THE GARRISON will once again be the social and cultural centre of Bridgetown.

Minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office Reverend Joseph Atherley speaking on Sunday at the launch of the Garrison Historic Area Project said the area possessed a rich history.

He said the arts and cultural concerts would return to the area, as programmes would be developed for the museum and other buildings.

Atherley said it was time to form a partnership for profit and he welcomed the Barbados Garrison Historical Consortium Inc. who would shortly begin consultations on the plans for the facilities.

He said the upgrading of the area had started with George Washington House.

James Blades, who is involved with the project, said its goals were to establish a world-class heritage tourism product and to contribute to the sustainable economic and social development of Barbados.

"The committee which consists of equal numbers of private and public sector entities, immediately recommended that a three-year strategic and business plan be developed to inform the direction of the project," he said. (WB)