News

On Wednesday, 18th March, 2026, residents of Big Yard, Largo Height, an area in the West Kingstown constituency, received a visit from a team of Government Ministers as part of ongoing efforts to address community concerns related to housing and infrastructure.

The visit brought together Parliamentary Representative for the West Kingstown constituency and Minister of Health, Wellness, Environmental Health and Energy, Hon. Daniel Cummings; Minister of Housing, Land Management, Urban Development and Informal Settlement Upgrading, Hon. Andrew John; and Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Physical Planning, Hon. Nigel “Nature” Stephenson.

Ministers John and Stephenson toured sections of Big Yard under the guidance of Minister Cummings and, as a result, gained first-hand insight into a number of longstanding issues affecting residents.

Among the issues were housing conditions associated with informal settlements (commonly referred to as squatting), animal farming, and property access.

In addition to housing, the team assessed the condition of footpaths used daily by residents. Minister Cummings stressed that proper access routes remain critical in the area because the terrain often limits easy movement and emergency access.

Public health and environmental issues were also a major focus of the visit. The Ministers paid particular attention to the presence of pig pens and chicken pens located in close proximity to homes. Such practices, while common in some communities, can raise concerns relating to sanitation, waste management, and overall environmental health.

Minister Cummings said that he has, in the past, aided pig farmers in constructing proper soakaway systems. He said these systems, once installed and used, take care of foul odours and, as a result, allow people to make a comfortable living while respecting their neighbours.

The multi-ministerial approach underscored the Government’s intention to take a coordinated response to the issues identified, linking housing development, infrastructure planning, and public health in an effort to improve the lives of residents.

Minister John and Minister Stephenson said the visit was informative and, as a result, they will plan interventions aimed at improving living conditions in the area.

SOURCE: Agency For Public Information (API)