The Government of Antigua and Barbuda is moving forward with plans to establish a dedicated Land Registry in Barbuda, with Cabinet approving a series of recommendations designed to strengthen land administration and improve property record systems on the island.
Cabinet has been informed that the Land Adjudication process in Barbuda is nearing completion, clearing the path for the official launch of the Barbuda Land Registry on or around August 31, 2026.
As part of the initial rollout, Cabinet approved a centralised management arrangement operating under the existing Land Registry system in Antigua. Under this model, Barbuda land records will be created, maintained and managed through the current Land Registry framework during the transition phase, allowing authorities to draw on existing systems, staff expertise and operational structures.
Officials confirmed the decision was made to reduce operational challenges that could arise from attempting to stand up a fully independent registry office in Barbuda within a compressed timeframe. Factors considered included concerns over staffing, infrastructure, procurement and training.
Despite the centralised approach, Cabinet acknowledged the importance of accessible services for Barbuda residents. It approved continued assessments into the potential future establishment of a satellite Land Registry office on the island, should demand warrant it.
Preparations are also set to begin for staffing, recruitment and training to support the registry's operations. Temporary measures — including remote learning platforms and interim facilities — may be employed to facilitate onboarding during the early stages.
Cabinet described the Barbuda Land Registry as a major step forward for land governance and transparency. The system is expected to improve public access to land services, strengthen confidence in property transactions and provide greater legal certainty around ownership records.
The development comes as the government simultaneously advances a separate but related initiative to make land available to Barbudans for $1. Authorities are currently preparing 216 acres at Louis Hill for clearing and eventual sale under that programme.
