Much seemed to have been made about Government’s involvement in the clean-up of a bush area at Rey Hill which in its original state was not only an unsightly scene, but probably one of foreboding given the deviant behaviour of idle and misguided youngsters these days.

Until a release about the matter came out from the Government’s Public Relations Office, it was thought by some people outside the vicinity that the land was cleared by a private person intending to build a dwelling house or business place. But even in residential areas not all the open land spaces should necessarily be used for living or commercial purposes. According to the release, the cleared ground is “designated to be turned into a social habitat for the further development of the youth.”

The release stated with much commendation that there was wholehearted participation by the men folk of Rey Hill in the clean-up campaign. From this, one may deduce that communities across the island may all be ready and willing to embark on any useful project which would enhance the social life of residents, particularly if the Government shows an interest which, in turn, would attract the participation of the people.

There are many acres of unused land everywhere. Although there is great sensitivity among property owners about land use matters, it may by possible to reach agreements whereby available lots may be used for recreational purposes on a long-term basis. If there is to be some form of compensation then this should be taken care of.

Community development, with the active participation of the people of the island, is a good way to continue to carry Anguilla forward. Clean-up campaigns and the designation of hitherto bush areas as social habitats may have positive results for youth development rather than dark and foreboding areas that may be breading grounds for mischief and other forms of unsocial behaviour.

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