GEF Antigua and Barbuda

Integrated Planning and Management for the sustainable use of Codrington Lagoon (Barbuda)

The island ecosystem of Barbuda has not been subject to the same intense levels of development as experienced by Antigua. This situation may soon change due to the increasing demand for residential accommodation and tourist developments.

A central feature of the island is Codrington Lagoon which is a unique and highly vulnerable component of Barbuda’s ecosystem that is of national economic and cultural importance. It is one of the largest lagoons in the Lesser Antilles and serves as a habitat and nursery for a range of marine species due to the sheltered lagoon, extensive fringing mangroves, and sea-grass beds. The lagoon also supports one of the world’s largest colonies of Frigate birds (Fregata magnificens) which have become a prized tourist attraction.

At present the lagoon is used for a variety of activities. The lagoon is impacted by over harvesting of marine resources, cutting of mangroves for charcoal production, and waste dumping near the coastline.

The status of the lagoon is under further threat from pressures to develop the waterfront on the outskirts of Codrington Village for residential purposes. The proximity of these lands to the lagoon, their exposure to storm surges, and the current lack of a central sewage system on the island are of particularly concern.

If Codrington Lagoon is to remain healthy, any development along the waterfront needs to be carefully planned and regulated particularly regarding accessibility to water, and proper liquid and solid waste disposal to preserve and protect this fragile marine ecosystem. The purpose of this project is to implement integrated planning and management strategies to ensure that development needs are met in a sustainable manner, and that conservation requirements are provided for.