By NATARIO McKENZIE

Tribune Business Reporter 

nmckenzie@tribunemedia.net

THE New Providence landfill’s new manager yesterday pledged Bahamians will start to see a “transformation” of the facility within six months, as it bids to extend its life by 35 years.

The landfill, which will become the New Providence Ecology Park, will be “a world-class model of environmental leadership, economic sustainability and stewardship”, pledged Ken Kerr, head of Providence Advisors. 

“With confidence, we are now poised to collectively address, and permanently resolve, one of our country’s long-standing environmental and social hazards though the development of the New Providence Ecology Park with a world-class model of environmental leadership, economic sustainability and stewardship.”

The Waste Resources Development Group (WRDG), which has partnered with Providence Advisors, the Bahamian investment house headed by Mr Kerr, was selected as the preferred bidder to take over the landfill’s operations - and effect a $130m transformation of the site - in late August 2018. The new landfill operator will takeover operations in 30 days after finalising its agreement with the government.

 “The New Providence Ecology Park is committed to the delivery of a safe and sustainable world-class waste management system, reducing toxins and environmental contaminants, thereby improving air and water quality and ensuring a viable solution for the people of the Bahamas for years to come. The multi-phase project has an estimated total cost of $45m over the contract term,” said Mr Kerr.

“In addition to the design, building, remediation and ongoing operation of the landfill, the project will feature several sustainability measures and beneficial features to enhance the immediate and long-term health of the people of the Bahamas and the environment. It is projected that up to 45 or more long-term environmental jobs will be supported through the park’s creation.”

Mr Kerr said the process of identifying persons to fill high-level managerial positions was already underway. “The journey to this point has been longer than expected, but it has been a collaborative process to ensure that all aspects of delivering a first-class project are in place,” he added.

“We have always acknowledged that a project of this magnitude and importance to our national and economic development calls for diligence, accuracy and attention to every detail.”

Mr Kerr said the first phase of the landfill’s redevelopment will include the proper management of waste streams and use of modern scientific processes to extend the life of the landfill to 2053. He explained that the landfill will be remediated to EPA standards, noting that the cap/cover method - which is widely used in the US - will be carried out at the New Providence landfill. While the first phase of the project calls for the operation/management of the landfill, renewable energy is another aspect which will be dealt with separately.

Henry Dean, the WRDG head, yesterday praised the Government for what he called a “bold decision” in selecting the local consortium. “We certainly appreciate the confidence,” said Mr Dean. “Watch the transformation that will occur in the next six months.  Come visit with us in six months’ time and you will appreciate the difference we intend to make.”

Romauld Ferriera, minister of the environment and housing, said: “We are very pleased to be a part of what we deem something we want to repeat throughout the Bahamas. Our country has 28 inhabited islands.

“We have scattered landfill and dumpsites throughout the country that are in need of effective management. We’re looking to repeat this process throughout the Family Islands going forward. We are looking forward to great things.”