Government to establish special Demolition Unit to address Derelict Properties
In an effort to address the prevalence of derelict properties in Antigua and Barbuda, the nation’s government is set to introduce a special demolition unit to work on eliminating the problem. The initiative was mentioned by Prime Minister Gaston Browne on his weekly radio show.
“To address the issue of derelict properties, we are now establishing a special demolition unit, in which these properties will be marked – we’ll go through all the legal processes – and the derelict properties will be demolished”, said Prime Minister Browne.
The initiative has been brought forth in the broader context of renovating the island’s infrastructure and improving community aesthetic, especially in urban areas. In Antigua and Barbuda, there has been a marked increase in public conversation about abandoned buildings that have become eyesores, facilitating health hazards and rodent infestation.
The drive to improve this aspect of the nation’s infrastructure led government to pass legislation making it easier to combat instances of property dereliction. The law allows for the court to grant permission to the government – following notice to the last-known owners – to address any hazards relating to the derelict property. If owners do not comply, the government can forcibly acquire the buildings.
“If there’s persistent delinquency in which you’re not paying property taxes, you’re not paying to keep these lots clean, then obviously there will be consequences”, the PM stated. “We are not trying to disinherit anyone of their land, but we cannot allow these communities to remain in this derelict state”.
This story was first published by Antigua News on August 24, 2025: antigua.news/2025/08/24/government-to-establish-special-demolition-unit-to-address-derelict-properties. © 2025 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.
About the author
Orville Charles grew up in Potters Village, Antigua. After graduating from the University of Baltimore with a degree in Digital Communication, he spent years in the Social Work field, serving vulnerable populations and doing community outreach. He is an avid student of History, with many years of freelance experience in Multimedia.
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