St Helena : St Helena Air Access Update
Submitted by Saint Helena Herald (Public Relations Information Office) 23.12.2011 (Article Archived on 06.01.2012)
Momentum continues to build for the construction of the airport with the arrival of a second Basil Read team this weekend on the RMS.
Air Access Update
Second Basil Read Team Arrives
Momentum continues to build for the construction of the airport with the arrival of a second Basil Read team this weekend on the RMS. The team comprises three representatives: Barry Leech, Basil Read’s Construction Manager, who is the first employee to relocate to the island long term. Barry is responsible for overseeing all surveys, site establishment and initial temporary works. Barry will be accompanied by Freek Mare (Group Health and Safety Manager) and Alwyn Laas (Group Environmental Manager). The general responsibility of the visiting team will be to explore the environmental and health aspects of the project.
Since the contract was signed Basil Read’s off island team have been finalising agreements with all consultants for the project, including Architects, Structural, Electrical, Mechanical, Marine, Aviation, Independent Certifiers, Water and Environmental. In addition, Basil Read has been sourcing its own ship, a vessel that will be customized specifically for the project. This ship will be Basil Read’s “taxi” for the next four years, bringing cargo and some personnel to the island.
As we enter 2012 the pace quickens with more Basil Read staff and consultants expected to arrive on 5th January, including survey, drilling and site investigation teams. Some will stay on island for a short period, others remaining for a month to continue with investigations. In early 2012 work will begin in Rupert’s Valley. This includes establishing storage facilities, a temporary fuel farm, and the design and construction of a temporary wharf. Preliminary activities to allow permanent works to commence will begin, such as establishing communication infrastructure and ensuring the necessary permits, certificates and approvals are obtained.
Basil Read’s first cargo vessel with major construction plant and equipment is planned for arrival at Rupert’s Bay in mid 2012.
Over the coming months Basil Read will increase their workforce in preparation of the initial permanent works, which will commence with the access road from Rupert’s Valley to Prosperous Bay Plain, employing as many Saints as possible that have the right skills and experience to fit the needs of this project.
Regular updates from the Access Office will detail progress.
Access Office
8 December 2011
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