Chinese firm to develop town

 THE New Ireland provincial administration has signed a memorandum of understanding with a leading Chinese construction company, Longyuan C&C Construction Group of Shanghai, to develop and transform Kavieng town. 

Longyuan executives and engineers spent five days in the province investigating a range of development projects in the Kavieng and Namatanai districts.

New Ireland Governor Sir Julius Chan said: “This will establish the foundation for a very fruitful relationship for many years.  

“We are eager to see Longyuan consider a variety of additional big projects in New Ireland.”

Construction contracts for a new governor’s residence in Kavieng and Gavman Haus in Namatanai were also signed on Monday. 

“These contracts are only the beginning of major developments.

“I find it fitting that the first of the many developments is the governor’s residence, as a symbol of rebirth from the ashes since the burning of the governor’s residence in September 1999,” Sir Julius said. 

“Kavieng town will have new housing, shopping and office space and will create a benchmark for attracting businesses to establish themselves in Kavieng. 

“We are also considering relocation of Kavieng airport.”

He said contracts were approved and executed by Paul Frame of Frameworks Architects for the design, engineering and project management for the upgrading and redesign of the provincial assembly and government office complex. 

Upon completion, the provincial assembly would be re-dedicated as the provincial legislative council, as proposed in constitutional amendments for an Autonomous New Ireland.

“Today we have charted an ambitious future for Kavieng and New Ireland.  We have kept true to the promise of the Malagan Declaration.  Contractors and Architects will assist us to fulfill those ambitions.  

“Our intent is no less than that Kavieng will become a centre for industry, business and tourism for the Islands region,” Sir Julius said.