Anguilla Focus: Future stories in the making

At Anguilla Focus, our commitment to independent, in-depth journalism means we’re always looking ahead.

Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at the stories we’re currently researching, investigating and developing – many of which stem directly from questions and concerns raised by readers like you.

If you’ve got an idea, a tip or a question you think we should be asking, let us know in the comments below or email [email protected]

Midas case

We look at how Anguilla may be involved in the ‘Midas’ case – a large-scale Ukrainian corruption investigation into an alleged $100 million kickback and money-laundering scheme

Former Mariner’s Hotel

The former Mariner’s Hotel on Sandy Ground is on the market. We take a closer look at the asking price and the details of the listing.

Covecastles Resort for sale

The former Covecastles Resort on Shoal Bay West is also on the market. We take a closer look at its history, the asking price and the details of the listing.

CeBlue MoU signing

The government announced it is signing a MoU with Ce Blue for further development and a social project contribution. We look into the details.

GST price hike

According to minister Kyle Hodge some supermarket prices went up after the recent GST reform. We look into why and what is being done to prevent this continuing.

Savannah Bay social project

We are seeking answers on the progress of the social development for the Savannah Bay Resort and Marina Village – a US$2 million boardwalk in Island Harbour.

Floating bar

There is a half-sunk floating bar in Sandy Ground that several complaints have been raised over.

We are seeking answers as to who owns it, and what the government plans to do about it.

Parks before pavement?

We’re exploring how Anguilla might protect some of its last remaining stretches of undeveloped land – particularly on beaches and inland areas – through an expanded system of national/public reserves.

What would it take to establish more formal parks with trails, signs and facilities? Can these be created before large-scale developers lock up all remaining coastal land?

Sargassum strategies

The choking influx of sargassum seaweed is now an almost annual threat to Anguilla’s tourism economy and residents’ wellbeing. We’re investigating whether collaborative regional solutions are being pursued.

Environmental impact/planning process

Major developments are cropping up across Anguilla – but at what cost? We’re investigating the transparency of the approval process, the environmental effects of construction, and the potential long-term damage to fragile ecosystems.

Power lines and pavements

Could Anguilla’s roads be made far safer – and more hurricane-ready – by burying power lines and constructing proper sidewalks. But how much would it cost, and who would pay?

We’re examining examples from other islands and asking the government what the long-term infrastructure plan looks like.

Is bottled water safe?

Residents have expressed concerns about wells that supply bottled water in Anguilla. We’re trying to find out whether it’s being tested – and if not, why not.

Wrecked cars

How is it that more and more vehicles are abandoned on Anguilla’s roads, even as banks continue to offer generous auto loans?

We’re examining what’s driving this contradiction – and whether consumer credit regulation or end-of-life vehicle policies are part of the solution.