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The Physical Planning Unit (PPU) has warned that planning permission must be obtained before development or construction can place on the island. The PPU says permission must first come from the Planning and Development Authority, PDA, before any works could begin. The unit says it has observed an increasing number of persons and agencies undertaking construction without the required planning approval. It cautions that this trend is a matter of serious concern as unauthorized development can compromise public safety, environmental protection, and the orderly development of Montserrat. Persons who have already received planning approval are required to notify the Physical Planning Unit before commencing construction. This enables the unit to schedule the necessary inspections and ensure that the development proceeds in accordance with the approved plans and conditions.  The PPU warns that commencing development without planning permission constitutes a breach of the Physical Planning Act, and that it will take appropriate enforcement action against unauthorized developments. Such action may include stop notices requiring work to cease immediately, enforcement notices requiring the removal, alteration, or correction of unauthorized works, and prosecution and other penalties provided under the Physical Planning Act. Failure to comply with these requirements may result in significant delays, additional costs, fines, or legal proceedings. The Physical Planning Unit says it is committed to promoting safe, sustainable, and orderly development throughout Montserrat. It therefore asks all property owners, developers, contractors, and public agencies to submit the necessary planning applications and obtain approval before starting any construction project. By working together and following the proper planning process, the Physical Planning Unit says it can ensure that development benefits the entire community while protecting the environment and infrastructure.

The Government of Montserrat is extending its sincere appreciation to stakeholders who participated in the Sustainable Development Strategy (SDS) and National Development Plan (NDP) consultation workshops. The consultation were held from 13–17 July. Over the five-day period, 111 stakeholders contributed their knowledge, expertise, and perspectives to help shape Montserrat’s long-term development agenda. Participants represented a broad cross-section of society, including public servants, private sector organisations, youth, civil society organisations, and members of the Montserratian diaspora from the United Kingdom, the United States, the Caribbean, Canada, and the Middle East. Stakeholders participated in structured workshops designed to review and validate the SDS Planning Framework and the NDP Results Logic, both of which will provide the foundation for the first draft of these national planning documents. Following completion of the draft documents, the Government will launch an extensive programme of public engagement to ensure all residents and stakeholders have an opportunity to review and provide feedback. The draft Strategy and Plan will be made available through online platforms and will be supported by island-wide public consultations, community meetings, and radio programmes designed to encourage broad national participation. The Government encourages all residents and stakeholders to continue contributing to the development of these important national planning documents. Comments and suggestions may be submitted through the Policy and Planning Division, Cabinet Secretariat, or by email to sempled@gov.ms or andrevhenry@me.com. The Government of Montserrat is thanking individuals and organisations that contributed to the important exercise. It says the collaborative spirit demonstrated throughout the consultation process reflects a shared commitment to building a resilient, inclusive, and prosperous Montserrat for current and future generations.

The Government of Montserrat, through the Montserrat Customs and Revenue Services (MCRS), continues to strengthen collaboration with key stakeholders in the island’s import and trade sector following a productive meeting with customs brokers and shipping agents held on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at the Brades Arts and Education Center. The meeting was hosted by Comptroller of Customs, Mr. Derrick Lee, and formed part of MCRS’ ongoing commitment to improving customs administration, enhancing compliance, and preparing the island for the implementation of the Harmonized System (HS) 2028, which will come into effect across CARICOM on January 1, 2028. Joining Mr. Lee on the discussion panel were Mr. Peter W. A. White, Director General of the Montserrat Customs and Revenue Services; Mr. George Green, Superintendent of the Montserrat Port Authority; and Ms. Juliana Sweeney who is the Deputy Comptroller of the Montserrat Customs and Revenue Services. The session provided brokers and shipping agents with important updates on the transition to HS 2028 while reinforcing the critical role they play in maintaining efficient, transparent and compliant import processes. Discussions focused on improving manifest accuracy, ensuring proper tariff classifications, verifying consignee information, confirming exemption eligibility, and enhancing the quality of customs declarations submitted through the ASYCUDA system. Director General Mr. Peter W. A. White emphasized that the successful implementation of HS 2028 will require strong partnerships between Customs, brokers, shipping agents and the wider business community. Participants were encouraged to remain engaged throughout the consultation, training and system update process leading to the 2028 implementation. Comptroller of Customs Mr. Derrick Lee thanked attendees for their participation and stressed that ongoing dialogue between Customs and industry stakeholders is essential to facilitating legitimate trade while protecting government revenue and maintaining international standards. The meeting concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session, allowing participants to raise concerns, seek clarification and contribute recommendations aimed at improving customs operations on Montserrat. The expected outcomes include greater accuracy in customs submissions, stronger compliance, reduced processing delays, increased accountability, and a more efficient importation process for all stakeholders. As Montserrat continues to modernize its customs and revenue systems, the Government remains committed to working closely with the private sector to build a more efficient, resilient and internationally competitive trade environment.