The Government has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering a modern, purpose-built facility to house the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeal on the site of the former Rodney Bain Building.

To mark this milestone and the commencement of construction, a groundbreaking ceremony was held at the site, at 50 Shirley Street, on Tuesday, March 31, 2026.

In his keynote remarks, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, the Hon. Philip Davis reaffirmed the government’s commitment to building a justice system that is fair, accessible, and worthy of the Bahamian people. He emphasized the importance of strong partnerships in bringing the project to fruition, expressing appreciation to the Chief Justice, the Attorney General, and all stakeholders who contributed to advancing the initiative.

In attendance at the ceremonies were: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation, the Hon. Chester Cooper; Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Senator the Hon. Ryan Pinder; Chief Justice Sir Ian Winder; President of the Court of Appeal, the Hon. Mr. Justice Milton Evans; Minister of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting, the Hon. Myles LaRoda; Minister of Agriculture and Marine Resources, the Hon. Jomo Campbell; Ambassador of the United States, His Excellency Herschel Walker and Mrs. Walker; British High Commissioner Her Excellency Smita Rossetti; President of the Bar Association, Mr. Quincy Parker; Justices of the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal; Magistrates; senior judicial officials; members of the diplomatic corps; members of the Bar; and other government representatives.  

Prime Minister Davis said: “I am proud because of what this groundbreaking represents.  It represents the government’s commitment to the administration of justice, the protection of rights, and the safety of our people.”

The Prime Minister noted that while judicial reform and the need for modern infrastructure have long been discussed, this project signals decisive action. The new Judicial Complex, which will house both the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeal, stands as a bold declaration of that commitment.

He further highlighted complementary efforts to strengthen law enforcement and public safety, including the recruitment of 787 police officers, 379 correctional officers, and more than 300 immigration officers.

Attorney General, Senator the Hon. Ryan Pinder underscored that the construction of the new complex forms part of a broader agenda to strengthen the judiciary.

“We have increased the complement of Supreme Court justices from 20 to 25, expanded the capacity of the Magistrate’s Courts—which also function as small claims courts—supported the digitization of court systems, implemented an e-filing system, and delivered a new Family Court on Bernard Road,” he said. “We have also enacted bail reform and anti-gang legislation to equip our courts with stronger legislative tools.”

The Attorney General also outlined key features of the proposed complex, including 19 courtrooms, a mediation centre, secure inmate holding areas with separation from judges and the public, CCTV surveillance, exhibit rooms, dining facilities, a multi-level parking garage, and panoramic views.

Chief Justice Sir Ian Winder provided a historical overview of the Judiciary’s evolution, noting its growth from a time when a single judge served as Chief Justice.

“The most iconic judicial building has been the Law Courts Building on Bank Lane, commissioned in 1921,” he said. “However, since the construction of the Garnet Levarity Justice Centre in Grand Bahama, there has been no major new facility to meet the increasing demands on our judiciary.”

Project architect Michael Foster discussed the design considerations and challenges addressed in developing the new complex. Planned upgrades include private judicial chambers with en suite facilities, secure underground parking, and a dedicated entry point for remanded and incarcerated individuals.

The Rodney Bain Building, upon demolition, will make way for the new development, which will comprise two purpose-built structures.

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