NASSAU, BAHAMAS- Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce President Dillon Knowles says delays in the redevelopment of the Grand Lucayan Resort and the Grand Bahama International Airport are fuelling anxiety among residents and businesses, underscoring the need for urgency and transparency from government.
Knowles, speaking in an interview with Eyewitness News, was responding to Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper’s recent confirmation that additional financing is being sought for the airport redevelopment, slowing progress on the project.
“Delays are never good things, especially considering that the airport goes hand in hand with the Grand Lucayan redevelopment,” Knowles said. “We want both of those to get on track and moving as quickly as possible.”
He noted that the government’s public-private partnership (PPP) framework relies on four players: government, airport advisor Manchester, the contractor, and the financier. With financing not yet secured, he said Grand Bahama risks losing momentum.
“It’s important that we catch up for Grand Bahama. It’s important that we get these very important projects moving forward,” Knowles added.
While acknowledging that the island eventually needs a modern airport with U.S. pre-clearance facilities, Knowles said the existing facility—though intended to be temporary—remains serviceable until hotel redevelopment drives greater visitor demand. “As of right now, it is functional—probably better than most family island airports. But it will become a critical issue in short order once the hotel is open.”
In response to concerns, the Ministry of Tourism, Investments and Aviation issued a statement on Tuesday.
“The redevelopment of Grand Bahama International Airport remains a central priority for this administration and is key to the island’s economic renewal. We are in the final stages of securing funding and concluding agreements on airport management. These steps will allow construction to proceed and ensure the delivery of a modern, world-class facility.
Manchester Airport Group, the UK’s largest airport management group, continues to work with us as a key partner in shaping the airport’s development and management. Their role has not been and will not be to provide funding. Alongside the Bahamian consortium of contractors, they are a part of the team that will deliver this project for the people of Grand Bahama. We will make a further statement on the funding partner in short order. Our focus is on results. Grand Bahama will have the airport it needs to grow, attract investment, and strengthen its role as a gateway to The Bahamas,” the statement noted.
Knowles said the Chamber’s position remains that steady progress on both infrastructure projects is essential to restoring investor confidence and supporting economic growth on Grand Bahama.
