Montserrat – The phoenix rises

Last Updated on 20 May 2014

In 1995 the island of Montserrat was largely destroyed by a volcanic eruption that made headlines news around the globe. Now, nearly two decades later, it is beginning the process of rebuilding its economy with ambitious plans for a new city and a new port.

Until 1985 the Soufrière Hills volcano, in the south of the island, had been dormant. After it started erupting in 1995 the Georgian-era city of Plymouth was destroyed and two-thirds of the population fled the island.