WILLEMSTAD - In response to concerns from residents that a permit may have been erroneously granted for the development of Zakito, Minister Silvania writes that the project developer, Royal Holding Company II B.V., still must comply with the law.
There is a master plan between the government of Curaçao, the Curaçao Tourist Board, along with various investors for the development of the Zakito area. This encompasses the area from the entrances near Aqualectra to approximately the WTC building in Piscadera.
According to Silvania, the aim of this development program is to enhance the corridor and expand the tourism sector in the area. An important aspect for the community is that the corridor remains accessible so that our people can walk or exercise there daily at any time of the day, and this will be completely renovated.
Additionally, it is important to mention that since May 2023, the government has granted various permits to Royal Holding Company II B.V. in the context of developing a marina in the Zakito area.
The company will be able to build a breakwater and a movable bridge, in accordance with Curaçao's laws on maritime land management and on construction and housing.
Questions
The master plan for the development of the Zakito area, including the construction of a marina and the renovation of the corridor, sounds promising for the economic and touristic development of Curaçao. However, residents have raised questions about how these developments will precisely comply with local environmental legislation and the potential impact on the local ecosystem.
It is critical to assess how the construction of structures such as breakwaters and bridges, as well as the significant alterations to the landscape, will actually harmonize with the delicate marine and coastal ecosystem, especially regarding mangrove forests and reef management. The exemptions granted for reef protection and the approach to mangrove management must be carefully considered to prevent long-term damage to these critical natural resources.
Furthermore, according to residents, it is important that the local community is not only seen as recreational users of the renovated corridor but also actively involved in the planning process. Participation of local residents can help ensure that the developments not only yield economic benefits but are also socially and ecologically sustainable.
While the project undoubtedly offers economic benefits, such as strengthening the maritime economy, residents believe there must be a balance where economic growth does not come at the expense of environmental protection and social well-being. It is crucial that such projects undergo thorough evaluation for potential environmental impacts and that stringent environmental protection measures are implemented throughout the project's lifespan.