Tourism, Culture and the Arts Minister Randall Mitchell said the third phase of the restoration of the Lopinot Historical Complex will cost $15 million.
Speaking at the sod-turning ceremony for the project on Saturday, Mitchell said the money will be used for refurbishment of the Count House, the Jail House, the Cocoa House, and generally the entire estate.
“This includes complete upgrades to each of those buildings, including roof and floor repairs, replacement of doors and windows, plumbing, electrical work, painting, CCTV camera upgrades and more.”
He said following the transfer of the Lopinot Historical Complex from the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries to the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts in July 2022, significant progress has been made through a few infrastructural upgrades and maintenance initiatives.
“Notable improvements have been implemented in refurbishing the security booth, the tank farm, and the facility lighting throughout the complex already. Reflecting on the achievements of phase I and phase II, which included the upgrade of the washroom facilities and the reconstruction of the popular and well-known pedestrian bridge, it is evident that these enhancements have already had a positive impact on the complex.”
The event also commissioned the newly restored and completed pedestrian bridge and washroom facilities.
Mitchell said the ministry has identified the Lopinot Historical Complex as a crucial tourism asset with considerable potential.
[caption id="attachment_1067370" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Government officials admire the scenery on the refurbished bridge at the Lopinot Historical Complex on Saturday. - Angelo Marcelle[/caption]
“What we anticipate upon the completion of this project is substantial positive social impact and the provision of unique and more elusive tour experiences for a diverse range of visitors. We expect an increase in bookings at the site for weddings, photo shoots, various events, and visitors to our shores from international source markets."
He said daily tours organised by the Lopinot Tourism Association attract over 60,000 visitors annually, injecting considerable economic value into the community each year.
“The tours not only highlight the historical significance but also provide a thriving platform for local vendors. This not only contributes to the preservation of our cultural identity but also actively stimulates revenue generation. Through the sale of the products exclusive to TT such as jams, pepper sauces, cocoa balls, chocolates and more, the community thrives while safeguarding our unique heritage.”
Mitchell said the community-based tourism initiative introduced by the ministry to residents and business owners in Lopinot last year aimed to empower more micro, small, and medium enterprises to enhance their revenue generation from tourism. Participants included businesses such as local handmade crafts, jewellery, skin care products, hikes and agricultural tours.
Mitchell said the complex will also be used to
