The government says it plans to accelerate efforts to remove derelict buildings from St. John’s as part of a broader campaign to transform the appearance and functionality of the capital city.

The initiative was highlighted Tuesday during the 2026 Throne Speech delivered by Governor-General Sir Rodney Williams at the ceremonial opening of Parliament.

According to the speech, the government views the condition and aesthetics of St. John’s as an important part of its wider economic and urban development agenda.

“As my Government sets out to make our country an economic powerhouse, the aesthetics of our capital city cry out for attention,” Sir Rodney said.

The Governor-General said Urban Transformation Minister Rawdon Turner has been tasked with removing abandoned and dilapidated structures throughout the city and replacing them with new developments or restored spaces.

“Minister of Urban Transformation, an architect by profession, has been tasked with removing derelict buildings from St. John’s and to turn those blighted spaces into places of interest or new ownership, in a very short time,” the speech stated.

The government also appealed to private property owners within the capital’s commercial district to renovate and repaint their buildings as part of the city’s renewal effort.

“My Government encourages all property owners within commercial St. John’s to renovate and to paint their properties,” Sir Rodney said.

The speech pointed to several government-led refurbishment projects already underway, including upgrades to the St. John’s Police Station and Government House, which the administration described as examples of the type of renewal it hopes to expand across the capital.

“The refurbished Government House, resplendent in its beauty, is also an example of renewal of excellence,” the Governor-General said, while noting that the National Archives building is next on the refurbishment list.

The Throne Speech also referenced concerns about conditions inside some government buildings, with the administration pledging to address mold and other environmental hazards affecting public servants.

“My Government assures all of its employees that the removal of mold and other sickening vectors, from spaces where employees spend their workdays, will be made safe for all,” Sir Rodney said.

The urban renewal initiative forms part of the government’s wider development agenda following the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party’s victory in the April 30 general election.