NASSAU, BAHAMAS- A private investment firm behind the planned $200 million luxury development, Rosewood Exuma, has reaffirmed its commitment to meeting the highest environmental standards, stating the project is fully aligned with government guidelines and progressing through the necessary approvals process.
Yntegra Group, the developer, said in a statement: “Yntegra Group appreciates the strong public support for Rosewood Exuma, particularly from the residents of Blackpoint. This support underscores the positive impact and benefits this project is expected to bring to the community. From the outset, Yntegra Group has been committed to ensuring that this project meets the highest environmental standards. That is why we are working closely with some of the best environmental consultants in The Bahamas. Their expertise ensures that we adhere to all necessary environmental protections and best practices.”
The company added: “Our project is fully aligned with the government’s established guidelines and procedures and is currently progressing through the government approvals process, which is a necessary and standard part of any responsible development. We believe that this process should be allowed to take its course, just as it does for every other project. We trust the Department of Environmental Planning and Protection (DEPP) and the relevant government agencies to carry out their work diligently and objectively. Their role is critical in ensuring that all projects are evaluated fairly and transparently, and we remain committed to full compliance throughout this process. We appreciate the continued support and engagement from the public and stakeholders and look forward to providing updates as the process moves forward.”
However, Robert Coughlin, principal of Turtlegrass Resort and Island Club, has expressed concerns about the potential environmental impact of the nearby Rosewood Exuma development. Coughlin warned he would be prepared to halt his $75 million project if the Rosewood development proceeds without addressing these concerns. He described it as “disheartening” that the Rosewood project plans to dredge nearly 240,000 cubic yards of fill to create two marinas, install an employee dock, and build a seawall in front of his property.
Coughlin recenlty disclosed that he is ready to stop his project after the $25 million first phase if the nearby mega-resort significantly alters the shared environment. He also warned that such an outcome could result in the loss of about 50 jobs annually in The Bahamas. The Turtlegrass development is a four-phase, $100 million eco-friendly project on Big Sampson Cay, but Coughlin has said he may abandon the project if the environmental impact of the Rosewood resort threatens the sensitive bay that is a key selling point of his resort. Yntegra’s proposed development includes a commercial dock for the delivery of supplies and workers, which would be located within the eco-sensitive bay shared by both developments.
The $200 million ultra-luxury Rosewood Exuma resort, a collaboration between Yntegra Group and Rosewood Hotels and Resorts, is set to open in 2028. The resort is expected to create around 500 jobs for Bahamians, particularly residents of the Exumas. According to the developer, less than 50 percent of the 124-acre island will be developed, with sustainable building practices prioritized. At least 80 percent of the landscape design will feature native plants, and 14,000 native trees will be grown in the resort’s nursery throughout development. Renewable energy, including solar power, will be utilized to meet at least 30 percent of the resort’s power demand, minimizing the environmental impact on the island.
