WILLEMSTAD – The developer behind the controversial construction project at Zakitó has rejected accusations from residents that the development violates regulations and threatens the environment, setting the stage for a legal confrontation over the future of the project.
According to Adam Kiolle, director of GMFB Caribbean Holding, the claims made by residents are inaccurate. He maintains that proper procedures were followed and that environmental considerations were fully taken into account during the permitting process.
The response comes after residents filed a request with the court seeking an immediate halt to construction. They argue that the project conflicts with the Eilandelijk Ontwikkelingsplan (Island Development Plan), lacks a proper environmental assessment, and risks causing irreversible damage to the lagoon and surrounding living environment.
Kiolle disputes these claims, stating that the zoning framework allows for deviations from maximum building heights, provided that a thorough balancing of interests is conducted. According to him, such an assessment was carried out, and the decision to build taller, more slender structures was made specifically to minimize ecological impact and preserve sightlines.
He also rejected criticism regarding the absence of environmental studies. The developer says multiple assessments were conducted by consulting firms, including Ecovision and Arcadis, focusing on nature values, water quality, and dredging techniques. A formal environmental impact assessment was not required, he argues, as the law allows the responsible minister to determine this on a case-by-case basis.
On the issue of the lagoon, the developer offers a sharply different perspective. While residents describe the area as a vulnerable ecosystem at risk, Kiolle claims the project will actually improve conditions. He states that the lagoon’s soil is currently contaminated with oil and heavy metals and is now being cleaned. Expanding the connection to the sea, he adds, is expected to enhance water circulation and support biodiversity recovery.
The dispute highlights two fundamentally opposing views: residents warn of insufficient oversight and permanent environmental damage, while the developer insists that all legal procedures have been followed and that the project will deliver environmental benefits.
Kiolle also criticized the approach of activist group Save Zakitó, accusing it of relying heavily on legal action and public pressure while allegedly ignoring invitations for dialogue.
The case now centers on whether the decision-making process behind the project will hold up in court. A judge is expected to rule on the request to halt construction, while a broader legal assessment of the project remains pending.
The outcome could have wider implications, not only for the Zakitó development but also for how large-scale construction projects are evaluated and approved in Curaçao.