PM Commits Funding for Potters Pool Expansion

Potters Sports Complex Expansion Gets Boost as Browne Commits Funding for Larger Swimming Pool

Prime Minister Gaston Browne has committed government funding to expand the swimming pool at the Potters Playing Field redevelopment project, adding momentum to a major community sports initiative expected to be completed ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).

The commitment was announced during a site visit led by Karen-Mae Hill and Minister of State Michael Freeland, who were joined by philanthropist Sir David Harrison and members of the project’s board of trustees.

Project officials welcomed the Prime Minister’s pledge, saying the expansion will increase the facility’s capacity and strengthen its long-term benefits for residents and athletes.

Sir David said he was pleased with the progress of construction and expressed confidence that the project remains on track for completion.

Hill described the redevelopment as an investment in the Potters community, noting that it is intended to promote physical and mental well-being, youth development, social cohesion and entrepreneurship. She said the facility is expected to become a venue for community events, school competitions and national sporting activities, while positioning Potters to host regional and international events in the future.

The redevelopment is targeted for substantial completion by September 1, 2026, roughly two months before Antigua and Barbuda hosts CHOGM from November 1 to 4.

Key features include three hard courts for basketball, netball and volleyball, each with covered spectator stands seating about 225 people. Contractor Agile Courts Construction has been engaged to resurface the courts, install lighting, apply markings and erect fencing and other sporting infrastructure. Officials said all lighting equipment has already been delivered.

The complex will also include a multi-purpose football and cricket field. Grading works are underway, with drainage installation scheduled before grassing begins. The field is expected to be fully sodded by August.

Additional works include construction of an electrical room to support site lighting and the planned integration of solar energy systems.

Project timelines indicate the hard courts and spectator stands should be completed by September, while the swimming pool and baseball facilities are expected to be finished by October.

The development has received support from several donors, including the late Sir Aziz Hadeed, after whom the cricket and football pavilion will be named the Aziz Fares Hadeed Pavilion.

Project officials said 80 per cent of the workforce has been drawn from Potters Village, ensuring that employment and skills training opportunities remain within the community.

When completed, the Potters Playing Field redevelopment is expected to become one of Antigua and Barbuda’s largest community sporting facilities and a lasting legacy project associated with CHOGM 2026.

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