Government said it welcomes a proposal from a group of international investors to develop the Fort James Harbour peninsula into a modern marina and mixed-use waterfront destination.
The project, presented to Cabinet recently, outlines an ambitious plan to transform the Fort James Harbour area into a vibrant waterfront community that blends heritage preservation with tourism, recreation and residential development.
According to the investors, – per Cabinet Report – the first phase of the project will involve an estimated US$150 million investment focused primarily on constructing a luxury mega-yacht marina capable of accommodating at least 50 mega-yachts.
The development would also include supporting marina infrastructure as well as commercial and hospitality offerings such as boutique accommodations, designer retail stores, and high-end restaurants.
Plans for the wider development envision a mixed-use village linking the harbour, Fort James Beach and surrounding areas. Proposed features include cultural retail spaces, entertainment venues, arts programming, seasonal events and public gathering spaces.
Investors also presented concepts for the adaptive reuse of the historic Fort James hilltop as a destination dining and special-events venue.
Additional features under consideration include landscaped pedestrian pathways, waterfront promenades and community spaces designed to maintain the natural beauty and historical significance of the area.
Cabinet members acknowledged the potential economic benefits of the project, including increased yachting traffic, expanded tourism activity and the creation of new employment opportunities.
However, officials stressed that the proposal remains at a preliminary stage and will undergo the normal review process, including environmental and planning assessments.
Government officials reiterated their commitment to encouraging responsible investment that supports economic growth while protecting Antigua and Barbuda’s environmental and historical assets.
