WILLEMSTAD - A plan for a luxury resort at Westpunt has been submitted to the Spatial Planning and Development Agency (ROP).
Minister Charles Cooper of Traffic, Transport, and Spatial Planning (VVRP) is said to be aware of the plans. According to the project developer Alexander Rodolfo Vishnu Da Costa Gomez, Cooper is very enthusiastic about it.
The new project, according to the developer, aims to become a second 'Coral Estate' in the hills near Westpunt, between Jaanchie's and Playa Piskadó. There are supposed to be 120 plots where multiple vacation houses can be built. Additionally, there will likely be a hotel or apartment complex with dozens of rooms.
"A Homeowners Association (VVE) will set rules for building on a plot," explained Da Costa Gomez.
Much of the green hills have already been cleared. According to the project developer, there is also a 'famous attraction,' but he did not provide details, except that it is globally known.
On social media, the development plans have received mostly disapproving reactions. In response, the minister stated that the land is privately owned and not owned by the government. "According to our laws, this land falls under the 'urban residential area' regime in the Island Development Plan (EOP), which means it can be developed," said Cooper.
The minister also mentioned that if he does not grant a permit despite meeting all requirements, it could result in a claim against the government. "So, it also affects us as citizens."