WILLEMSTAD – The expansion of the Baoase Luxury Resort in the Marie Pampoen area has received legal approval after the Court of First Instance rejected an objection filed by a nearby resident.
The case centered on a building permit for the construction of twelve new hotel suites, divided across two structures on land adjacent to a residential property. The objector argued that the development was incompatible with the residential character of the area and could lead to disturbances for nearby residents.
Baoase Resort expansion
The court ruled otherwise, stating that the project falls within the zoning category of “urban residential area,” where recreational functions such as hotels are permitted. As a result, the Minister of Traffic, Transport and Spatial Planning was deemed to have lawfully granted the permit.
Additional objections were also dismissed. The court found that the development would not negatively affect the visual character of the area and would not cause unacceptable nuisance. The buildings remain within permitted height limits and are considered consistent with the spatial structure of the neighborhood.
It was further established that the project includes proper sewer connections and that any minor boundary issues do not justify denying the permit.
The expansion is part of the existing Baoase Luxury Resort, a well-known beachfront property. The court also noted that the project does not significantly impact the island’s housing stock, as only a limited number of residential units are affected and the overall housing supply on Curaçao has increased.
For residents who opposed the development, the ruling means the project can proceed without further delay. An appeal can still be filed with the Joint Court of Justice.