Prime Minister Gaston Browne says the government intends to cut down Rat Island, located off the coast of St. John’s Harbour, to support future development and beautification projects.

Speaking on the Browne and Browne Show on Pointe FM, Browne said the small offshore island will be reshaped or leveled, with the material likely to be reused for land reclamation or other construction purposes.

“We’re going to cut down Rat Island,” Browne said. “We can use that material elsewhere — perhaps for reclamation or development purposes.”

The prime minister said the initiative forms part of a broader vision to modernize and enhance the country’s waterfront areas, especially as Antigua and Barbuda continues to expand its cruise tourism and port infrastructure through the Global Ports Holding partnership.

Browne said the transformation of the St. John’s Harbour area is key to creating what he described as a “modern, world-class capital,” capable of attracting both visitors and investors.

The proposed works would complement other coastal and urban improvement efforts underway, including new land-based facilities at the cruise port and ongoing city beautification initiatives.

“We are making progress in every aspect of our development,” Browne said. “Projects like this are about modernization, presentation, and pride in our capital city.”