The twin island destination of Antigua and Barbuda is set to see more development in the world of tourism with an increase in UK tourist visits of 22 per cent since this time last year, the announcement of a new minister for tourism following the recent elections and the completion of the new terminal at the V.C. Bird International Airport by November 2014.

Gaston Browne of the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party, was sworn in as Antigua and Barbuda’s new prime minister on June 13th 2014.

He announced Anthony Michael would be appointed as the minister responsible for tourism, economic development, investment and energy, while Robin Yearwood as the minister of public utilities, civil aviation and transportation.

The announcement comes as visitor figures are released showing UK arrivals to Antigua have increased by 22 per cent since the same period in 2013.

It is anticipated further increase will come from November when the building of the brand new V.C. Bird International Airport terminal will be completed.

The new terminal is set to treble the number of departure gates with numerous retail stores and restaurants in addition to departure lounge capacities of nearly 1,000 seats.

“The announcement of new ministers for tourism and civil aviation took place just after Antigua and Barbuda’s inaugural Travel Trade Showcase on the island and both will bring new initiatives into this sector,” stated Cherrie Osborne, Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority director for UK and Europe.

“The completion of the new airport terminal this November will further add to our product offering and enhance the visitor experience for many so that we continue to welcome even higher numbers of visitors to the destination.”