” Premier said.
