Finally! Preparatory work has started on the new Valley Main Road. This long-awaited development has been a sore spot for the general public for several years. The main road through the centre of the capital is probably in worse condition than any other road on island, and has passed the point of repair for what seems like forever. A few months ago, the Honourable Minister of Infrastructure, Mr Haydn Hughes, indicated that work was going to be done to redevelop The Valley Main Road. It seems he has stayed true to his word. However, one point of contention in relation to the road development — or rather three points of contention — was the news that three iconic tamarind trees would have to be uprooted to facilitate the road development. This was bitter sweet for many people because, while everyone welcomes the road development, many felt that the trees should not be destroyed.
For some persons this is an environmental issue as we have become increasingly aware of the importance of trees in combatting issues of global warming and climate change. In fact every year, for the past eight years, the United Nations has dedicated a day for highlighting awareness of the importance of trees and forests. Many of our people therefore decried the fact that some of the few large trees that exist in Anguilla were being destroyed.
For other persons, this was an issue of cultural and historic preservation. While many may just see trees — persons of my generation, and those who are deeply rooted in history, see the uprooting of the trees as a total disregard of our culture. Trees, especially these trees, have been gathering spots for generations. They not only provide shade, but they are places of trade. Under their branches, people of all walks of life find common ground; matters of national importance are debated; the latest gossip is shared. They are places of entertainment, whether for just a game of dominoes, some music, drinks or a neighbourhood lime. These trees have been landmarks for generations and are used as points of reference when giving directions. They are not just trees. They are part of the fabric and rustic charm of The Valley.
Unfortunately, the issue of the removal of the trees quickly became political — with anyone who opposed their removal being branded as a political opponent of the Government. However, I do not believe that to be true. I don’t think you will find a single person in Anguilla who is not in favour of redeveloping The Valley Main Road. I am of the view that persons believe the redevelopment could have been done in a more environmentally and culturally sensitive manner.
This debate, however, is now moot. Two of the trees were removed under cover of darkness in the wee hours of the morning of Wednesday 28th July 2021. It seems the appeals of the people, to do it differently, went unheeded. Nonetheless, we look forward to the road redevelopment — and we trust that Government will support initiatives to plant new trees so that future generations can also have the experience of “oneness” at these gathering spots.
It is clear that Minister Hughes is on a mission to make his mark during his term in office. Not only in relation to The Valley Main Road, but the George Hill By-pass and the resurfacing of the Clayton J Lloyd International Airport. We have also recently learnt that, beginning in December 2021, there will be direct American Airline flights between Anguilla and Miami. This holds great prospects for Anguilla, and we hope that the route becomes a permanent fixture. While there continues to be debate about whose initiative resulted in these developments, we must still give the Minister credit for his efforts. After all, what matters most is that Anguilla benefits.
