The redevelopment project, part of what the Pierre Administration calls a historic agreement signed with GPH, includes the construction of a fisherman’s village at Bananes Bay in Castries. Though many of the residents there are squatters on SLASPA-owned land, the entity has pledged compensation and relocation support to affected households.

Speaking on condition of anonymity, a longtime shopkeeper and resident of the area expressed optimism about the proposed changes. “We've been seeing maps and all kinds of things and nothing has happened yet. But finally, I can say that this government will make something happen, a development happen,” he said. “But some people don't like change.”

While acknowledging the emotional and practical difficulties associated with relocation, the resident was frank about the harsh living conditions many currently endure.

“In reality, the quality and the standard of living aren’t to the level for a human being. Water: you cannot apply for it because that's not your land. Without water and current [electricity], you know, that's the main infrastructure for a human.”

According to the resident, a structured agreement is already in motion. “The agreement is that they're gonna pay you half of your money up front and when you demolish your house, you will get the other half. The money is reasonable. We don't have land papers. We squatted at our own risk,” he explained.

Despite not having legal title to the land, he commended the government’s recognition of the community’s roots and economic contributions.

“Government [is] making sure they put that there for fishers,” he noted.