New large scale
developments are causing many home and land owners in the Federation to lose
their peaceful enjoyment of their home. Approval of these developments without
public input has made Citizens and Residents frustrated and unsure of their
investments. There is a lack of adequate legislation/enforcement of law in
place to protect the general public or the environment from the developments
proposed or underway. Allowing medium rise buildings will forever alter
the vibe and skyline of St Kitts and Nevis. There are more than 8 projects
approved which exceed the former height limits and/or density confinements.
Many are being built in single family residential areas and could affect our
main water resources. Requiring public comment on major planning changes would
reduce fear for future investors and give Citizens and Residents a chance to be
part of the change in turn reducing friction between developers and individual home
owners. Restoring building height and density limitations in areas already
developed under those limitations will protect the aesthetic values important to
existing residents and the tourism market as well as protect investor’s
interests in those areas. Establishing zoning and covenant restrictions and
enforcing them will protect present investors, Citizens and Residents while
also encouraging new investors to buy. If people see a proper plan in place
that is abided by and enforced they will feel more secure in investing. Short
term, unplanned development is not sustainable economically, environmentally or
socially. We request that the Government of St Kitts and Nevis address the gaps and conflicts in the legal coverage for sustainable development.
These buildings are all destined to be empty shells. The buyers of them will never visit. They just wanted the passport. Based on present occupancy levels at our hotels and inns, we do not need more accommdations. As the buildings sit empty, there will be no revenue to maintain the property, and more imortantly, the promised jobs to so many will be lost. And we'll be left with deteriorating unsightly buildings all over the federaton.....