PM Gaston Browne says Barbudans can accept or reject new land titles under a $1 programme. He spoke on Pointe FM on Saturday.

The government will move ahead with land sales and registration in Barbuda. It will also set up a Barbuda section in the national land registry.

Browne said eligible Barbudans could receive up to one acre for $1. He said the payment is legal, not commercial.

“Within a matter of months, we’ll be selling land in Barbuda,” Browne said.

“The Barbudans get it for one dollar, and even Antiguans as well will be able to buy land in Barbuda,” he added.

He explained the $1 is only legal consideration. He described it as symbolic.

“The dollar is like a gift,” Browne said. “It is just a legal requirement.”

The programme targets residents living in Barbuda after Hurricane Irma in 2017. However, officials will set rules to prevent misuse.

“We’re talking about those who’ve been living in Barbuda,” he said.

Barbudans who do not want freehold can choose leasehold instead. They may also choose no formal title.

“Our position is that those who do not want freehold can get leasehold,” Browne said.

“If you want neither freehold nor leasehold, that’s your choice,” he added.

Browne stressed that no one will lose existing land or homes.

“We’re not taking anything from anybody,” he said.

The first phase will focus on the Louis Hill area. About 115 acres are already set for parceling and development.

Antiguans and Barbudans outside the special category can still buy land. However, they must pay full market price.

“When we sell to Antiguans, they’ll have to pay the commercial value,” Browne said.

He said the plan modernises land ownership in Barbuda. It also aims to give residents legal documents for their land.

“What we’re seeking to do here is to empower the Barbudans,” he said.

Browne also cited Privy Council rulings. He said land in Barbuda was always vested in the Crown.

“The land was never vested in any individual,” he said.

“It was always vested in the Crown,” he added.

The government stated that major developments, such as PLH, will continue under lease arrangements.