Environmental concerns rise as Barbuda Ocean Club’s golf course nears completion

Antigua and Barbuda: As the work on the 18-hole golf course on the island of Barbuda continues rapidly, environmentalists are raising concerns about its impact on the island’s fragile ecosystem. 

According to the reports, the project is part of the Barbuda Ocean Club and is being built inside it and is set to meet the end of year deadline. The club which comprises of a residential village offers the visitors a getaway to the ultimate Caribbean hideaway where a private paradise will await them and it is welcoming visitors since December 2023. 

Although the project offers several economic benefits, environmentalists and locals are expressing their concerns. In 2020, a complaint was filed by the Global Legal Action Network with the Ramsar Secretariat in Geneva. The complaint stated that the construction of the club destroyed crucial wetlands in Barbuda. 

Meanwhile, some documents have also pointed out the potential risks to humans and the island’s water system, while the Department of Environment in the country has also warned about threats to ecosystems and wildlife.

It is to be noted that project president Justic Wilshaw said that the construction is proceeding as per the plans and will not be affected because of any claims being made. 

During a recent interview, Wilshaw said that more than 40 staff members are working on the golf course everyday with plans to expand and around 20 to 30 new properties being establish annually. 

He further highlighted that more than 400 independent contractors are based on-site, and there are over 800 people working there daily. 

The project president added that the project will eventually have more than 400 properties which will require at least 2000 people to maintain them, making it a major endeavour. 

In spite of being proud of the size and progress of this major project, Wilshaw acknowledged that there are several challenges in the way. He also expressed his gratitude to the government and the people of Antigua and Barbuda who have shown their support to the project.