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Spring Bay National Park Closure Due to Erosion Control Efforts
The National Parks Trust of the Virgin Islands (NPTVI) has announced that Spring Bay National Park remains closed due to ongoing erosion control efforts.
In a statement issued today, March 2, NPTVI Chairman Clyde Lettsome addressed the public’s concerns over the park’s prolonged closure. He acknowledged the delays but stressed the NPTVI’s commitment to ensuring the long-term preservation of the park. “The works at the Spring Bay National Park are taking longer than expected,” Lettsome said. “However, the preservation and responsible development of our National Parks remain our highest priority.”
The closure is a result of long-standing erosion issues, which have been exacerbated by heavy rainfall. Previous efforts to address flooding and erosion had limited success, requiring further intervention to prevent further damage to the park. NPTVI officials are working with various stakeholders, including local representatives, to finalize protective measures. One such measure is the installation of gabion baskets—rock-filled wire structures designed to stabilize the area.
District Representative Vincent Wheatley was briefed on the progress of the project during a meeting held on January 16, where the next steps were discussed. “This initiative is part of the necessary actions to ensure the park remains accessible and well-maintained for residents and visitors in the future,” the statement from NPTVI noted. In addition, Lettsome acknowledged the role of Wheatley in securing funding for the project through the Environmental Levy, which had been delayed for several years.
While local residents have expressed frustration with the park’s closure, officials have emphasized that it is necessary for public safety while construction work continues. “We continue to request the public’s patience and understanding,” Lettsome said. “Heavy equipment and contractors are on-site, and for safety reasons, access to the park is restricted during this period.” NPTVI has committed to providing regular updates on the project’s progress and plans to reopen the park once it is safe for visitors.
Spring Bay National Park is known for its natural beauty, including granite boulders, white sand beaches, and tidal pools. It is a popular site for both locals and tourists.
For now, the public is advised to respect closure signs and avoid the area until further notice.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has identified the body recovered from the waters near Maria’s By The Sea Hotel as that of Vincent Warner, 47, of Tortola.
According to a statement issued by the RVIPF on Friday, officers recovered the body of a male individual from the sea near Maria’s By The Sea Hotel. “Officers are currently on scene,” the statement read. “Further details will be provided as they become available.”
Warner had been reported missing since May 26, 2025. Family members have since confirmed his identity to police.
He was described as having a slim build and a dark complexion, standing approximately 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighing around 170 pounds. He was the son of Viva Ham-Warner.
As of Saturday, the RVIPF has not released details on the cause of death. The investigation remains ongoing.
The Premier of the British Virgin Islands, Hon. Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley, has moved to reassure the public and international stakeholders of the Territory’s financial stability following the planned wind-down of Bank of Asia (BVI) Limited. In an official statement released Friday, Dr. Wheatley emphasized the government’s commitment to transparency, strong regulatory oversight, and the continued integrity of the Virgin Islands’ globally recognized financial services sector.
“As Premier, my priority is the stability and wellbeing of our Islands,” Wheatley said. “We are proud of the global confidence placed in our financial services sector, and I want to reaffirm that this Government remains focused on protecting that reputation.”
Wheatley praised the leadership of the Financial Services Commission (FSC) and the Virgin Islands Deposit Insurance Corporation (VIDIC), two key institutions responsible for regulating and protecting the Territory’s banking sector. He described both as operating with “professional expertise and international best practices” and expressed confidence in their ability to manage the wind-down process with diligence and in full compliance with the BVI’s regulatory framework.
The Premier also addressed public concerns over the placement of government funds with Bank of Asia, clarifying that such decisions are made within the Ministry of Finance by designated public officers, without any involvement from government ministers.
“Deposits such as these are strategies to diversify the Government’s financial portfolio,” he explained. “This is a practice that is commonplace and fiscally responsible across jurisdictions worldwide.”
To promote public trust and ensure transparency, Dr. Wheatley announced he has requested an internal audit of the specific transaction involving the Bank of Asia deposit. “I hope this will offer clear insight, foster confidence, and bring greater understanding to all,” he said.
The statement comes as the Virgin Islands continues to navigate its position as a global financial center, facing evolving international scrutiny and regulatory expectations. The Premier encouraged residents to rely on official sources—including the Government’s website and verified social media channels—for accurate updates on financial and governance matters.
“As Premier, I remain fully committed to protecting the public interest and to maintaining the strength and stability of our financial system,” he said. “This Government is moving forward with confidence, purpose, and unity. Together, we move ahead—with clarity, with strength, and with optimism.”
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) confirmed Friday that the body of a man was recovered from the waters near Maria’s by the Sea Hotel in Road Town.
Officers from the RVIPF responded to the scene shortly before noon, where the body was retrieved from the sea. The identity of the individual has not yet been released.
Police remained at the location into the afternoon, continuing their investigation. The circumstances surrounding the discovery remain unclear.
In a brief statement, the RVIPF said, “The body of a male individual was recovered from the sea in the vicinity of Maria’s by the Sea Hotel a short moment ago. Officers are currently on scene. Further details will be provided as they become available.”
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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