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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I can’t imagine Pringle having the ability to speak sensibly on sustainability and geological issues. Meanwhile, I can’t imagine the opposition getting into power and going out and seeking investments representing Antigua. I can imagine how baseless and incompetent they would sound. Not to name call but who would they send? Potter? Say what you want but ALP has experience and mentors on their side. UPP needs back their old squad if they want to win. @Brixtonian, you need to be impartial and stop letting your hate feed your comments online.
Dear Mr PM
It would have served the country well if the people of the country had a vision for themselves and anyone who wish to participate would have to fit into their development structure.
That said perhaps investing in a digitallized fishery processing plant. Purchase a fleet of proper deep see fishing vessels and create a fishing industry. It would serve the people better.
Mr PM Barbudans Luke Antiguans are now pushed into a corner to work for pay check to pay check.. A state of dependency to become servants to wealthy people.
Crying crying crying crying…..why why why why. There is no development in Barbuda their is anti- development.
Barbuda SET to become an Apartheid playground for the Uber rich & wealthy. Pay attention Barbudans, pedophila is rife in these types of circles.
The Caribbean as a whole is again being colonised — and too many of us applaudes this new form of slavery.
https://youtu.be/WgIdG0SWWxE?si=7YYbECoLwUBMZnGh
What are the similarities between Barbuda and Maui, Hawaii?
♥️💛🖤💚: Dumb comments. You should look up what Apartheid really means before foolishly throwing around that term.
@Stingray
It is absolutely not a dumb comment. Your attacking that statement illustrates you ignorance, prejudice or lack of knowledge.
Do you know the conditions in Barbuda which are long term discriminatory and cruel treatment by one racial or ethnic group to another. Do you know what were the conditions at Coco Point Lodge ?
Barbudans can’t go to many places any longer on Barbuda. Their aren’t any area in Barbuda where whites are restricted from.
Many jobs in these new developments like PLH at Palmetto; local managers are restricted to back of the house functions.
There are many forms of Apartheid. Barbuda has the character classic Apartheid.
Gaston jeeps using St. Baths as a reference or his gold standard.
That is so dumb. Look at the quality of life of the average Saint Bartholomew resident compared to that of Barbuda.
Look at the education facilities in Barbuda compared to St Bath
Look at the average size of proposed developments in Barbuda compared to St baths
St Bath has small intimate high quality facilities. What is being planned is gauche and without class.
St Bath has quality of life regulations that restricts the load low life behavior that is intruding into Barbuda..
Barbuda can never achieve St.Bath standards so long as the crass belligerent behavior allowed in from across the Caribbean that has infiltrated the Barbuda community is allowed to go on.
* there
If Barbuda is not heading into Apartheid territory, what is the thinking and reason for the passenger structure at the bes airstrip called Barbuda International Airport ?
How is it any different from the classical definitions of Apartheid practices?
@Casual Observer: Anyone using the term Apartheid to describe anything in Antigua/Barbuda is an idiot. Educate yourself. Speak to some of the middle aged South Africans (both black and white) who live here or visit about your wacky theory of an Apartheid island and watch their reactions! You will be given a rude awakening before they walk away in disgust. There are private beaches/communities everywhere so what’s your point again? Making it about race shows your ignorance. Blaming white folks for all the ills on Barbuda is a clown comment not to be taken seriously.
What is the reason for the passenger structure at the new airport? A similar process like at VC Bird; commercial jets and their passengers get processed at the main terminal, private jets on the other side. This is routine for airports everywhere. It has nothing to do with race, it’s all about the money.
This man is always talking foolishness. Well, I guess his utterances are for his “lap dogs” to lap up then sing his praises.
Jajaja
Pedophila /:- see Barbuda’s own “marine biologist” for that me amigo. It’s known.
Private FBO has nothing to do with race. So white antiguans can use it but blacks cannot. I see. It’s about money and planes.
Do nothin but complain about nothin. Complain but sit at your home expecting checks. Sad.
@Stingray: As long as you’re making money from your boat outtings of “tourist,” the quality of Barbudans lives means absolutely nothing to you.
You should stop eating so much 💩💩💩because it coming back out of your mouth.
@♥️💛🖤💚 You’re a clown! The 1,800 Barbudans quality of life will be significantly improving with all the investments and job opportunities you braindead moron! How are you so stupid? I eat just fine in Antigua, thank you very much.
@Stingray, 🤣🤣 only a JACKASS would waste time engaging with a “braindead moron.” 🐴🐴🐴
Barbudans don’t need you to speak for them; they can and are speaking for themselves. I’m yet to see a Barbudan expressing a positive sentiment about this
“wonderful development.” Barbudans are well aware that they are not going to be the ones getting RICH from this development.
