Inside the Hangar Controversy: Who’s Trying to Privatize a Public Road?

In Belize City, a contentious debate has erupted over the future of the Hangar, a public road that some affluent seafront residents are attempting to privatize. On August 23, 2025, a group of homeowners in the Home Park area submitted an application to the Ministry of Natural Resources, seeking provisional approval to subdivide the Hangar and convert it into private property. The applicants, including prominent figures such as Louis Leslie, Henry C Fairweather, and JRD Holdings Limited, argued that the move was necessary to address safety concerns, prevent coastal erosion, and mitigate rising sea levels. However, the Ministry swiftly rejected the proposal, citing legal ownership issues, as the land in question belongs to the Government of Belize. This decision has sparked a broader discussion about public access to communal spaces and the influence of wealthy residents in shaping urban policy. Despite the rejection, the residents remain steadfast, issuing a press release to justify their actions and pledging to collaborate with the City Council and other stakeholders. The controversy raises critical questions about the balance between private interests and public welfare in Belize City.