As a frequent visitor to Barbados since 1967, I have found it both disturbing and disappointing that the beaches, once renowned for their panoramic ocean views and cleanliness, have become somewhat tarnished.
I have visited many beaches in Barbados and have observed that the sea view is being dominated by an abundance of lounge chairs and large umbrellas to the detriment of those unable or unwilling to contribute to a commercial enterprise (the rental of chairs and umbrellas).
By being forced to sit behind this wall of chairs and umbrellas, the panoramic ocean view is now obscured. This also restricts families with children to sit further from the shoreline and it impedes their quick access to be able to reach their children frolicking at the water’s edge if needed. The safety aspect is being compromised.
I know that all beaches in Barbados are public. I understand that the (National Conservation Commission) NCC, under its enabling legislation, controls all aspects of overseeing the beaches in Barbados, e.g. placement of chairs and umbrellas.
Its role (Part II, 5(1) is, among other things:
• To control, maintain and develop the public parks, public gardens and beaches of Barbados;Â
• To maintain public access to, and to provide a lifeguard service at, such of the beaches of Barbados as it thinks fit;
• To secure the observance of sanitary and clean conditions and practices at, and in respect of, the public parks, public gardens and beaches in Barbados and such other sites, buildings or monuments of national interest as the Minister may designate.Â
I have also observed that most beaches and their corresponding parking lots are littered with all kinds of garbage, including condoms on Accra Beach.
Only one garbage bin is in sight on the entire beach.
Why is this Government department, in its control of the beaches, in contravention of the act?
No monetary gain can replace the beauty and cleanliness of Barbados if this practice is not addressed.
