The Fisheries Division of Antigua and Barbuda has issued a final warning to owners of abandoned fishing vessels, derelict vehicles and discarded fishing equipment at the Point Wharf Fisheries Complex, giving them until October 28, 2026, to remove their property.
The notice forms part of a wider cleanup initiative intended to address abandoned items occupying space at the facility. The Fisheries Division is receiving assistance from the National Solid Waste Management Authority, the Central Board of Health and the Development Control Authority.
According to the division, owners have received letters and notices about the abandoned property dating back to 2020. The latest warning indicates that authorities intend to move forward with the removal process rather than allow the situation to continue indefinitely.
The division has referred to the Litter Control and Prevention Act of 2019, which addresses abandoned or derelict vehicles, boats and fish pots within the definition of waste. It has also cited provisions of the Physical Planning Act that can support enforcement action involving the removal or disposal of items that create environmental or public amenity concerns.
The presence of abandoned equipment can create several problems at a working fisheries facility. It may occupy valuable space, contribute to an untidy environment and complicate efforts to maintain safe and efficient operations.
Owners who fail to comply with the deadline could face removal costs associated with clearing their property. The Fisheries Division has advised anyone seeking clarification to contact its offices at Point Wharf.
The initiative serves as a reminder that maintaining public facilities requires cooperation between authorities and property owners. The effectiveness of the cleanup will depend on whether the abandoned items are removed and whether arrangements are established to prevent similar problems from recurring.
