Prime Minister Gaston Browne urged property owners in St. John’s to begin improving the appearance of their buildings ahead of major road and drainage works, arguing that simple cosmetic changes could significantly uplift the city while broader infrastructure upgrades are carried out.
Speaking during a public consultation on the future of the capital, Browne said many buildings do not require major reconstruction, but could be improved with basic repairs and upkeep. “Some of these buildings just need a little paint, maybe some windows,” he told the audience, suggesting that modest investments could have an immediate visual impact.
He said the government will move ahead with rebuilding roads and drains across the city, but stressed that public infrastructure upgrades alone will not be enough to transform St. John’s if private properties remain neglected.
Browne called for cooperation between the government and property owners, saying urban renewal requires action on both sides. While the state will handle major infrastructure works, he said owners must also take responsibility for maintaining and improving their buildings.
The prime minister said this shared approach would allow the city to improve more quickly, rather than waiting for all infrastructure works to be completed before visible change takes place.
VIDEO
WATCH: Prime Minister Gaston Browne says simple upgrades such as paint and windows can make a major difference in St. John’s, urging property owners to act while the government prepares to rebuild roads and drains.
Advertise with the mоѕt vіѕіtеd nеwѕ ѕіtе іn Antigua!
We offer fully customizable and flexible digital marketing packages.
Contact us at [email protected]
So during this popUP town hall meeting which was announced two days ago…did ANYONE remind Mr. Browne that he only granted 25yrs Duty & Tax free concessions to his family?? The rest of society has to fight tooth and nail to try maintain. Why wasn’t this initiative announce 5/6 years ago? Instead, now after the Govt has started to bulldoze indigenous properties, you come after the fact to announce concessions and the likes? Again, provide an atmosphere were the ordinary man can strive….get on the banks to free up some of the lending and you will see. Cant be that only the blonde hair & blue eyed get financing. Also…..same DCA is allowing those who “nah come from yah” to do as they like circumventing covenants and other building codes & processes.