BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC)

The Barbados government has made another investment of $26 million (US$13 million) in the island's preparations for the 2007 International Cricket Council World Cup.

On Tuesday, Deputy Prime Minister Mia Mottley said the money would be used to beautify the environs of Kensington Oval, venue for the event's final, as well as boosting security, health and transport services.

"One of the largest spending requirements was BDS$6.4 million (US$3.2 million) to cover Barbados' security commitments under a BDS$41.6 million (US$20.8 million) arrangement with CARICOM member countries hosting the games," she told Parliament Tuesday.

The beautification project at the ground will cost BDS$2.2 million, while BDS$1.2 million will help create vending facilities, bathrooms and a service access road.

The ground is being re-developed at a cost of US$67.5 million and will be completed by the end of January.

As part of the security plan, Mottley said BDS$1.2 million was required to purchase 'helicopter airtime' and equipment for the Special Services Unit, with another BDS$1.1 million needed for the purchase of a surveillance system to be used at the various ports of entry.