In a strategic move to address urban decay and congestion, Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne has put forward a novel proposal for the capital city of St. John’s. During a public consultation focused on urban redevelopment, Browne suggested that property owners could temporarily convert vacant lots—created after the removal of derelict structures—into paid parking areas, particularly within the central business district. This initiative is presented not as a mandate but as a viable option for landowners to generate interim revenue while contributing to city beautification. The Prime Minister emphasized that such productive use of cleared spaces would prevent idleness, reduce urban blight, and improve overall order. This proposal aligns with broader goals of easing traffic congestion, optimizing underutilized land, and supporting long-term urban renewal plans. The idea emerged from ongoing discussions among officials and residents about practical solutions to enhance the city’s functionality and aesthetic appeal amid challenges like parking shortages and redevelopment delays.
WATCH: PM Suggests Vacant Lots Could Be Used for Parking After Derelict Buildings Are Removed
