Following its return to power in November’s general election, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines’ New Democratic Party (NDP) administration has given final approval to a sustainability-focused renovation project for Little Tokyo, Kingstown’s primary bus terminal, with construction poised to launch as early as June, according to Minister of Housing, Land Management, Urban Development and Informal Settlement Upgrading Andrew John.
The bus terminal itself dates back more than 35 years, originally constructed with Japanese funding during the NDP’s previous term in office. After the Unity Labour Party (ULP) held office for 25 consecutive years, the infrastructure gradually fell into severe disrepair. John noted that the outgoing ULP administration had already drafted its own redevelopment plan for the site, which centered on large-scale concrete construction. Upon taking office, the new NDP government opted to conduct a full review of the inherited proposal before advancing.
“Kingstown has no need for additional large concrete developments,” John explained in a public statement. “Instead, we tasked the Urban Development Corporation with designing a new concept that delivers an eco-conscious, business-friendly public space where visitors and locals can gather, relax, and even enjoy a cup of coffee.”
The newly approved plan incorporates expanded green space across the terminal precinct, alongside comprehensive repairs to existing retail outlets and public restroom facilities. All upgrades are aimed at boosting the aesthetic appeal of Kingstown’s central transport hub, a key destination for commuters and visitors to the capital. The project is currently pegged at an estimated cost of 1 million Eastern Caribbean dollars, though John confirmed the final budget may shift slightly as the design team finalizes technical details.
“I am impressed by the level of detail and care the team has put into this plan, and I am eager to see work get underway,” John added.
Beyond the Little Tokyo project, the minister addressed longstanding public complaints about inadequate public toilet access across Kingstown. For years, residents have reported a lack of facilities that has forced some individuals to use outdoor public spaces, a problem that disproportionately harms elderly and vulnerable residents. John confirmed that upgrading these facilities is a top priority for the ministry to resolve this quality-of-life issue.
The ministry is also advancing plans to renovate Kingstown’s historic former Court House and Parliament building, a project currently on hold awaiting technical guidance from the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court. Once approved, the renovated structure will be repurposed to house the island’s civil court system. John also confirmed that a proposed new Hall of Justice planned for Beachmont is unlikely to break ground in 2024, and plans for a new permanent Parliament building have been paused indefinitely. Parliament currently operates out of a purpose-built temporary facility in Calliaqua, which John said meets all operational needs effectively. “The temporary facilities are excellent, and we will continue using them for the foreseeable future,” he noted.