Fraser Blocks Plan To Restrict The Baths
Deputy Premier Julian Fraser has rejected proposals to restrict public access to The Baths and Devil's Bay for cruise passengers. Fraser emphasized that the Virgin Gorda landmarks must remain open to all residents and visitors, calling for a comprehensive carrying-capacity study instead of exclusive commercial closures.
Deputy Premier Julian Fraser has firmly rejected proposed restrictions on public access to The Baths and Devil's Bay in Virgin Gorda, declaring that the territory's iconic natural landmarks must remain fully accessible to residents and visitors alike. Fraser, who holds ministerial responsibility for the environment and natural resources, stated that even partial or limited closures would directly conflict with government policy and the legislative framework governing universal beach access in the British Virgin Islands.
He emphasized that these natural treasures belong to the people of the territory and cannot be privatized or cordoned off. The issue emerged after the National Parks Trust confirmed it was in negotiations with an international luxury cruise operator to reserve The Baths and Devil's Bay exclusively for cruise passengers on nine mornings during the peak tourism season.
Under that proposed arrangement, local residents and regular visitors would have been barred from entering the parks during those designated hours. Following an official meeting on August 28 with National Parks Trust Chairman Ayana Hull and Director Dr. Cassander Titley-O'Neal, Fraser made it clear that while the Trust's conservation and operational roles are respected, the government has a duty to intervene when public rights are compromised.
Ninth District Representative Vincent Wheatley also opposed the commercial arrangement, noting that similar daytime restrictions planned for cruise days were halted in July 2021. Rather than adopting exclusionary practices that prioritize specific commercial groups, Fraser has proposed conducting an in-depth carrying-capacity study across The Baths, Devil's Bay, and other high-traffic national parks.
The study would scientifically assess environmental, physical, and operational thresholds to establish sustainable hourly and daily visitor caps. Fraser noted that a carrying-capacity study will allow the territory to move away from ad hoc decisions and transition to an evidence-based management model.
He stressed that sustainable tourism and guaranteed public access are not competing goals, urging authorities to preserve the experience for everyone without sacrificing the public's right to enjoy the islands' natural heritage.
Primary source: BVI News