WILLEMSTAD - Plans by Baoase Luxury Resort to reclaim 2,007 square meters of land from the sea have hit a roadblock as the granting of permits faces delays.
The setback arises following the submission of fifteen objections during the public consultation phase. Authorities are currently assessing these objections to gauge their impact on the decision-making process. Adjustments to the project design may be necessary based on the feedback received.
Of particular concern is the potential obstruction of sea views, particularly for residents living along Winterswijkstraat and Dr. Martin Luther King Boulevard. There are also worries about the ecological impact on marine habitats, including endangered coral species, which could run counter to the SPAW protocol.
The developer, in response, has dismissed alternative proposals put forth by EcoVision, opting instead to revise the original design. The timeline for completing the objection review process remains uncertain.
In mid-April, Minister of Traffic, Transport, and Urban Planning (VVRP), Charles Cooper (MFK), emphasized the government's stance on receiving public feedback. "We are committed to thoroughly evaluating all criticisms in accordance with legal requirements," the minister assured.
"If valid concerns are identified, the project developer will need to make necessary adjustments to align with regulatory standards." The minister reiterated that while developments are encouraged, they must adhere to existing laws and regulations.