9 October 2026

 Updated Application Forms to Streamline the Crown Land Acquisition Process

The Government of the Virgin Islands has introduced updated application forms to streamline the processing of Crown land applications to improve service delivery.

The forms cover applications for residential grants, commercial land leases, reclamations, jetties and breakwater. The initiative also supports the Government's management of Crown Land, which may be sold to individuals for residential purposes or leased to businesses for commercial purposes.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change, Honourable Julian Fraser, RA, welcomed the initiative as part of the ministry's ongoing efforts to improve administrative efficiency.

Permanent Secretary, Dr. Ronald Berkeley, stated, “These updated forms are designed to simplify the application process and improve access to Crown Land. While submitting an application does not guarantee approval, it is an essential step in the process.”

 Meanwhile, Chief Lands Officer in the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change, Mrs. Heather Skelton said she is pleased to see the forms in operation, as they represent one of the many initiatives the ministry has been working on behind the scenes. 

Mrs. Skelton said, “The updated forms are designed to simplify the application process and improve efficiency for individuals and businesses seeking to access Crown Land.The forms clearly outline the required information and supporting documents, helping to reduce incomplete submissions, minimise delays and improve processing efficiency.”

Mrs. Skelton further noted that the forms will be available electronically in a fillable format, allowing applicants to complete them directly on their computers. Printed copies will also be available at the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change.The initiative supports the implementation of the Crown Lands Management Act, which took effect on 31 January 2025.

Applicants are urged to carefully review the requirements and submit all necessary supporting documents to facilitate timely processing. For additional information and access to the forms, the public is encouraged to visit the ministry's official website at gov.vg.

The Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change is the ministry responsible for overseeing and managing environmental issues, natural resources, and climate change policies within the territory. Its primary goal is to ensure the sustainable use and protection of the environment while addressing the challenges posed by climate change. The ministry is also responsible for the management and conservation of natural resources such as forests, water bodies, wildlife, minerals, and land.

For Additional Information, Contact: 

Berta McKelly Adams 

Information Officer Department of Information and Public Relations 

Telephone: (284) 468-2730 

Email: bmckelly@gov.vg

Email: bmckelly@gov.vg