The Government of Montserrat is moving forward with the Margarita Bay Wastewater Project, a major infrastructure initiative aimed at replacing the aging sewage treatment system in Lookout.
As part of the project, the new facility will see extensive site development works such as land clearing, construction of access roads, storm drainage systems, underground utilities, lift stations, sludge drying beds, and operational buildings.
In an interview with ZJB News, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Building, Utilities, Infrastructure, Labour, transportation & Ecclesiastical Affairs (BUILTE) Colin Fergus says the project is crucial in ensuring sustainable wastewater management for the island while safeguarding environmental health.
The Ilse company and Hydrolia Water Solutions, the contracted consultants for the project, will work with the Government of Montserrat and the Montserrat Utilities Limited (MUL) to ensure its successful completion.
Environmental Engineer at Hydrolia, Liz Arango Miu-noz, in outlining the details of the new system, say the facility will use a multi-stage treatment process, which is designed to improve efficiency while reducing environmental impact.
Civil Engineer with Hydrolia Alonso Salas says the new facility is being designed to handle both current needs and future population growth on Montserrat.
Meantime, Managing Director of Montserrat Utilities Limited Julian Daniel reiterated the importance of the project and long term role it will play in supporting the future development of Montserrat.
Daniel highlighted the potential reuse of treated by-products.