The January 30 deadline for investment submissions under the Shell Beach development may be extended amid strong public interest, Prime Minister Gaston Browne said Saturday.

Speaking on Pointe FM’s Browne and Browne programme, Browne said the level of interest in the project has been significant, prompting the government and National Asset Management Company (NAMCO) to consider adjusting the timeline.

“Given the level of interest, we may have to extend it,” Browne said, referring to the January 30 cutoff date for proposals.

He said NAMCO is assessing submissions and public response to determine whether an extension would allow more prospective investors to participate.

“There has been strong interest,” Browne said, adding that the objective is to ensure broad participation, particularly by ordinary Antiguans and Barbudans.

The Shell Beach project is designed to expand local involvement in tourism-related investment, including Airbnb-style accommodation, through a mix of beachfront and inland lots supported by government concessions.

Browne said any decision to extend the deadline would be communicated by NAMCO, noting that the agency is responsible for managing the process and evaluating proposals.

The prime minister said the possible adjustment reflects the government’s intent to balance timelines with accessibility, especially where public demand is high.