Sandy’s Dock Repairs Near Completion
The Ministry of Public Works provided an update on the ongoing repair work at Sandy’s Dock in Devonshire on North Shore Road, saying that the project is nearing completion.
“Sandy’s Dock has been in rough shape for some time,” said Minister of Public Works Lt/Col David Burch.
A Government spokesperson said, “The Ministry of Public Works is pleased to update the public on the ongoing repair work at Sandy’s Dock in Devonshire on North Shore Road. As part of the Government’s commitment to upgrading critical community infrastructure, the Ministry allocated $400,000 for dock repairs across the Island, with Sandy’s Dock receiving $100,000 from this budget.
“Due to cost-effective management, the work is progressing under budget, with final costs expected to be around $60,000.
“The project, which is nearing completion, is being carried out by Smith Hauling and Excavating, led by Jason Smith. The company has been working efficiently to ensure the dock is safe and ready for public use.
“The work includes resurfacing the concrete, reinforcing structural elements, repairing steps, installing new handrails and life rings, and fixing a wall that collapsed during a hurricane last September.
Minister Burch added: “The concrete surface was cracked and broken, and it was becoming unsafe. This is an important community space, particularly in the summer months when residents swim and fish here.
“That is why we prioritised this project under the Government’s broader infrastructure upgrades.”
Minister Burch also detailed the technical aspects of the work. “We are not doing any new construction—just bringing the dock back to a safe, usable condition,” he explained.
“Crews have been removing loose materials and will be pouring new fibre-reinforced concrete that will not corrode over time. We are also installing stainless steel handrails, which will require minimal maintenance, and improving overall safety with new life rings and upgraded steps.
“We have also taken the opportunity to repair the damaged wall from last year’s hurricane.”
A Government spokesperson added, “With the project now in its final phase, the next steps include erecting fencing, restoring the grass in the surrounding area, and completing minor finishing touches.
“The work is expected to be fully completed within the next two months, weather permitting, as certain tasks can only be done at low tide. Minister Burch urged the public to be mindful of the ongoing work.”
“There is heavy equipment on-site, and the construction crew needs space to finish the job safely,” he said. “We ask residents to avoid the area for now so that we can get this done properly.”
A Government spokesperson added, “The dock repair initiative stems from the 2024 Mid-Year Budget Review, in which the Government allocated $3,465,000 for various Ministry upgrades and an extra $200,000 for road and debris clearing.
“The Ministry has already completed similar work at Mangrove Bay and continues to push forward with dock restorations at other locations.”
Minister Burch reaffirmed the Government’s commitment. “The Government is keeping its promises,” he stated.
“These docks are important for our communities, and we are ensuring they are safe and properly maintained for years to come.”
Austin Kenny, Principal Structural Engineer at the Ministry of Public Works, is pictured alongside the Minister
The update had to be given now? It couldn’t wait until February 19???
Is Penhurst Park going to be next? The steps there are awful……
Lets hope we never see this train wreck on TV again.
W&E too busy to do this small job, must be really busy at the quarry?
I hope somewhere on the list, the dock at Ordanance Island, that visiting yacht’s use to report into the island gets fixed soon. It’s a real eye sore and sad to see the arriving yachts cannot use the dock. Despite the big orange barriers to avoid people accessing the dock and signs, I still see children and adults there when the office there is closed fishing on the dock, which is a real safety risk.
The PLP Government does not want yachts wintering in St. George. You may recall that about 20 years ago the PLP Government changed the length of time visitors could stay without special permission from 3 months to 3 weeks.
That killed the business of yachts wintering in St. George. Why would the PLP Government now do something to facilitate business is does not want?
Visitors used to be 21 days (3 weeks) they now have 180 days (3 months). Those visiting on yachts have 6 months.
Yes, the PLP Government reversed the changes to the Bermuda Immigration and Protection Act, but only after the winter yacht business was destroyed.