The Sustainable Island Resource Management Zoning Plan (SIRMZP) creates the platform for economic growth through the strategic zoning of land use activities in Antigua and Barbuda. The SIRMZP was prepared through a series of public and private sector consultations spearheaded by the Development Control Authority (DCA). The Plan seeks to meet the needs of residents who desire:
The Plan, developed by GENIVAR Trinidad & Tobago, recommends a hierarchy of settlements that entail two secondary towns which would complement the city of St. John’s. The villages of All Saints, and Codrington, in Barbuda, have been identified as the two secondary towns that possess the capabilities to be built upon. In addition to these secondary towns, seven district centres will facilitate light commercial and public sector amenities. By developing compact residential settlements, local communities and regional parishes will acquire distinct identities.
Stemming from the concept of mixed use developments, compact settlements will not only reduce traffic congestion in St. John’s city, but will enable vital the delivery of vital services the island. The establishment of mixed-use settlements will support the development of more localized economic growth centres and local employment, thereby enabling many persons to work and shop closer to home. The physical infrastructure of the surrounding environment will be enhanced to create areas that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
The Plan includes a zoning map for the expansion and development of key industrial sectors, such as agriculture and tourism, as well as areas designated for environmental protection. To maximize the benefits derived from land uses, the plan suggests less intrusive activities that could generate economic and recreational value. Once adopted by Parliament, property developers will be guided by a national agenda that delivers the overall sustainability goals.
Efficient land use planning has been used throughout developed countries to drive economies, and societal cultures whilst protecting the environment. The SIRMZP is one of many steps for the sustainable development of Antigua and Barbuda. The adoption of the Plan will also enforce development standards that avert residential developments in disaster risk areas and reduce the intrusive impacts of large industrial developments within residential communities.
Through collaborative efforts of the Ministry of Agriculture, Housing, Lands and the Environment, the SIRMZP is only a small yet significant deliverable as part of a much larger project titled: Demonstrating Sustainable Island Resource Management Mechanism (SIRMM) project. The GEF funded SIRMM project, originally developed and implemented by the Environment Division, seeks to attain sustainable development in Antigua and Barbuda through the efficient management of environmental resources. The SIRMZP Plan is an update of the National Physical Development Plan (NPDP) that will guide future land use developments to attain both economic stability and environmental integrity.
The Plan was presented to Cabinet for consideration on 15th November 2011. Copies of the Plan may be obtained at the offices of the Environment Division and Development Control Authority. Alternatively, an electronic copy is available at http://gefantigua.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/111018_Final-SIRMZP1.pdf.
For further information, kindly email sirmmab@gmail.com.
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