The owner of Pigs Paradise Antigua has thanked members of the public, government officials and other stakeholders after access to Mosquito Bay was restored following a period of disruption.
Chantelle Winter said the reopening of the Jolly Harbour North beach area came after what she described as a strong show of unity from Antiguans who raised concerns about restricted access and its impact on livelihoods.
“I would like to sincerely thank everybody who played a role in restoring the public access to the beach at Mosquito Bay,” Winter said, noting that fishermen, beach users and tourism operators were among those affected.
She credited the collective response, including a public petition, with helping to resolve the issue and prevent further restrictions. The petition, titled “We the People of Antigua and Barbuda,” calls on developers Albert Hartog and Orange Limited to support continued access to the area and allow the “Pigs in Paradise” attraction to operate.
Winter said the issue extended beyond her business, pointing to wider economic effects.
“The impact extended far beyond myself and my team. It affected tour guides, taxi operators, and their associations, boats, services, vendors, cruise ship partners,” she said.
She also thanked the Ministry of Tourism and other authorities for their role in resolving the matter and assisting with the relocation of her operation.
Winter stressed that the dispute was not politically motivated but centered on maintaining access to public space and protecting jobs.
“This has never been about politics. This was about protecting access, livelihoods, and ensuring the public space remains available to everybody,” she said.
Addressing criticism surrounding the attraction, Winter rejected allegations related to animal welfare and safety, saying strict protocols are in place.
“The well-being of our animals and the safety of our guests are of the utmost importance,” she said, adding that veterinary oversight and operational standards are maintained.
She said the business remains committed to operating within the law and contributing to the local economy, while remaining open to dialogue with stakeholders moving forward.
The petition launched by Winter argues that the attraction is a significant tourism draw and provides income for a range of local workers, including taxi drivers, tour guides, hotels and small businesses.
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