National Parks Trust apologises for Spring Bay closure

Spring Bay National Park.

The National Parks Trust of the Virgin Islands (NPTVI) has apologised for the ongoing closure of Spring Bay National Park, citing urgent restoration work to address severe erosion and protect the site’s long-term sustainability. 

The NPTVI released a statement on March 2 following public concerns surrounding the closure, explaining that the decision to close the park was made after consultations with some of its primary users.

Chairman of the Board of the NPTVI, Clyde Lettsome said officials determined that conditions at the site had become unsafe due to persistent erosion, which had worsened over the years, particularly following heavy rainfall. 

“There have been growing concerns over constant erosion prior to 2017, particularly the damage that occurs after heavy rainfall events. The destruction sustained at Spring Bay made it unsafe for use by the public,” Lettsome said. 

He added that previous efforts to control erosion had failed, making further intervention necessary. “We took steps to mitigate flooding and erosion without defacing the beach in perpetuity. Previous attempts were ineffective. Without immediate intervention, the degradation of this beloved natural site would continue to threaten its long-term sustainability.” 

Lettsome said the NPTVI notified Ninth District Representative Vincent Wheatley on January 16 that a meeting was being held to finalise the layout of Gabion Baskets, a structure designed to stabilise the area and prevent further erosion. 

“This initiative is just one of several necessary measures to ensure that this National Park remains accessible and well-maintained for both residents and visitors over the long term,” he explained. 

Limited funding

Funding issues have also hindered restoration efforts. The Trust has been awaiting alloted funding from the Environmental Levy for several years.

“Many of the much-needed improvements to Spring Bay National Park and the other national parks would be effectively and efficiently addressed through the urgent allocation of these funds,” Lettsome said.

The NPTVI has faced other challenges in recent years. In 2023, Director Dr Cassander Titley-O’Neal told the Standing Finance Committee that the Trust had an ageing workforce, limited resources, and a backlog of maintenance issues stemming from hurricanes and budget constraints. 

The Trust has urged the public to comply with closure signs posted at the Spring Bay entrance, warning that ongoing construction poses safety risks. 

“Specifically, I plead with you to recognise and adhere to the closure sign at the entrance to the Spring Bay National Park. Heavy equipment and contractors are operating on site, and we cannot guarantee your safety in the park while works are taking place,” Lettsome said. 

He assured residents that the Trust remains committed to transparency and will provide further updates as progress is made.