BVI to roll out beach management plans modelled on Long Bay project
Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley has announced that in 2025, several of the British Virgin Islands’ beaches will be managed through new plans inspired by the Long Bay, Beef Island Beach Management Project.
During his budget address on Monday, November 11, Dr Wheatley highlighted the dual role of BVI beaches as hubs for both tourism and local livelihoods.
“While we use our beautiful beaches for recreation and tourism, many of our people depend on them for a livelihood,” he stated, emphasising the need to reduce environmental impact.
The beach management plans will aim to balance environmental, commercial, and recreational interests, with Brewer’s Bay expected to implement a new plan soon. “This is part of a strategy to enhance the experience for residents and visitors, opening up new beaches and easing the burden on Cane Garden Bay Beach and the Baths,” Wheatley added.
In October, the government signed a $600,000 contract with DE Property Development to revitalise Long Bay Beach. The project, emphasising sustainable development, includes a vending zone with six units—three designated for full-service restaurants and bars—alongside outdoor dining and an office to support beach management. This development is part of the Long Bay Beach Management Plan, initially established to restore the beach’s ecosystem after significant damage from Hurricane Irma.
According to officials, these management efforts will protect the natural beauty of Long Bay while supporting local vendors, setting a model for other beaches across the territory.
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Those fun days on beef island beach are long gone…..Over and out!
the vendors are a shame. was better when it was kept in a natural state
Greed is what killed that beach just like what happened to cane garden bay
SMUGGLERS COVE
Very simple.
NO developments on any BVI beaches. All BVI beaches to remain in natural state.
No vendors, no buildings, no beach hut bars, no showers, no bathrooms, no car parks, NOTHING on the sandy beach!
Car parks are permitted in areas at least a 500 meters away from the beach at the nearest public road. Beaches are accessible by foot path only.
@ BVI Beach Management Plan.
I wholeheartedly agree with your suggestion.
I weep when I see the state that island’s beaches have been reduced to, all for the sake of the tourist dollar.
Long Bay is a disaster. We dont want any more beaches ruined by the dead hand of government. We dont need any more burgers joints or garishly painted seats no one uses or loud music.
Get your hands off nature