President James Michel yesterday met members of the Seychelles2020 Presidential Commission – initially known as the National Project Monitoring Unit – to discuss the progress of some of the projects showcased in the Seychelles2020 Expo in March 2011.

Mr Michel was briefed on the project implementation timeline and detailed plans for Ile Soleil and Ile Aurore in particular, as both projects are expected to start this year.

Technical studies were made in June 2011, followed by subdivision and demarcation of plots of land in October 2011 and an environment study in November 2011. Currently the Seychelles Investment Board (SIB) Seychelles 2020 sales office is being planned for installation into an area of the National Library building in March 2012. Its construction is envisaged to start in July 2012 and be completed in several phases by 2015.

The commission also outlined the plans for financing of the housing and commercial projects, which are expected to attract 100% private sourcing.

It was noted that the infrastructure – roads, water, electricity, sewerage – would be built by a public limited company that is to be set up shortly by the government.

Furthermore, it was highlighted that the housing architectural plans had been identified for the projects. However those not wishing to use the proposed designs would be given alternative building guidelines, where other architectural styles may be used.

The commission also presented the President with updates on projects planned for La Digue, such as the solar street-lighting project, as well as other infrastructure projects for Praslin and Mahe, including the La Promenade waterfront project.

The meeting  was attended by secretary of state in the President’s Office, Ambassador Barry Faure  who chairs of the commission, principal secretary (PS) for Presidential Affairs Lise Bastienne, the PS for Land Use and Housing Christian Lionnet, chief executive of the Public Utilities Corporation Philip Morin, chief executive of the Seychelles Investment Bureau (SIB) Sherin Renaud, chief executive of the Planning Authority Gerard Hoareau, architect Alain Hazan from the private sector, director for Project Implementation in the Department of Land Use  Yves Choppy, and SIB's director of Investment Promotion and Facilitation Sabrina Agathine.

Acting attorney general David Esparon, and iSeyCo Ltd consultants David P. Savy and Gilbert Pool made presentations to the commission.

The Seychelles2020 Presidential Commission is mandated to liaise with all agencies and persons in the country, public or private, and facilitate broad cross-agency coordination, monitor implementation, and keep the President and the cabinet of ministers informed of the progress of the projects.

Forrás: www.nation.sc