Long Look Social Complex Draws Criticism
A transitional facility and social complex under construction in Long Look has been criticised by local businesswoman Amberly Crabbe, who says residents were not consulted and fear the development will deepen long‑standing stigma. The government describes the project as a compassionate, first‑of‑its‑kind centre to support vulnerable people and a model for other communities.
Construction of a government‑backed transitional facility and social complex near Nottingham Estate in eastern Tortola has drawn public criticism from Long Look resident and businesswoman Amberly Crabbe, who says the community was not consulted and does not want the building. At the start of construction Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley called the project “more than a building,” saying it represented “an act of compassion” intended to help vulnerable persons and could serve as a model for similar initiatives in other communities based on need.
Crabbe, writing on Facebook, questioned the choice of location and said residents remain unclear about the facility’s purpose. She told BVI News there have been mixed explanations from unofficial sources — some describing it as a mental health building, others as a Safe Haven or a rehabilitation centre for people without means — and that Long Look people broadly oppose the project. “Long Look has been stigmatised for a very long time.
We are the ghetto,” Crabbe said, arguing the structure will reinforce negative perceptions and make some people more reluctant to pass through the area at night. She urged the Premier to halt construction and engage residents directly, suggesting the building instead be converted into a museum to preserve and celebrate Long Look’s heritage and resilience.
Government officials have said the facility is part of wider social development efforts aimed at supporting vulnerable members of the community. The Premier previously indicated that, depending on need, similar facilities could be developed elsewhere across the territory. For BVI residents, the dispute highlights two recurring policy issues: the need for clearer communication from government about the services a development will provide, and the importance of meaningful community consultation, especially in areas already affected by stigma or social disadvantage.
Neighbouring communities and residents who use the main east‑west routes will also want clarity about operational plans, security measures and referral pathways for services. Local advocates say transparency on who will be served, how the facility will be staffed, and what safeguards will be in place could reduce fear and misinformation.
Long Look residents and community leaders have called for another meeting with officials; the project remains under construction while public debate continues. Officials have reiterated the facility’s social aims but have not yet released detailed operational plans to the public. Residents and stakeholders say they will continue pressing for direct engagement and clear answers about the centre’s role in the community.
Primary source: BVI News