photo by Everton Barnes
After more than two decades of waiting, residents of Cobbs Cross and surrounding communities can finally celebrate the opening of their long-awaited health clinic, a modern facility symbolizing not just development, but dignity restored.
The grand opening drew a large turnout, including Prime Minister Gaston Browne, members of Cabinet, and senators. For area representative and Minister of Foreign Affairs E.P. Chet Greene, the moment carried profound meaning one that went far beyond the ceremonial ribbon-cutting.
photo by Everton Barnes
“This is not just about opening doors; it’s about keeping promises,” Greene told the gathering. “Today, we are living proof of a simple truth — promise made, promise kept.”
He reflected on the difficult history that led to this moment, recalling the closure of the former Cobbs Cross Clinic in 2003 after years of neglect. “It was a painful time,” he admitted. “The facility had deteriorated so badly that it became unfit for anyone to work in. It was a symbol of abandonment — both of the building and of the people it was meant to serve.”
But from that low point, Greene said, came renewed determination to deliver a health centre worthy of the community’s trust and pride. “Out of that disappointment grew a seed of resolve. We made a vow that day — to rebuild, to restore, and to give Cobbs Cross a clinic that its people could be proud of,” he said, crediting Prime Minister Browne’s “visionary leadership” in seeing the project through.
photo by Everton Barnes
The new facility, described as a state-of-the-art community health centre, will offer a range of essential medical services aimed at improving access to care for residents across the area.
Greene urged the community to take pride in the facility and safeguard it for future generations. “This building belongs to you,” he told residents. “Cherish it, protect it, and let it stand as a symbol of resilience and progress.”
photo by Everton Barnes
Looking ahead, the MP also revealed plans to expand the complex by acquiring nearby land for the construction of a dental and eye-care centre further strengthening healthcare delivery in the southern district.
The opening of the Cobbs Cross Clinic, Greene said, marks not just the return of a vital service, but the renewal of a community’s spirit.
I am happy for the people of Cobbs Cross I hope that it will be well maintained
Finally! After all these years, we have our own clinic again. The people of Cobbs Cross really deserve this. No more having to travel far just to see a nurse or doctor. Big up to everyone who made it happen!
It’s encouraging to see investment in healthcare. Now we need to make sure other rural communities get the same attention.
This one touch my heart. I remember when the old clinic used to be open back in the day. To see it return brand new …that’s real progress. Promise kept indeed!
It took more than two decades, 22 years of waiting, hoping, and sometimes doubting, but at last, the people of Cobbs Cross have their clinic back.
Always refreshing to read good news when I return from a hard day’s work
It wasn’t empty rhetoric. The former Cobbs Cross Clinic, closed in 2003 after years of neglect, had become a symbol of everything that frustrated rural communities. Talking about crumbling walls, leaking ceilings, and broken trust. Let’s look on the brighter side of how the Government before has failed us and wants to do it again. It’s like Trump and the US.
This is a huge win for primary healthcare. Strengthening community clinics takes pressure off the hospital. This is exactly the kind of investment we need across the island
This clinic means a lot for we down South. Too long people in this area been overlooked. Glad to see something positive finally happening right here in St. Paul
I love how the community came out for this. Shows people care about progress. Let’s keep pushing for better healthcare all over Antigua and Barbuda.
Great stuff. Make sure they have medicines eh. The other day no bandage at a popular cliniic
This is a huge win for primary healthcare. Strengthening community clinics takes pressure off the hospital. This is exactly the kind of investment we need across the island
A promise kept! It’s refreshing to see real development reaching our communities healthcare access is a must for everyone