ST. LUCIA – Construction
of Phase One of the island’s latest resort ‘The Residences’ at Ritz Carlton St. Lucia, got its official start on Tuesday’ December 11 following a ground breaking ceremony in the island’s south.
The property being developed in Black Bay, Vieux Fort, consists of a 275 room hotel, spa, and golf course, at a costs some Three Hundred Million Dollars. The entire project is being undertaken by the Irish Property Development Company, Roebuck International, and is projected for completion in seven years time.
President of Roebuck International Neal Sweeney acknowledged an earlier problem with Black Bay Farmers Group, in getting the programme off the ground.
He said, “We have to acknowledge the sacrifices the Black Bay farmers have made here to allow us to come unto the NDC land—land on which they have farmed for many years. My background is in farming and we understand the strong links that people have with land. So we understand the huge sacrifice that they have made and we really want to state our appreciation today.”
Mr. Sweeney said the hotel, upon completion, will also form robust business linkages with the farmers.
“In return we hope to pay them back in some way, by assisting them with their produce to bring it to Ritz Carlton Standards. We will buy all their produce and ensure that they are well paid. Roebuck is here and will guarantee that everything we promise will come true and you have my word as president and CEO of Roebuck International. We are certainly sure that our partners Ritz Carlton will be more than happy to assist us in that development,” said Sweeney.
The development also encompasses a 416 acre site at Honeymoon Bay, Vieux Fort.
