Placencia Fights for Its Point: Gov’t Seeks Deal to Reclaim Beloved Beach  

Earlier this month, we brought you the story of Placencia Village residents rallying for the return of a cherished piece of coastline, Placencia Point. It’s more than just a beach; it’s the cultural heart of the community and the iconic home of Lobster Fest. But right now, it’s in private hands, and villagers say that it just doesn’t sit right. They believe the land, rich in history and tradition, should belong to the people. After a protest earlier this June, the pressure is on. So, what’s the government doing about it? Minister of Natural Resources Cordel Hyde says they’re working on a deal with the landowner—and in the meantime, he’s asked that the community be allowed to host this year’s Lobster Fest on the site. Here’s where things stand.

 

Cordel Hyde, Minister of Natural Resources

“We met with the village council recently. That has been on the table for a bit. The beautiful Placencia point has been in private hands from the 1870s. It changed hands in 2022. The new owners have ambitious plans. But that area is near and dear to the Placencia Village Council, and they appeal to us to acquire it for a public purpose. We initiated that by doing a first publication in July 2023 which initiated a discussion between us and the owners. We are kind of far a part in terms of value to us and what the owners want. The owners want four and a half million, our valuation is closer to one point three. We have spend some time trying to reach some middle ground and we have not been successful. The village is worried about their ability to host the lobster fest there in the coming weeks. We have written to the owners to so do and then we will reach an agreement, and we are hopeful we can reach an agreement in time.”