United Progressive Party candidate Jamale Pringle has unveiled an ambitious plan for a major sports and entertainment complex, alongside a broader package of youth development and economic opportunity pledges, as the campaign ahead of the April 30 general election intensifies.
According to Antigua News Room, Pringle made the announcement at a party rally, declaring that a future UPP government would construct the Sir Vivian Richards Sports and Entertainment Complex at North Sound as a flagship project of his first term.
"I give you my commitment… I give you my promise. We will do it again," Pringle told supporters, referencing the party's past role in delivering the existing cricket stadium.
The proposed development would include an 8,000-seat football stadium, a 5,000-seat indoor arena for sports such as basketball and netball, a track and field facility, and an aquatic centre for competitive swimmers.
Pringle framed the project as a direct response to longstanding infrastructure gaps facing young athletes and creatives, arguing that many Antiguans have been compelled to seek opportunities abroad due to insufficient local facilities.
"For too long, our young sportsmen and women have demonstrated their talent but have not had the facilities to take them to the next level," he said.
The complex would also incorporate spaces for music, drama and other creative arts, positioning it as a hub for entertainment and cultural expression. Pringle linked the initiative to shifting trends in the job market, noting that younger generations are increasingly pursuing careers in sports, entertainment and emerging industries rather than traditional employment paths.
"School leavers are looking for different opportunities… including in entertainment and in sports," he said, adding that investment in these sectors is critical as artificial intelligence continues to reshape the global workforce.
Pringle also pledged that the complex would help establish Antigua and Barbuda as a regional centre for sports tourism, capable of attracting major events, international scouts and investors.
"We will make Antigua and Barbuda into the centre of Caribbean sports tourism," he said.
The opposition leader used the occasion to criticise the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party administration, accusing it of failing to deliver on prior commitments, including the long-promised construction of an aquatic centre.
Pringle also called on supporters to mobilise ahead of polling day, urging voters to confirm their registration is current and to turn out early on election day.
The rally forms part of the UPP's broader campaign push ahead of the April 30 general election, with Pringle anchoring the party's platform around youth empowerment, infrastructure development and economic diversification.
