Reminder: Exercise STRONGHOLD Begins Tomorrow — Expect Road Closures, Convoy Movements and Restricted Access Across Antigua Through Friday

Security agencies are reminding motorists, pedestrians, and businesses across Antigua to prepare for significant disruption beginning tomorrow, as Exercise STRONGHOLD — the largest security preparedness drill ever staged in the twin-island nation — gets underway in advance of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in November.

Three Days of Operational Activity

The exercise will run from Wednesday, July 8, to Friday, July 10, with security forces and emergency services conducting convoy movements and operational activities along major roads and at strategic locations across the island. The CHOGM National Security Planning Committee said the exercise is designed to test Antigua and Barbuda's security readiness, emergency response capacity, inter-agency coordination, and overall operational effectiveness.

Where to Expect Disruption

Temporary road closures, traffic diversions, and restricted access are expected in multiple areas. The corridors most likely to be affected include roads leading to the American University of Antigua and hotels in the northern section of the island, Sir George Walter Highway, Sir Sydney Walling Highway, Old Parham Road, and Friars Hill Road.

Traffic and pedestrian movement may also be affected in the vicinity of the Antigua and Barbuda National Performing Arts Centre, formerly the Deluxe Cinema, on High Street.

St. John's Security Zone

Vehicular access will be restricted within a designated security zone in the heart of the capital, extending from Newgate Street in the north to New Street in the south, and from Parliament Drive in the east to Corn Alley in the west. Pedestrian movement within the zone will also be regulated, with police officers and security personnel deployed along routes to assist with traffic management and ensure orderly movement.

Plan Ahead

The public is strongly encouraged to plan travel in advance and allow additional time for daily commutes during the three-day period. Motorists should comply with all diversions, road signs, and instructions from police and authorised security personnel.

The CHOGM National Security Planning Committee has expressed regret for any inconvenience the measures may cause and thanked the public for its patience and cooperation as the country prepares to host one of the most significant international gatherings in its history — a summit expected to bring leaders from across the 56-nation Commonwealth to Antigua and Barbuda, alongside an anticipated state visit by His Majesty King Charles III.