Cabinet Approves New Noise Control Framework for English Harbour
Antigua and Barbuda’s Cabinet has approved a new noise control framework for English Harbour, setting fixed operating hours for nightclubs and entertainment venues while assigning enforcement responsibilities to the National Parks Authority and the Royal Police Force.
The policy was agreed following consultations with residents, homeowners, hoteliers, business operators and law enforcement officials, as Cabinet sought to balance residential concerns with the economic and cultural role of nightlife in the tourism hub.
Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant said Cabinet reviewed existing noise regulations and “established a balanced, workable compromise that protects residential amenity while supporting tourism, culture and business activity.”
Under the new framework, clubs and entertainment establishments will be permitted to operate until 3 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. From Sundays to Thursdays, operating hours will be limited to 1 a.m.
“Following the discussion, Cabinet agreed to a framework which was accepted by the stakeholders,” Merchant said.
Extended hours may be approved for special occasions, including Sailing Week, public holidays and other major events, subject to authorization by the National Parks Authority.
“On special occasions, extended hours may be permitted, for example during Sailing Week, public holidays and other special events, subject to the approval of the National Parks Authority,” Merchant said.
Merchant said the framework reflects a consensus approach rather than a shutdown of entertainment activity. He cited remarks by Minister E.P. Chet Greene, who represents the area, emphasizing shared responsibility among stakeholders.
“He stressed that the objective was not to shut down music or nightlife, but to regulate activities in a manner that balances economic, cultural and residential interests,” Merchant said.
The policy also includes provisions governing daytime activity, with Cabinet agreeing that “there shall be no noise nuisance during daytime hours and sound levels must remain within acceptable limits at all times.” Operators will be required to adjust sound systems to reduce sound travel, while excessive amplification and external speaker placement are discouraged.
Enforcement of the new framework will be handled jointly by the National Parks Authority and the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda.
“It was also agreed that the National Parks Authority, in collaboration with the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda, will act as the custodians of this new framework,” Merchant said.
Operators who fail to comply may first receive warnings, followed by penalties or further enforcement action for repeated violations. The National Parks Authority will also be responsible for notifying the community in advance when extended operating hours are approved.
Merchant said Cabinet intends to review the policy after an initial implementation period.
“The arrangements will be reviewed after an initial period, taking into account the impact of major events such as Sailing Week,” he said, adding that adjustments may be made based on compliance levels, community feedback and overall effectiveness.
Cabinet believes the framework will allow entertainment operators to continue operating viably while preserving English Harbour as “a premier cultural and tourism destination,” Merchant said.
