Ottley Hall Marina and Shipyard leased to locally registered company

A locally registered company, St Vincent Shipyard Limited (SSL), yesterday announced that it has signed a lease with the Government of St Vincent and the Grenadines, in respect of the operations of the Ottley Hall Marina and Shipyard.{{more}}

Last month prime minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves announced that the government was in talks with a private sector company, in this regard.

According to a release from the company, SSL comprises five local engineers and three persons from abroad who are shareholders. The agreement in respect of the lease was signed on June 23, 2015, and will be in effect for a period of 15 years in the first instance.

The company will assume management of the shipyard from July 1, 2015.

A spokesperson for SSL said that the company intends to retain the current staff at the marina, adding that more persons will be employed as the activities at the shipyard increase.

Chairman of SSL Daniel Ravotti said the company is excited about this development, which will enhance the provision of ship yard and dry docking facilities in the State.

The release said the services to be provided at the marina include dry docking, inspection and repairs to hulls; bunkering, sand blasting, shell plating and painting, and the installation, maintenance and overhaul of marine engines.

Another director, Vincentian Mark Lulley has confirmed that SSL will engage in a number of restorative activities in relation to the shipyard, to make the facility ready for full operations.

SSL says that it will spend over EC $5 million in this regard. This will include plans for the completion of a small hotel and the reopening of the supermarket.