You must be part of the self enrichment gang looking to make your millions off of Barbuda’s land.
@♥️💛🖤💚 I’m trying to educate you but you are right, I’m wasting my time dealing with your stupid ass! There’s no hope for fools like you so stay bitter, stay angry, stay stupid. Let me know how that works out for you!
Do you live in Barbuda? No? Then how many times have you been there? How many Barbudans do you really know? The ones I know – I have visited three times this year – are mostly excited with the changes that are coming. They are not expecting to become rich you idiot but do expect to see an improvement with the quality of the lives when it comes to job opportunities, pay, how they raise their children, etc. so that they don’t have to consider leaving for Antigua for a better standing of living.
It’s obvious that some people in this comment section has no vision.
PM don’t mind the noise, but people has to work for what they want. We’re not getting no reparation from England for slavery. It’s hard work build up countries not talking.
@Stingray: Typical egomaniac!
Your overinflated ego allows you to believe that your opinion really matters. Phuking
hilarious! 🤣🤣🤣
@♥️💛🖤💚 Not as hilarious as you Señor stupid! As I thought, you don’t give a crap about Barbudans or their situation, just your own xenophobia and chip on your shoulder. What really matters on this issue is the opinion of Barbudans and the government not narrow minded, uneducated idiots that scream “Apartheid!” at any perceived act of injustice. I bet if Gaston Browne was white, you would scream “Apartheid!” every time your water was turned off! As the saying goes, if you’re right, you’re right and if you’re wrong, you’re wrong. In your case, I will add, if you’re a stupid xenophobe, you’re a stupid xenophobe!
@Stingray, and exactly what situation are Barbudans in? Are Barbudans unaware of their “situation.” FYI, my water can’t ever be get shut off; but, that was a good point about shutting off of water and Apartheid –as there are certain areas in Antigua where water is never shut off. Care to guess which areas?
I wonder what you think writing “you’re a stupid xenophobe” does? Did it make you feel big and strong? 🤣😂😂😂🤣
Btw, if your intention was to insult me…I would first have to value your opinion, Sambo.
@♥️💛🖤💚 Insults?! Awwww….does the truth hurt? Good! Keep blabbering fool. Half of the island must hear me laughing! Feel big and strong? Physically, I am big and strong but what’s even bigger, stronger and more important is my mind especially when compared to your xenophobic, terrified, bird brain. Why are you so scared? I plan on visiting Barbuda again for a day or two in December. I’ll be sure to speak to the locals again (unlike you who likes to speak FOR them but not TO them) but this time I’ll ask them if what is happening there resembles South African society during their institutionalized segregation. You want to come along? I hope you have good sea legs and don’t throw up all over the place!
@Stingray, so you can’t answer the question of what situation Barbudans are in? There are a least 2 Barbudans on this thread — why don’t you tell them about their situation
And, just in case you’re not aware, when your 1st. response to a comment is an ad hominen, you’ve already lost the argument.
FYI, hydrocephalus doesn’t mean you have a big 🧠, egomaniac!
@♥️💛🖤💚 Unlike your narrow minded, xenophobic, racist ass, I let the majority of Barbudans and the government speak for themselves. And yes, governments do make decisions that people don’t like but so is life. Again, I don’t speak FOR them which you love to do as some kind of delusional, self-appointed “People’s Ambassador to the Oppressed, Enslaved People of Barbuda”. I’ll be speaking to some Barbudans again, face to face, in a couple of months; they will update me on THEIR SITUATION since the last time we met. Did you protest at the new airport or go to PLH and stand at the main gate with a sign crying “Apartheid!” while your Antiguan & Barbudan brothers and sisters on security detail laughed at your scrawny ass? Of course not, you’re just a typical keyboard blowhard (do you even live in Antigua?!) with a hatred of white folks and their “evil ways”. Change is coming and you aren’t going to do shit to stop it. Cope and seethe.
There are no FYI’s coming from you. You have no information whatsoever for me.
@Stingray, ohh, it’s my “white people hatred” that got you panties in a bunch. Well carry on with your madness. Its a new day, and your low T levels got you acting like a real bi*ch — you’ve got more estrogen floating around in you blood then me, a female. I’m a homophobe too😂 I have no more time to spend with lgbtqrstuvwxyz😜
Thanks for the laughter!
@♥️💛🖤💚 Your hate makes me laugh! It doesn’t change a thing! Male, female, trans, whatever you are, you’re still stupid! Run along dummy. I’ll see you in Barbuda – Nah, I won’t. LMAO!
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