By Fay Simmons

Tribune Business Reporter

jsimmons@tribunemedia.net

The developer of the $200m Rosewood Exuma project yesterday reiterated that its decision to submit a revised site plan application was designed to “avoid further delays” and resolve the concerns of opponents, who said the move is “exactly what we wanted to hear”.

The Save Exuma Alliance (SEA), in a statement, said it was “extremely pleased” at the move by the project’s Miami-based developer, Yntegra Group, to submit a new site plan application to the Department of Physical Planning.

It also backed the relocation of the $200m Rosewood Exuma project’s service dock - a move that meant the plan will have to be revised. However, Save Exuma Alliance stressed that reconsideration of the service dock location is only a first step, adding that the project must go further to ensure responsible development that protects and complements the surrounding environment.

“This is exactly what we wanted to hear. We always said we are not against business and development, but it must be suitable and sustainable for the location. Now that the developer is submitting a new plan, this is a perfect opportunity to relaunch consultations and to truly listen to what people have to say, and to make sure this development does not put the environment of the North Bay at risk,” said Save Exuma Alliance.

The group also raised questions about existing environmental approvals. While it is unclear whether these clearances still apply to the new site plan application, Save Exuma Alliance said any revised application should undergo a full review to assess the changes.

It called on the Department of Environmental Planning and Protection (DEPP) to clarify the process and ensure a transparent and detailed analysis of the project’s environmental impact. 

“We do not know what this means yet for environmental clearances already granted for the project, but if this is a new plan then it should surely need to get new clearances that assess changes. It would be good for the Department of Environment Planning and Protection to provide clarity. Let’s get this right – make sure there is a thorough, detailed, transparent analysis of what the impact of the development will be. If we’re going to do it, do it right,” said Save Exuma Alliance.

Yntegra Group said the company opted to relocate the service dock to “resolve the concerns” of neighbours. 

In a statement yesterday, it highlighted that the Rosewood Exuma project was shaped through months of public consultation, independent technical studies and detailed review by the Town Planning Committee and DEPP.

The developer said legal challenges are “not unusual” for large projects, and it is voluntarily addressing them to avoid delays, maintain certainty for stakeholders, and ensure the project delivers long-term benefits to the Exuma Cays while maintaining respectful relations with neighbours.

“Legal challenges of this kind are not unusual for major developments. To avoid further delays and bring certainty to all stakeholders, Yntegra has elected to seek to resolve the concerns raised by its neighbours. Our goal has always been to work respectfully with our neighbours and to bring meaningful, long-term benefits to the Exuma Cays community,” said Yntegra. 

“Yntegra remains committed to transparency, environmental stewardship and compliance with all regulatory processes. Our confidence in this project, and our dedication to the Exuma Cays are unwavering, and we fully expect to create more than 500 jobs and business opportunities for Bahamians in Exuma, the cays and across the country. We are dedicated to delivering sustainable community development in an environmentally sound manner while creating meaningful economic impact in The Bahamas.”