Physical Planning

National Physical Development Plan (Page 65 ff)

5.7 CARRIACOU-PETITE MARTINIQUE

1.1.1 Population and Housing Projections

By the year 2021 the population of Carriacou and Petite Martinique is projected to increase to 6,982 persons as compared to the population of 6,081 persons in the year 2001 (Table 5.1). Based on a projected average household size of 3.0 persons per household, there would be 2,327 households in the parish in the year 2021. This would represent an increase of 539 households over the 1,788 households that existed in the year 2001.

Assuming a household to dwelling unit ratio of 1:1, an additional 539 housing units would therefore be required to accommodate population growth between 2001 and 2021. This demand would require an allocation of 34 hectares of new housing lands, based on a density of development of sixteen (16) dwelling units per hectare.

5.7.2 Local Area Planning

Hillsborough Development Plan

With a view to enhancing the service function of Hillsborough as the primary service centre for Carriacou-Petite Martinique, a development plan should be prepared for the town. The plan should cover such matters as:

§ A defined town boundary, including provision for expansion of development.

§ Land use proposals, including definition of the town centre.

§ Provision for upgrading the system of community facilities.

§ Provision for environmental enhancement.

§ Development control policies for the town, including land use zones and development standards.

Provision must also be made for adequate levels of other supporting infrastructure facilities including an upgraded water distribution system and a centralised sewerage system, subject to the findings of a wastewater management study for the country.

5.7.3 Development Proposals

The Carriacou and Petite Martinique: Integrated Physical Development and Environmental Management Plan (1998) presented certain key development proposals for the islands, as follows:

§ Establishment of a system of parks and conservation areas including High North National Park, marine parks and conservation areas, mangrove swamps, and offshore islands.

§ Intensification of agricultural production and promotion of agricultural research, organic farming, and agro-processing.

§ Upgrading of onshore fisheries facilities and introduction of facilities for fish processing and packaging.

§ Promotion of ecotourism as the dominant theme of the tourism sector.

§ Provision of support for the local entrepreneurial spirit and formalisation and expansion of the trading sector.

§ Improvement of infrastructure facilities particularly water distribution, waste disposal, roads, and Lauriston Airport.

There is need to pursue the implementation of these proposals for an improved quality of life on the islands.