A significant event unfolded recently as government officials, community members, and stakeholders gathered for the official launch of the Gros Islet Recreational Beach Park.
This park, strategically located on the outskirts of the town, is set to become a dynamic hospitality hub for both locals and visitors, driving economic benefits for residents. The public Beach Park will feature entertainment spaces and commercial opportunities, including washrooms, an ice cream shop, concessionary blocks, a playground, and an entertainment zone.
Ministry of Tourism officials herald this project as a pivotal milestone in Tourism and Community Development. The site, located along Jerome Montoute Drive, directly connects to Pigeon Island and Gros Islet Town.
Minister for Youth Development, Sports, and Parliamentary Representative (MP) for Gros Islet, Kenson Casimir, recognized the critical contributions of individuals who helped realize this vision. He particularly highlighted the passion and commitment of Simon “Simple” Phillip, an entrepreneur from the community.
“Simple initiated a vital space for the children of Gros Islet,” MP Casimir asserted, prompting a well-deserved round of applause for Phillip.
“I extend my gratitude to the people of Gros Islet for their patience throughout this endeavor,” Casimir stated. “We aim to deliver quality in our constituency. We faced challenges, notably those linked to global warming, but we overcame them to bring this project to fruition.”
Casimir expressed pride in the contractors, all local residents, who executed the project excellently. “We anticipate hosting jazz events here, along with carnival festivities, Gros Islet Day celebrations, and Creole activities, ensuring the community has plenty to enjoy,” he said.
Tourism Minister Dr. Ernest Hilaire emphasized the project’s significance. “Facilities like this are crucial for creating opportunities in the hospitality sector, allowing average Saint Lucians to reap the benefits of the tourism industry,” he emphasized.
Dr. Hilaire pointed out the historical dominance of large hotels in the sector, stating, “For years, we’ve aimed to ensure Saint Lucians can benefit more directly from tourism.”
Since 2021, the government has actively pushed to increase local involvement in the tourism industry. “We want to empower more Saint Lucians to take ownership of the tourism sector; this is a fundamental shift.”
The Tourism Minister also outlined plans for additional public restrooms and vending facilities at various beaches. He committed to installing more moorings for marine vessels to enhance revenue for the region.
According to a ministry release, the OECS Regional Tourism Competitiveness Project, funded by the World Bank Group, has successfully mobilized five civil works, including software development initiatives.
The authorities have prioritized the Gros Islet Waterfront for development in their strategic plan for Saint Lucia. The ministry emphasizes that this development is designed to enhance and transform the area into an attractive scenic attraction for tourists and residents alike while creating substantial employment opportunities.
As cruise tourism continues to thrive in the Caribbean, the ministry will ensure that “our tourism offerings evolve to remain competitive while fostering links within the local community.”
R. A.