Basseterre, Saint Kitts, 21 July 2026 – The Ministry of Sustainable Development has successfully concluded efforts to facilitate the safe and orderly relocation of farmers who were unlawfully occupying residentially designated lands, particularly in the Lemon Hill and Cabbage Tree areas.
This resolution follows a recent (31 March 2026) court ruling which dismissed an injunction filed against the Ministry by one of the aggrieved farmers. The decision cleared the way for the amicable settlement and transition of a matter that has been under engagement since 2022.
All affected farmers, with the full support of both the Ministries of Sustainable Development and Agriculture, agreed to relocate their operations to lands officially designated for agricultural use in accordance with the National Physical Development Plan. As a result, lawful landowners in these areas are now able to access their properties and proceed with surveying and construction activities.
Through months of engagement, negotiations and support strategies, relocation efforts have been undertaken with careful consideration for both agricultural livelihoods and national physical planning priorities, in alignment with the Sustainable Island State Agenda (SISA).
The Ministry of Sustainable Development, as the authority responsible for lands designated for residential and commercial use, remains committed to ensuring that landowners can access and utilize their properties without obstruction.
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