Antigua’s ambitious initiative to revitalize its capital city has generated substantial public interest, with hundreds of residents participating in a comprehensive consultation session regarding the proposed redevelopment of St John’s. The Wednesday evening gathering at the Sir St Luce Center attracted widespread engagement, with additional citizens following proceedings through digital streams and local television broadcasts.
Prime Minister Gaston Browne expressed considerable encouragement regarding the participatory turnout, characterizing the public involvement as ‘exceptionally positive.’ He extended formal appreciation to both community stakeholders and residents for their substantive contributions, interpreting the robust attendance as indicative of broad support for the government’s urban renewal strategy for the capital.
The consultation assembled key governmental figures including Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin, Tourism Minister Charles Fernandez, Works Minister Maria Browne, and Urban Development Minister Rawdon Turner. The event also featured representation from multiple government agencies: APUA, the Development Control Authority, the Central Board of Health, the National Solid Waste Management Authority, St John’s Development Corporation, and Antigua Cruise Port.
Prime Minister Browne reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to maintaining transparent dialogue throughout the redevelopment process. He committed to conducting additional public consultations once the master plan reaches its finalized form, emphasizing that stakeholder collaboration remains imperative during all phases of the urban transformation initiative.