The issue of noise pollution in the English Harbour reaches Cabinet for resolution

The issue of noise pollution in the English Harbour area, and which was raised a week ago in parliament by the area MP, has been brought to the Cabinet for a resolution.

At its meeting on Wednesday (the last for the year), the Cabinet met with key stakeholders from the area to address ongoing concerns regarding noise pollution, particularly arising from night-time entertainment activities within the National Parks jurisdiction.

Reports from the Cabinet said the meeting was convened to:

• Hear concerns from residents, homeowners, and hoteliers regarding noise nuisance;
• Allow club operators and business owners to outline the economic importance of nightlife activities;
• Review the existing legal and regulatory framework governing noise abatement; and
• Establish a balanced, workable compromise that protects residential amenity while supporting tourism, culture, and business activity.

According to the Cabinet Notes, the participants included the following interests;

• Homeowners and residents of English Harbour
• Restaurateurs, club operators, and hoteliers
• National Parks Authority (NPA)
• Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda

During the discussion, the stakeholders outlined that English Harbour is a shared space comprising three principal demographics:

1. Residents and homeowners, including families, school children, and elderly persons;
2. Hoteliers and guest house operators, whose guests expect rest and comfort; and
3. Entertainment and hospitality operators, whose businesses contribute significantly to the tourism economy and cultural vibrancy of the area

Parliamentary Representative, E. P. Chet Greene, emphasised the need for compromise, shared responsibility, and respect for all stakeholders. He stressed that the objective was not to shut down music or nightlife, but to regulate activities in a manner that balances economic, cultural, and residential interests.

The Minister proposed a structured operating framework distinguishing between weekends, weekdays, and special events, supported by enforcement and community notification.

Following discussion, Cabinet agreed to the following framework, which was accepted by stakeholders:

Operating Hours for Clubs and Entertainment Establishments

1. Fridays and Saturdays
   • Clubs and entertainment establishments may operate until 3:00 a.m.
2. Sundays to Thursdays
   • Operations must conclude by 1:00 a.m.
3. Special Occasions
   • Extended hours may be permitted for:
     • Antigua Sailing Week;
     • Public Holidays; and
     • Other special events, subject to approval by the National Parks Authority.
4. Daytime Noise

• • There shall be no noise nuisance during daytime hours, and sound levels must remain within acceptable limits at all times.

Cabinet further agreed that:

• Operators are required to adjust and calibrate sound systems to reduce sound travel and minimize noise pollution;
• External speaker placement and excessive amplification are discouraged;
• Music volumes should be managed in a manner that allows patrons to enjoy entertainment without unduly affecting nearby residences and hotels.

It was agreed that:

• The National Parks Authority, in collaboration with the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda, will act as custodians of the agreed framework;
• Operators who fail to comply may be subject to warnings, penalties, or further enforcement action for continued violations;

The National Parks Authority will be responsible for issuing approvals for special events and for notifying the community in advance when extended hours are authorised.