Woodford Hill

Woodford Hill is a rural settlement in Saint Andrew Parish on Dominica’s East Coast, between the villages of Wesley and Calibishie. Two notable waterways, the Woodford Hill River and the Mamelabou River border it. A more minor tributary, Joe Gutter Ravine, also cuts across portions of the landscape, while Pan Lake offers freshwater views inland. This partly coastal community extends along the Melville Hall – Portsmouth Road, linking residents to essential services and markets in nearby areas. Woodford Hill Road and LaRue (Larieu) Road serve as the main thoroughfares for those seeking to explore the village interior.

Community and Infrastructure

Guided by the Woodford Hill Village Council, the community has steadily developed its amenities to support residents and visitors. The Woodford Hill Primary School is pivotal in providing quality education and extracurricular opportunities for the village’s children—the Woodford Hill Health Centre anchors health services, ensuring access to essential healthcare for residents. The Woodford Hill Youth Network fosters personal and professional growth among the village’s younger generation through mentorship and skill-building programs.

Social interactions and community events thrive at the Woodford Hill Social Centre, a hub for public gatherings and activities. Spiritual life is enriched by the Woodfordhill SDA Church, which serves as a cornerstone for worship and community support. Recreational activities are centered around the Woodford Hill playing field, which hosts sports and other outdoor events. Additionally, the Woodford Hill branch of the Marigot Co-operative Credit Union Ltd. (MCCU) supports local economic stability by facilitating savings and financial transactions.

Agriculture remains vital, with farmers cultivating bananas, root crops, and other produce for island-wide markets. Fishing and small-scale retail also contribute to the livelihoods of many residents, leveraging Woodford Hill’s proximity to coastal routes for trade and commerce.

Natural and Cultural Heritage

Beneath the sea breezes of the Atlantic Ocean, La Taille Bay and Woodford Hill Bay cradle much of Woodford Hill’s shoreline, showcasing calm waters and scenic vistas. A short walk reveals Turtle Point, an intriguing coastal feature that occasionally draws curious explorers. Beachgoers frequently visit La Taille Beach and Woodford Hill Beach for swimming, picnics, and informal sports. Further inland, the presence of rolling terrain and freshwater outlets fosters biodiversity, reflecting both maritime and agricultural influences. Over the years, the Woodford Hill Village Council has initiated grassroots programs to preserve local customs and manage moderate development in tune with the area’s serene character. By balancing infrastructural upgrades with respect for its natural charms, Woodford Hill continues to evolve as a community rooted in tradition yet open to new opportunities.