Gov’t to launch Port Vila CBD Concept Plan on July 28

July 24, 2025 9:50 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now Twitter Facebook

The Government of Vanuatu, through the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MOIA), will officially launch the Port Vila Central Business District (CBD) Concept Plan on Monday 28 July 2025 during the country’s Independence Day celebrations.

The Concept Plan was developed under the leadership of the Department of Urban Affairs and Planning (DUAP) and the Port Vila City Council (PVCC), with technical support from the World Bank.

It outlines a national commitment to rebuild Port Vila to be stronger, greener, and more inclusive following the 7.3 magnitude earthquake in December 2024.

The Port Vila CBD Concept Plan is part of the Government’s recovery and resilience approach. It aligns with the National Sustainable Development Plan (NSDP) and focuses on inclusive growth, disaster readiness, and climate-conscious urban planning.

“This Concept Plan is about more than infrastructure, it’s about dignity, resilience, and opportunity for all ni-Vanuatu. We are not just rebuilding Port Vila, we are reimagining it,” said Minister of Internal Affairs Andrew Solomon Napuat.

The earthquake caused widespread damage in the CBD, resulting in the loss of 14 lives, the demolition of more than 20 buildings, and serious disruption to businesses and livelihoods. In response, the Government placed CBD redevelopment as a priority under its 100-Day Plan.

The Concept Plan reimagines Port Vila as a city better prepared for future disasters, more connected, culturally vibrant, and environmentally sound. It proposes upgrades such as: safer and wider footpaths; new green spaces; improved markets; better infrastructure; stronger building designs; and solutions to issues such as sewage management and construction on unsafe fault lines.

“The redesign also prioritises creating opportunities for Ni-Vanuatu to participate in the CBD,” said Minister Napuat. “We are laying the foundation for a safer, more liveable city, where families thrive, businesses grow, and culture flourishes.”

Public consultation played a key role in shaping the Plan, including engagement with business leaders and development partners, SMS input, and online surveys. Over 85% of respondents in a DUAP/PVCC national survey supported the Concept Plan.

“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to redesign Port Vila into a city that reflects our values, our resilience, and our aspirations,” said Lady Mayor Jenny Tasale.

The Concept Plan will be officially launched on 28 July, together with the reopening of the Port Vila Market House. The event will be held at the Port Vila Market House from 10am–11am, and the public is invited to attend.

A new Project Management Unit (PMU) will be set up under DUAP to oversee the implementation of the Plan, supported by ongoing policy changes, including the National Building Code and Physical Planning Guidelines.

“Just as we once claimed our political future in 1980, today we are claiming our urban future—with pride, unity, and purpose,” said Minister Napuat.