Barbuda Set to Outshine St. Barts: PM Gaston Browne Outlines Ambitious Plans for Development
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has unveiled bold plans to position Barbuda as the Caribbean’s premier luxury destination, surpassing even the renowned St. Barts in terms of sustainable development and exclusivity. Speaking on Pointe FM on Saturday, Browne detailed a comprehensive vision for the island’s future, centered around green energy, high-end tourism, and cutting-edge infrastructure.
Reflecting on his first interactions with Barbudans in 2012, Browne described the dire conditions that existed on the island at the time. “You literally, any time after about 6 pm, couldn’t get any water to bathe,” he said, noting that when water was available, it came in small, salty trickles. He also recalled the inadequate electrical and road infrastructure, which have since become key targets for improvement.
“We have budgeted $50 million of roadworks for Barbuda next year alone,” the Prime Minister announced, adding that an ongoing agreement with the PLH development group will see 80% of transfer taxes reinvested into building the island’s road network. Browne highlighted that PLH has already invested EC $2 billion into Barbuda’s development, with further plans to grow that investment to EC $8 billion over the next decade.
Browne emphasized that the government is committed to sustainable and low-impact development. “We want Barbuda to be a truly sustainable island community, one that is powered exclusively by green energy,” he said. As part of the island’s transformation, plans are in place to ensure Barbuda’s energy supply comes from solar power. Currently, a one-megawatt solar energy plant covers up to 60% of the island’s energy needs, but the government aims to expand that to three megawatts, making Barbuda net zero or even carbon negative in terms of its environmental impact.
In addition to energy initiatives, Browne revealed that ornamental plants and fruit trees will be planted along the newly developed roads as part of a beautification effort, underlining the island’s commitment to sustainability and food security. “Barbuda is a clean canvas, and we want to make sure we get it right,” he said.
The Prime Minister also outlined key tourism projects already in motion, including the construction of the Robert De Niro-backed Paradise Found and Nobu Hotels. “By this time next year, Nobu Hotel will be opening its doors to patrons,” Browne announced. He added that 40 villas, each situated on one-acre plots to maintain the island’s low-density model, are currently under construction. This development strategy, he said, will help Barbuda position itself as a high-end luxury destination.
Looking ahead, Barbuda’s airport will also undergo significant expansion to accommodate direct flights from North America and Europe. “We’ll be expanding the airport runway by at least another 2,000 feet commencing next year,” Browne said. This move is expected to allow larger commercial jets to fly directly to the island, bypassing Antigua and facilitating a seamless experience for international visitors.
Browne’s vision for Barbuda extends beyond luxury tourism. He also announced plans for a new cargo port to accommodate larger shipping containers, a business hub on the old airport site, and expanded banking services to support the island’s economic growth. The hospital will also receive upgrades, including dialysis machines, ensuring that residents can access critical healthcare services without traveling to Antigua.
Despite these ambitious plans, Browne acknowledged the resistance from some Barbudans and local politicians. “Unfortunately, there are those in Barbuda who have fought us,” he said, but insisted that the government’s efforts are aimed at empowering the island’s people.
The Prime Minister is confident that the island’s future is brighter than ever. “I believe that within three to five years, Barbuda will surpass St. Barts as the most significant luxury island destination,” he declared, setting the stage for a transformative decade ahead.
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