OPM may return to Whitehall

The Office of the Prime Minister may soon return to Whitehall if the Urban Development Corporation TT’s plans (Udecott) are accepted by Cabinet.

In a brief interview on Friday, Udecott’s media, events and community outreach manager Roxanne Stapleton said, “Udecott is currently awaiting a Cabinet decision regarding the end use of the Stollmeyer’s Castle, and when completed Whitehall will be the Office of the Prime Minister.”

Stapleton said the restoration of the building was completed a few months ago, but they (Udecott) is waiting for a response from Cabinet to know what the Castle will be used for.

President of the NGO Citizens for Conservation Rudylynn Roberts said the group had made a suggestion and come up with a business plan for Stollmeyer’s Castle showing how it could be re-used as a museum, and how the museum could earn revenue.

Roberts said the business plan was submitted to the OPM three months ago.

“We knew that they received the letter... in fact we had a meeting to discuss the matter, but we have not been told whether the suggestion is being considered seriously or not. We met with various people and had a lengthy discussion, but no, as far as we know, no decision has been made regarding the use of the Stollmeyer’s Castle. The Whitehall will be used for the Office of the Prime Minister.”

Udecott’s website says Stollmeyer’s Castle “will serve as a house museum.” However, Sunday Newsday was told the information on the website has not been updated for some time, so the information may not be accurate.

The castle is lit every night and has stood empty for months.