Premier Urges Public Engagement with Virgin Islands Crown Land Policy

Premier and Minister of Finance, Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change, Honourable Dr. Natalio Wheatley, is calling on residents to actively participate in the ongoing public discussion surrounding the Virgin Islands Crown Land Policy.

Highlighting the importance of preserving land for public interest and ensuring accessibility to young individuals and families, Honourable Wheatley emphasized the significance of owning a part of their Virgin Islands legacy and creating generational wealth. He urged everyone to familiarize themselves with the policy and submit their ideas and concerns.

The policy encompasses various aspects, including the history of Crown Lands, the first-time homeownership program, commercial and agricultural land leases, and Crown Land application criteria.

Premier Wheatley emphasized the crucial role of Virgin Islanders in shaping the final framework for managing Crown lands, encouraging them to provide feedback and make their opinions heard.

The policy aims to protect the natural environment for present and future generations while conserving biodiversity and ecosystem integrity, particularly in regards to developments such as reclamations, docks, jetties, barge ramps, and seabed development.

Public consultations have already taken place in Anegada, Jost Van Dyke, Virgin Gorda, West End, Tortola, and Road Town. Further meetings with residents of the East End/Long Look Community are planned for a later date.

The Virgin Islands Crown Land Policy can be accessed on the Government of the Virgin Islands portal at bvi.gov.vg. Residents are encouraged to provide their feedback via email to nrl@gov.vg.