Cabinet Warns Illegal Structures in Barbuda Could Face Demolition

The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has issued a renewed warning that unauthorized structures erected in Barbuda without the necessary approvals could be demolished as the government moves to strengthen enforcement of the island’s land laws.

The warning came during Wednesday’s Cabinet meeting as officials received an update from Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin on progress toward the establishment of the Barbuda Land Registry and the government’s plans for land administration on the island.

According to Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant, Cabinet reiterated its position that any structures built without the required legal authority, approvals or permissions will be considered illegal.

“In such circumstances, the government will take the necessary enforcement action, including the demolition and removal of unauthorized structures in accordance with the law,” Merchant said while outlining Cabinet’s position.

The warning forms part of the government’s broader efforts to regulate land ownership and development in Barbuda as work continues on the establishment of a formal land registry system. Cabinet also reaffirmed its longstanding position that the Barbuda Council has no legal authority to sell, lease or otherwise dispose of land on the island and that any such transactions will not be recognized by the government.

Merchant said Cabinet is concerned about what it considers unauthorized land transactions and developments taking place outside the legal framework established by the state. During the briefing, he stated that the government is determined to prevent further illegal development and warned that anyone constructing buildings without proper authorization does so at their own risk.

At the same time, officials sought to reassure residents who have long occupied land in Barbuda that they will have an opportunity to formalize ownership through the government’s proposed land registration programme. Merchant said individuals who have lived on lands for extended periods would be eligible to obtain legal ownership documents through the new system, including under the government’s planned $1 land initiative for Barbudans.

Cabinet maintains that the establishment of the Barbuda Land Registry will provide greater certainty, transparency and security in matters relating to land ownership and development while ensuring that future projects proceed in accordance with the laws of Antigua and Barbuda.

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