Southlands Petition Presented To Government
The petition in regard to Southlands was presented to Government officials this afternoon [Sept 4].
In advance of the presentation, a spokesperson said, “The growing public call to protect Southlands National Park Reserve has reached a major milestone, with over 5,300 signatures collected on a petition to halt development and officially designate the area as a Nature Reserve.
“On Thursday, September 4th at 1:30 PM, the petition will be formally presented to the Government on the steps of the House of Parliament. The Hon. Jache Adams, JP, MP, Minister of Public Works & Environment, will receive the petition on behalf of the Government. The presentation will be led by Nekorrah Raynor, the young Bermudian organizer of the petition.
The Issue: A Green Lung Under Threat
“Southlands National Park Reserve — affectionately known as “The Green Lung of Bermuda” — is a vital sanctuary of biodiversity, providing a haven for wildlife and a beloved escape for both residents and visitors. However, ongoing and proposed developments along its southern coast and northern woodlands are now threatening the park’s ecological integrity.
“Significant habitat loss has already occurred, placing native and endemic species at risk. Development pressures are also contributing to coastal erosion, degrading longtail nesting sites, and increasing danger in areas already known for unstable cliffs and undercuts. Cyclists, beachgoers, and hikers are also facing mounting safety risks.”
A Call to Protect What Remains
“Southlands means something different to everyone,” said Raynor. “For some, it’s a peaceful refuge; for others, it’s a space for families to connect with nature. But for all of us, it represents Bermuda’s natural heritage — and we’re dangerously close to losing it.”
A spokesperson added, “Bermuda remains one of the most densely developed islands in the Atlantic. As green spaces disappear, many fear that Southlands could become the next casualty.
“The petition calls on the Bermuda Government to immediately halt all development within Southlands and to take action to designate the area as a protected Nature Reserve. This, organizers say, is not just an environmental issue — it’s a moral responsibility to future generations.
“Petition link: https://www.change.org/p/stop-the-development-of-southlands-national-park.”
Thank you, Nekorrah Raynor for your commitment to highlighting that Southlands Park is a Class B Amenity Park (protected area) and not a Recreational Park, per the National Parks Act 1986.
An Amenity Park (protected area) means that it “shall be managed in a manner to encourage conservation and enjoyment of the natural, historic and educational features of these areas with a minimum of commercial activity”.
A Recreational Park is “more likely to include active engagement activities, such as basketball courts or farmers’ markets”.
An expansive Park such as Southlands would benefit from greater protection as a Nature Reserve, we agree, although public access would need to be well-managed to respect the space as a Nature Reserve.