Residents of Annandale, East Coast Demerara, are expected to have a completed community recreation ground in about two months, with a pavilion, children’s play equipment and exercise facilities being added to the Marshon Community Ground.

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Charles Ramson Jr. gave the timeline during a consultation with residents at the ground on Friday.

Fencing, lighting and landfilling have already been completed.

The remaining development includes the pavilion, turnstile access, play equipment and exercise facilities, according to the Department of Public Information.

Ramson said the ground’s low-lying position had made the project particularly difficult.

“This one is probably one of my hardest of all the 400-plus grounds that we have invested in,” he told residents.

He explained that the ground had been several feet below the surrounding road and seawall, leaving it vulnerable to water accumulation and delaying the work.

The development is intended to give residents a safe, functional space for recreation and community activities.

“These small community projects, it means a lot to the community,” Ramson said.

He also encouraged residents to help shape how the facility is developed and used, saying consultation is an important part of the process.

“Your views are important to us,” he told those gathered.

The minister said the government has invested in more than 650 community grounds nationally and installed lighting at over 150 facilities.