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The government of Antigua and Barbuda is moving to seize and demolish more than 20 abandoned buildings in the commercial centre of St John’s, under new legislation aimed at improving public health, safety, and sanitation.
Cabinet spokesperson Ambassador Lionel Hurst confirmed the move during Thursday’s post-Cabinet media briefing, stating, “There are variables, and we don’t expect to do all 20 at the same time, but over a period of years we’ll move first on those that are the most egregious—those that harm their neighbours the most.”
The properties, many of which are located along Vivian Richards Street, Market Street, Newgate Street, and Independence Avenue, have become overrun with rodents and used as illegal dumping sites, according to the Inland Revenue Department (IRD), which presented photographs of the buildings to Cabinet.
Hurst said, “People seem to be able to dispose of rubbish there, and they pose a threat to other property owners who have appealed to the government to do something.”
He explained that under the new law, the government may now apply to the court for permission to intervene if owners fail to act.
“The Parliament of Antigua and Barbuda has acted—provided the legal underpinning for removing these buildings and treating the properties in a manner that is in keeping with the sacrosanct nature of real property in Antigua and Barbuda.”
Hurst added that efforts would begin with properties that pose the greatest health and safety risks, especially where there are disputes over inheritance or where owners cannot be located.
He also confirmed that any funds recovered above the amount owed in back taxes and cleanup costs would be returned to the rightful owner of record.
“If, for example, a property owes no more than $100,000 in taxes, and the clearing of the property required, say, $50,000 worth of work… if you can sell the property for $200,000, the owner of record would receive what is called the overage,” he said.
Officials also acknowledged the wider scope of the problem. “These are only 20 buildings within the commercial sector of St John’s,” Hurst noted. “But if you go into the wider communities… there are hundreds of buildings that are like that.”
He said the initiative is part of a broader plan to revitalise the capital and ensure that the city is not left to decay.
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What’s the plan after demolition? More parking lots or actual development?
St. John’s really needs a facelift
I support this, but I also worry about where small businesses operating near them will go.
Are they going to address the squatters in some of these places too?
St. John’s has so much potential — clearing out abandoned spots could attract more business.
About time! Some of these old structures are eyesores and safety hazards.
Are they being targeted for demolition or are members of the real estate company looking to huff them?
Always think outside the box when members of this government speak.
Their intentions are never nibke..