The Longstone House on Main Street Charlestown will be getting a major facelift as part of the TDC Group of Companies efforts to further advance its business operations on Nevis.
This was announced by Mr. Earle Kelly, Company Chairman on Thursday 28th April 2016 at a simple by significant ground breaking ceremony held in the courtyard of the iconic landmark.
According to Mr. Kelly, the building will undergo major restoration that will see it complement other the historic buildings at a cost of over three million Eastern Caribbean dollars.
In describing the scope of the project, he mentioned the age and effects of the natural elements on the historic structure needed to be given the attention it deserved. He stated that all doors and interior walls will be replaced and a new supper steel structure will support the upper floor.
New modern amenities including air conditioning systems, upgraded utilities (electricals, plumbing, computer communication lines, bathrooms) and a new sewage waste water treatment system will all form part of the upgrades. New exterior doors and windows, a paved parking area designed to manage water runoff, as well as, new landscaping in the courtyard will be featured in the makeover.
He noted, “Most importantly, the volcanic exterior stone walls will not be affected, those that need to be replaced, will be, and properly maintained to keep the significance of the building intact. This of course is in keeping with our commitment to significant value of this centuries old structure.”
He also made the announcement that the offices of the TDC Financial Services Company Limited, TDC Insurance Company Limited and SAGICOR offices will be relocated to the premises following the completion of the project. The move forms part of the company’s strategic plan to have its businesses on the ground floor to better meet the needs of customers and clients. The other remaining spaces will be made available for renting and leasing purposes.
Immediately following the Chairman’s presentation, an impression of the new look was unveiled, showing the façade and design of the remodelled property. It was designed by Brisbane O’Garro Alvaranga with the assistance of an in-house team from the TDC Real Estate and Construction Department. Nevisian Analdo Chiverton of Chiverton’s Construction, an experienced contractor will spearhead the project, which is expected to be completed in 2017. The Honourable Vance Amory, Premier of Nevis spoke of the Nevis Island Administration’s pleasure in having company take on another development initiative and the impact it would have on business and the island.
“I want to congratulate the TDC Group for their efforts to restore this beautiful building. I am very pleased to learn of the plans for this particular site. After hearing about and seeing the plans enhance this magnificent structure. It will no doubt enhance the beauty of charming Charlestown, while contributing to advancement of business. We in the NIA have always sought to maintain a partnership with TDC and are very encouraged by this investment,” he said.
Mr. Earle Kelly, TDC Group Chairman/CEO and the Honourable Vance Amory, Premier of Nevis breaking ground at the Longstone House
This was followed by the turning of the sod by Chairman Kelly and the Premier Amory, which was welcomed by cheers from the audience that included Board members, managers, shareholders, staff, representatives of the Nevis Island Administration (NIA) and specially invited guests, giving their seal of approval to the project.
The Longstone House was built in 1812 by planters, the Huggins brothers, although it had changed hands many times since then, the TDC Group acquired the building in April 2000 from H and F Henville. It was recently the home of TDC Airline Services, Carib World Travel and Western Union Money Transfer Services.
