Buccament Bay project going full steam ahead

by Karen Palmer20.JUL.07

Have no fear, the Buccament Bay Beach Resort is coming along just fine – and with the people’s interest in mind, it seems.

Project Manager Ken Picknell shared that the project will see construction of 291 cabanas and five apartment blocks, one of which is a hotel, for a total of 760 bedrooms.{{more}} He commented that things are running smoothly, as 30% of the cabana structures are done, and the first phase of the project, consisting of 81 cabanas, will be open by Easter, 2008.

The hot issues with the Cane Grove farmers have been completely resolved, said Picknell, as he explained that the farmers have either sold or settled for alternative land, with the exception of one farmer who refused to sell, which Picknell said is “fair enough”. He noted that some of the farmers are still using land that the project has little use for at the moment, and they will relocate as construction moves up from the beachfront, closer to the road.

And while it won’t be yellow brick, the 3 million dollar public access road will lead to a white sand beach, as 6.5 thousand tons of sand will be imported from Guyana in August.

Near the warmly coloured cabanas will be a restaurant, bar, and dive shop, all dotted on a shore that will be protected by a sea barge that is currently being constructed. Picknell emphasized that the area presents many hazards at the moment, and urges the public to take heed and perch on another shore in the meanwhile.

And on the green side of things, Picknell made it clear that the negative consequences are nil concerning the beach and diversion of the river. He said the sea barges are actually expected to create a marine environment that is currently absent, and that the river has been diverted in a manner that avoids previous issues with flood plains as well as ensures its usage for fishing and other activities are not compromised. Moreover, the trees removed for construction have been replanted, and only local plants will be used on the premises.

With three restaurants, including one seating 400 people, a 20,000 square foot spa, a sail, surf and dive shop, four bars, a coffee shop and a tennis academy (sponsored by a major star yet to be revealed), Picknell emphasized that the public will not be shunned from the premises, and are welcome to use the facilities when completed. He noted that there has been the construction of local bars and restaurants along the beachfront, and he believes the Buccament Bay Beach Resort will play an integral role in the tourism industry in St.Vincent and the Grenadines.

On the topic of tourism and the service sector, Picknell mentioned that the work ethic of the employees is commendable, and that there is some talk of training those who will work at the hotel at resorts in St. Lucia and Barbados to expose them to the ways of resorts.

On the flip side, he said that barring private charters, airline service to St.Vincent and the Grenadines is a definite obstacle. He explained its effect on investors who have limited time to view the hotel, and stated that travel experiences marred by late flights and lost luggage reflect badly on St.Vincent and the Grenadines. Whereas he noted the international airport will be beneficial when completed in 2011, Picknell said the airlines and ground staff need to offer more than just mediocre service.

With the majority of the 291 cabanas already sold, Picknell said the project is aiming to be complete by 2009. It currently employs approximately 388 people, and hopes to permanently employ approximately 400, of which he said the majority will be locals, judging from previous projects.