By Kisean Joseph
Peace, Love, and Happiness (PLH) has responded to a recent High Court ruling that has dismissed a case brought by the Barbuda Council alleging non-payment of lease obligations.
In an official statement, Justin Wilshaw, project president of the PLH project, expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision.
“We are pleased that, upon reviewing the facts, the Court affirmed that we have met all of our lease obligations,” Wilshaw said. He emphasised the project’s commitment to the local community, stating: “Throughout, we have worked to improve the quality of life for the local community, and we are eager to move forward in partnership with the Council.”
The origins of the dispute trace back to June 2020, when Mackenzie Frank, Vice Chairman of the Barbuda Council, first raised concerns about PLH’s alleged failure to meet payment requirements. Frank pointed to outstanding payments dating back to 2017, sparking a legal battle that has now reached its conclusion.
Last Thursday’s court ruling determined that PLH had indeed fulfilled its obligations, contrary to the Council’s claims. This decision aligns with PLH’s consistent stance throughout the proceedings that all payments were up-to-date, with some even made in advance.
One key aspect of the dispute involved the method of payment. The government had previously acknowledged PLH’s contributions to the airport development as a form of advance payment for lease obligations. This arrangement appears to have been a point of contention, with the Barbuda Council which said payments should’ve been made directly to the local government.
The PLH Project, which aims to develop luxury tourism facilities in Barbuda, has been a subject of both hope and controversy since its inception. Supporters view it as a vital source of economic development and job creation for the island, while critics have raised concerns about environmental impact and land rights.
Attempts to reach members of the Barbuda Council for comment have been fruitless.
