PM Browne orders C.O. Williams to fix defective roads

St. John’s, Antigua: In a direct response to growing public frustration over deteriorating infrastructure, Prime Minister Gaston Browne has instructed C.O. Williams Construction to immediately repair sections of recently resurfaced roads that have proven to be defective. Crucially, the Prime Minister confirmed that all corrective repairs will be carried out strictly at the contractor’s own expense, ensuring taxpayers will not pay twice for flawed work.

The announcement comes following widespread complaints from motorists regarding rutting, cracking and rapid wear on several newly completed stretches of the national road network. Addressing the issue, PM Browne acknowledged the public’s anger and described the unexpected failure of these freshly laid surfaces as a serious cause for concern.

For months, drivers across Antigua have expressed frustration over uneven road surfaces and premature damage appearing shortly after resurfacing projects were completed. Depressions and deep fruits along major corridors have not only created uncomfortable driving conditions but have also raised safety risks and increased vehicle repair costs for daily commuters.

While the government has invested heavily in modernising the country’s transportation infrastructure, PM Browne made it clear that low-quality execution will not be tolerated. He emphasised that private contractors must be held accountable for the standards laid out in their official agreements. Because the resurfacing work failed to meet contract specifications, C.O. Williams Construction is legally and financially obligated to fix the defects without receiving additional government funding.

“We cannot have roads deteriorating just months after millions of dollars are invested in resurfacing them,” the Prime Minister stated, underscoring that public funds must be protected through strict quality control.

The government’s firm stance sends a strong warning to all contractors managing state projects. The Ministry of Works is expected to oversee the repair process to ensure that proper paving techniques, adequate sub-base preparation, and durable asphalt mixes are used this time around.

Work on the affected roads is slated to begin shortly, with traffic management plans expected to be put in place to minimise inconvenience to the travelling public during the corrective repairs. Motorists hope this decisive move will finally deliver the smooth, safe, and long-lasting road network the country was promised.