LISTEN: PM Envisions ‘Peace Beach’ as Place for Conflict Resolution and Environmental Learning

Prime Minister Gaston Browne says a new public beach and artificial reef project now under development at Barnacle Point could become a place where people gather not only to enjoy the coastline but also to settle disputes and learn about marine conservation.

Speaking on his weekly radio programme on Saturday, Browne outlined plans for the facility, which he has named “Peace Beach,” and said the project is progressing with the goal of having it substantially completed in time for the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).

“The whole idea too is that anyone who has any conflict, they can always go to Peace Beach to settle the conflict,” Browne said. “So it will be the 366th beach here in Antigua and Barbuda.”

The project is being developed on land adjacent to Barnacle Point and will feature an artificial beach and what Browne described as a specially designed artificial reef system intended to enhance marine life while creating a new public attraction.

According to the prime minister, the initiative originated after dredging work associated with the West Indies Oil Company’s liquefied natural gas project generated material that needed to be disposed of. Rather than transporting the dredged material out to sea at significant cost, Browne said it was decided that a portion could be used to create new beachfront land in the area.

He said the project carries personal significance, noting that it is named both for his commitment to peace and for his daughter, Peace.

The artificial reef component is expected to play a central role in the development. Browne said reef modules are currently being manufactured in the United States and are expected to arrive in Antigua within weeks.

“We are currently manufacturing the modules in the United States,” he said. “My understanding is that they should be shipped within the next week or two.”

Once installed, the structures will be designed to support the growth of marine ecosystems, including coral, sponges, lobsters and reef fish.

Browne said the reef system is being engineered using scientific specifications to create habitats suitable for different species.

“These reefs are constructed in such a way that they have specific types of openings and spaces to attract marine life,” he explained. “It’s not simply a matter of dumping rocks in the water.”

Officials also intend to landscape the area with coconut palms, sea grape trees and large almond trees, which Browne referred to as “peace trees.”

Beyond its recreational value, the prime minister said the project is intended to serve as an educational resource for young people.

“Our children, for example, can go there and observe the marine ecosystem,” he said.

The development forms part of broader efforts to address the decline of coral reefs and marine habitats affected by climate change and other environmental pressures.

Browne said the artificial reef will eventually be used to support coral restoration efforts similar to projects already underway in Barbuda.

“Most of our coral reefs have been bleached as a result of climate change,” he said. “This is our part in literally restoring the environment and even enhancing the environment.”

The prime minister also revealed plans for a second phase of the project that could include a monument honoring Antigua and Barbuda’s national heroes.

He said the concept envisions sculptures of the nation’s heroes seated together around a table.

“A second phase will involve having our national heroes sitting around the table having lunch,” Browne said. “That is the second phase, if we can raise enough resources.”

According to Browne, the project is being financed primarily by members of his family as a contribution toward creating a public space that combines recreation, environmental stewardship and national heritage.

The government hopes the completed facility will become one of the sites showcased when Antigua and Barbuda hosts CHOGM in November 2026.

Browne noted that King Charles III has championed environmental sustainability initiatives and said Peace Beach could demonstrate the country’s commitment to conservation and nature-based solutions.

In addition to the Antigua project, Browne said a similar marine restoration initiative has already been established in Barbuda, where artificial reef systems have been deployed to encourage marine biodiversity and protect coastal areas.

Work on Peace Beach is continuing, with heavy equipment currently being used to level the site and prepare the area for landscaping and reef installation.

Source: Prime Minister Gaston Browne on the Brown and Brown Show.

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