The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has approved the engagement of Smith Warner International Limited (SWI) to conduct a comprehensive Baseline Coastal Assessment and Preliminary Engineering Design for Fort James Beach, marking a major milestone in the Government’s plans to transform the area into the Fort James Renaissance Park.

The decision follows the Government’s recent announcement of a EC$5 million investment in the redevelopment of Fort James, a project aimed at restoring one of the nation’s most historic coastal areas while creating a premier destination for recreation, tourism and cultural activities.

Cabinet Meeting (photo courtesy Office of the Prime Minister)

Cabinet was advised that Fort James Beach has experienced varying levels of coastal erosion over several years, making it necessary for any redevelopment plans to be guided by scientific data and engineering expertise.

Under the approved arrangement, Smith Warner International will serve as the lead coastal engineering consultant and will oversee the technical aspects of the project, including coastal assessments, numerical modelling, options analysis, and the preparation of preliminary engineering designs and recommendations for beach restoration and stabilization.

The consultancy will examine shoreline stability, erosion patterns, sediment movement, wave and current conditions, climate resilience, and the long-term sustainability of proposed interventions.

The study is also expected to identify the primary causes of erosion at Fort James Beach, determine the most appropriate restoration and stabilization measures, assess the availability of suitable sand resources, evaluate drainage and water quality impacts, and recommend engineering solutions that preserve public access, recreational activities, swimming safety, and environmental integrity.

Cabinet noted that the consultancy will be carried out in phases, beginning with the collection and analysis of coastal and historical shoreline data. Subsequent stages will involve the development and testing of engineering options before preliminary designs and implementation recommendations are prepared.

The Government said this phased approach will ensure that future investments in Fort James are based on evidence and are capable of withstanding the impacts of storms, sea-level rise and climate change.

Officials stressed that the Fort James Renaissance Park is envisioned as far more than a beach enhancement initiative. The broader redevelopment plan seeks to revitalize the area into a world-class public space that celebrates Antigua and Barbuda’s heritage while supporting tourism, recreation, entrepreneurship and community engagement.

Cabinet expressed confidence that the work undertaken by Smith Warner International will provide the technical roadmap necessary to protect and restore Fort James Beach while ensuring that future investments deliver long-term economic, environmental and social benefits.

The approval of the consultancy represents the first major technical step in the realization of the Fort James Renaissance Park and underscores the Government’s commitment to transforming the historic area into a resilient, attractive and internationally competitive destination for generations to come.