Waiting Disaster

An old, crumbling structure in the heart of Roseau is alarming many concerned citizens and employees of various businesses near the property, who describe it as "a disaster waiting to happen." Many fear that the authorities' inaction will lead to tragedy, with an innocent life potentially paying the price.

An employee working near the dilapidated building on Jewel Street, a few steps away from the cruise ship berth and the old Market, expressed frustration and fear, saying, "Every day, I walk by this building to get to work. It's terrifying. This building could collapse with a strong wind or a heavy downpour. What are we waiting for—a catastrophe?"

The Sun has learned that the Roseau City Council has raised formal concerns, writing to the Planning Division and the Traffic Department about the deteriorating structure. They have requested that the street be closed to protect the public. Sources reveal that several business owners and their employees, including a nearby government department, have supported the proposed measures.

The streets in question are heavily trafficked by pedestrians and vehicles, increasing the possibility of an accident. When The Sun visited the area on Friday, passersby expressed anxiety about walking near the building.

"Every time I walk there, I walk fast, fast, and I always look up, wondering if today is the day it all comes crashing down."

Attempts to interview Thomas Baptiste, the City Clerk and CEO of the Roseau City Council, and the head of the Physical Planning Division were unsuccessful.

When contacted, a member of the Traffic Division said, "We cannot just shut down every street people complain about. We need proper authorisation before taking such action." Former Chief Physical Planner Annie Edwards has publicly criticised the situation, calling it "shameful and disgraceful" that the building has been allowed to deteriorate to this extent. Edwards argues that property owners should be held accountable for maintaining their buildings in the city, particularly when public safety is at stake.

"It's disgraceful to let your building in the city deteriorate until it becomes a hazard to pedestrians," Edwards stated. "A tax should be imposed every day the building remains in that condition. People must take responsibility for their properties, or we will continue to see this negligence."

Another environmentalist highlighted the health risks posed by the abandoned building, stating, "With the building left in this dilapidated and abandoned state, it's a perfect breeding ground for rodents and other pests. These creatures don't stay confined to one space—they spread to neighbouring areas, putting the entire community at risk of diseases."