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Government Moves to Reclaim Pride in Communities — But Where Is the Line Between Order and Ownership? | VIDEO STORY

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Antigua and Barbuda is taking a hard look at the growing problem of abandoned and run-down properties — and asking who should take responsibility for cleaning them up.

Our Shermain Bique-Charles has that story. 

Government Moves to Reclaim Pride in Communities — But Where Is the Line Between Order and Ownership? | VIDEO STORY
Derelict Building in St. John’s
Shermain Bique-Charles

About the author

Shermain Bique-Charles is an accomplished journalist with over 24 years of dynamic experience in the industry. Renowned for her exceptional storytelling and investigative skills, she has garnered numerous awards that highlight her commitment to journalistic integrity and excellence. Her work not only informs but also inspires, making her a respected voice in the field.

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Comments (9)

  • Bianca October 22, 2025, 1:02 PM

    They better make sure this doesn’t turn into another political grab for land. I support the idea, but transparency is key! Publish the lists, give fair warnings, and make sure poor people don’t get robbed of their inheritance

  • Chacha October 22, 2025, 11:17 AM

    Good. One two houses cannot have the place so unity and nobody doing anything about it

  • Anonymous October 22, 2025, 8:48 AM

    I like the part about giving lower-income families a chance to buy the properties. That’s how you build community turning eyesores into opportunities.

  • Tromos October 21, 2025, 10:37 PM

    Some of these houses fester rats and rodents and so much nastyness. Bigtime environmental hazards we living around

  • Concerned Antiguan October 21, 2025, 9:46 PM

    This is one of those issues where you see the true connection between personal responsibility and national progress. If we all took care of our little piece, the whole country would shine.

  • Tamika October 21, 2025, 8:07 PM

    Some of these buildings are really an eye sore.

  • Rare Pearl October 21, 2025, 8:06 PM

    So if i have it correct the government can now take it over and sell it without the consent of the real owners.

  • Apex Jones October 21, 2025, 7:20 PM

    Some of the owners don’t want to sell the rundown property because they think it worth more than what they are offered, yet still they wouldn’t see to its upkeep. The government needs to pass legislation to take over the buildings one they abandoned for more than 5 years. They are an eyesore

  • Informed citizen October 21, 2025, 6:59 PM

    Reclaiming pride sounds nice, but when government start touching private property, that’s another story.

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