Edghill maintains work has started, progressing on $15.8B gov’t complex

Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, on Tuesday dismissed claims from Opposition Member of Parliament Annette Ferguson regarding the funding of the $15.8 billion Government Office Complex.

He asserted that the project has been thoroughly discussed and is vital for modernising government infrastructure and consolidating services for the benefit of all Guyanese.

“The assertion that public funds are being diverted to construct the Sheraton Four Points Hotel is not only absurd but also raises serious questions about the integrity of the opposition,” Minister Edghill stated during a recent address.

In his update on the project, Edghill confirmed that as of September 2024, the complex is 6% complete. Key milestones achieved include:

• 99% completion of all legal work and preliminary processes
• 100% completion of the first stage of geotechnical investigations
• 100% completion of land clearing for 20 acres
• 100% mobilisation of site offices
• 100% confirmation of the actual site location by the Ministry of Public Works
• 99% completion of sand filling for both temporary and permanent works on 13 acres
• 100% completion of the conceptual design
• 95% completion of the second stage of geotechnical investigations
• 25% completion of detailed design

Minister Edghill emphasised that much of the current work is being carried out off-site, including essential steel fabrication. He clarified that the apparent lack of visible activity on-site does not indicate a slowdown, but rather reflects the meticulous planning required for a project of this scale.

Upon signing the contract, a total of $2.6 billion was allocated as a mobilisation advance, with further payments made based on measured deliverables. The minister assured the public that all efforts are being made to keep the project on schedule for completion by 23 August 2026. He urged an end to what he described as the “recklessness” of the opposition’s rhetoric.

“Our primary objective is to deliver this vital project for the people of Guyana. We welcome constructive dialogue, but misinformation will not derail our commitment to progress,” he asserted.

The Government Office Complex is expected to significantly ease traffic congestion and parking challenges for citizens accessing government services. Strategically located in Eccles, it features three entry points accessible from major roadways, including the Demerara Harbour Bridge, the Ogle East Bank bypass, and Heroes Highway.