The Old Sugar Bond on the Barbados Port Inc. (BPI) compound at Harbour Road, St Michael, is being repurposed for two commercial ventures.
In so doing, a release from BPI stated that measures were in place to ensure construction was done safely and that any negative impacts were minimised.
It revealed that the Sugar Bond was leased to a private sector entity, Wayra Ltd.
“The facility is intended to be repurposed for two commercial ventures: the processing of animal feed and battery energy storage systems. All developmental work is being executed by the private sector entity,” the Port said.
While the work is being conducted, the Port said it was working to ensure procedures were in line with the Environmental Protection Department standards.
“BPI as landlord has sought to ensure the work is being done in compliance with a safety work plan under the regulatory control of the Environmental Protection Department,” it added.
This week officials in hazmat suits were seen around the facility at the Port and parts of the roof of the high-rise structure were removed.
While acknowledging there could be some impact on nearby businesses, the Port said they were working to lessen the possibility.
“BPI has been actively collaborating with the contractor to ensure the requisite mitigation measures are in place to minimise any negative impacts as a result of ongoing work.
“A series of sensitisation sessions are scheduled to take place with companies in the immediate environs as part of Wayra’s and its contractor’s ongoing stakeholder engagement,” the Port added.
