A landmark legal dispute over public beach access in Barbados has been further delayed, with the Magistrate’s Court scheduling the next hearing in the protracted ‘Beaches Case’ for April 9, 2026. The case originates from an incident on Whit Monday (June 9, 2025) when several individuals allegedly trespassed at Laurys Bay in the St. Philip North constituency. Prosecutors contend the defendants unlawfully entered property associated with a private coastal development, while the accused maintain their actions were a legitimate protest against diminishing public access to Barbados’ shoreline. The repeated adjournments have drawn sharp criticism from defense supporters who characterize the delays as procedural abuse. Both sides await the 2026 court date as this socially significant case continues to highlight tensions between private development interests and traditional public beach rights.