Residents Targeted to Move Into Pelican Court by January 2027

Residents displaced by the Booby Alley redevelopment could begin moving into the new housing development by January 2027, according to Prime Minister Gaston Browne. Speaking on the Browne and Browne Show, Browne said preparations are continuing ahead of occupancy, including legal arrangements, landscaping and the establishment of rules for residents. The 150-unit development will officially be named Pelican Court and is expected to provide new homes for more than 300 former residents of the Point community. The EC$50 million project, funded through a grant from the People’s Republic of China, replaces the former wooden dwellings with two-bedroom, condominium-style units spread across nine buildings. While the development is scheduled to be handed over on October 30, ahead of Antigua and Barbuda’s 45th anniversary of independence, Browne said residents are expected to begin occupying the homes in January. The Prime Minister also addressed questions surrounding who will qualify for the new units. He explained that former property owners are entitled to replacement accommodation, but children or other relatives who previously lived in those homes would not automatically receive separate units free of charge. Family members seeking their own accommodation may instead have opportunities to purchase or rent available units. Browne said the government will oversee the allocation process and introduce regulations aimed at protecting the development and maintaining acceptable community standards. He warned that tenants could face eviction for serious breaches, including involvement in the sale of illegal drugs. Other preparations include examining options for additional backup water storage, establishing waste-disposal guidelines and helping residents obtain replacement furniture through credit arrangements. Plans are also being considered for improvements extending towards Fort James, including additional landscaping, lighting and security cameras. The Booby Alley redevelopment has been approximately eight years in the making, with its progress affected by disputes, legal challenges and the COVID-19 pandemic.