A significant political dispute has emerged in St Kitts and Nevis regarding the construction methodology of the new Basseterre High School, currently under development through offshore manufacturing in Barbados. The project, described as the nation’s largest public infrastructure endeavor, has ignited fierce debates concerning fiscal transparency, local economic benefits, and procurement processes.
Preconco Ltd, a Barbadian construction firm, secured the contract in 2024 with initial reports indicating a value of EC$100 million. Recent allegations, however, suggest the project cost has escalated dramatically to approximately EC$271 million, raising serious concerns among opposition figures and citizens alike.
Executive Chairman Mark Maloney broke his silence during an exclusive interview, confirming that structural components including wall panels, floor slabs, and columns are being manufactured at Preconco’s Lears, St Michael facility. Maloney emphasized the company’s 35-year expertise in precast concrete technology, highlighting previous successful regional projects including rapid housing reconstruction in Dominica post-Hurricane Maria.
“The decision to manufacture components in Barbados was made by the St Kitts and Nevis government in partnership with our team to ensure highest standards of quality, speed, durability and value for a state-of-the-art school in a hurricane-prone region,” Maloney stated. He clarified that while the method delivers cost efficiencies through optimization and reduced on-site time, primary drivers remain quality, speed and long-term durability rather than labor cost reduction.
Addressing concerns about local workforce exclusion, Maloney pointed to government assurances that approximately 95% of on-site workers will be Kittitian, engaged in foundation preparation, erection, installation, interior fit-outs, electrical and plumbing works, and landscaping.
Despite these assurances, opposition figures have launched scathing critiques during parliamentary budget debates. Former Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Shawn Richards demanded transparency regarding contract awarding processes and alleged EC$27 million payments without visible construction progress. Critics have further questioned whether proper tender procedures were followed, with local construction companies reporting no invitation to submit proposals.
The controversy deepens with revelations that this marks the second time a Barbadian company has been contracted for the school’s construction. A previous administration allegedly paid another firm EC$50 million without resulting construction, with funds remaining unaccounted for.
Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew recently toured the Lears facility and confirmed that four containers carrying foundation kits have been loaded for shipment, with full construction commencing this month and a two-year completion timeline.
As the debate intensifies, Maloney expressed belief that this construction model holds strong potential for wider Caribbean adoption to address skilled labor shortages and climate resilience needs, while maintaining that project costs have remained unchanged despite allegations.