The construction of the new Eslyn Henley Richiez Learning Centre is 81 percent complete and expected to be finished in the second quarter of the year, government announced last Thursday.
“More than just a building, it affirms our dedication to supporting and including our exceptional students,” Education, Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Sharie de Castro said of the school during a March 29 site visit. “I’m pleased with the progress and grateful for the collaborative efforts to deliver a facility that will serve them well.”
The nearly $4 million project initially was scheduled to be complete by last month, but the deadline was extended to ensure that the facility “fully meets accessibility and safety standards required for its specialised purpose,” according to a government statement.
After the original school was destroyed in the 2017 hurricanes, its students were temporarily headquartered at the Althea Scatliffe Primary School.
But the ASPS building was condemned and bulldozed in 2022, and they had to move to the Valerie O. Thomas Community Centre in Sea Cows Bay.
On Aug. 25, 2023, contractors finally broke ground on the new school, which is being overseen by the Recovery and Development Agency and is funded in part by money from the $65 million Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Loan secured from the Caribbean Development Bank after Hurricane Irma.
The specialised facility, which will accommodate about 30 students, is to include a sensory and therapeutic room, hygiene and withdrawal rooms, exterior and interior learning spaces, and full wheelchair accessibility.
Officials have said it is the first of its kind in the region.
Ms. de Castro’s recent visit was facilitated by RDA CEO Anthony McMaster and the project team.
The design was developed by TigerQi Architecture, and construction is being carried out by Autland Heavy Equipment Co. Limited.
