Carolyn Thomas-Parker, communications and marketing manager, St John's Development Corporation. (Photo courtesy Theresa Gordon/OBSERVER Media)

ST JOHN’S, Antigua – St John’s Development Corporation (SJDC), the custodians for the city of St John’s, has promised “bigger and better things to come” for the area housing Sir Vere Cornwall Bird’s monument.

The bust, located on lower Market Street, was recently fenced in by the corporation, which made the decision to do so after years of battling with vagrants and other individuals who defaced and littered the property.

Communications and Marketing Manager of SJDC Carolyn Thomas-Parker told OBSERVER Media that the fencing of the monument is the first step in an overall plan to improve the aesthetics of the VC Bird bust.

She said the aim is to perk up the facility and make it into a tourist attraction, especially to cruise ship visitors who frequent the area.

“We realise that a lot of them journey to the market to get a taste of what West Indian lifestyle is all about,” Parker said.

“You go to the market, and you see the people, giving you a true feeling of the real Antiguan experience.”

She added that with the VC Bird bust strategically placed in that spot, it’s an added attraction.

The upgraded facility will include improved seating, replacement of plants, among other amenities.

Parker is confident that the erection of the fence and proper monitoring of the facilities will put an end to the constant problem of disrespect to the site.

The fencing project was completed by a private contractor with materials provided by the St John’s Development Corporation.

(More in today’s Daily OBSERVER)