NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Yntegra Group said it is moving ahead with renewed momentum after securing preliminary support for its Exuma resort site plan, a key regulatory step that advances the controversial development despite mounting environmental opposition.
The developer confirmed that the Town Planning Committee has backed its site plan application, subject to conditions, marking what it described as “an important milestone” in the approval process. Final approval remains pending the submission and review of detailed plans in accordance with the Planning and Subdivision Act.
The proposed project, which includes a Rosewood Hotels & Resorts-branded development, was deemed by the Committee to represent an appropriate low-density resort model for the site, featuring a dispersed layout aimed at reducing visual impact and preserving the natural character of the cay, with adjustments to marine works noted as addressing stakeholder concerns.
“We welcome this decision and appreciate the diligence of the government agencies involved,” said Felipe MacLean. “We trust in their expertise and value the time and care they dedicated to reviewing the project.”
According to Yntegra, the preliminary support follows a series of town hall meetings and stakeholder engagements, during which community concerns helped shape elements of the proposal.
“This milestone allows us to move forward with renewed momentum. Our focus remains on keeping our promises, creating employment opportunities, and progressing the project responsibly,” MacLean added. “We will treat all conditions imposed as a priority and are fully committed to complying with them, ensuring the project continues to meet the highest standards as we move into the next phase.”
However, the project continues to face strong pushback from environmental advocates, with the Save Exuma Alliance(SEA) condemning the decision as being at odds with public sentiment.
SEA said it was “disappointment and shock” that preliminary approval had been granted despite what it described as overwhelming opposition from residents, particularly over plans involving dredging in the North Bay at Sampson Cay.
“The people of Exuma said no, but preliminary approval has been given anyway,” the group said, arguing that consultations in George Town and Black Point reflected calls for further changes rather than support for the project in its current form.
While acknowledging that the approval is not final and does not permit construction to begin, SEA warned it would closely monitor the process and pursue further action if necessary.
“This is preliminary approval, not full approval. This does not allow work to start, and SEA will be watching closely to ensure the law is followed,” the group said. “Once this beautiful environment is damaged, it is gone, and we will keep up the fight to protect it.”
The alliance also raised concerns about the scale and environmental footprint of the development, alleging that proposed dredging could damage seagrass beds, coral reefs and marine habitats critical to fish and turtle populations, while questioning whether the project aligns with national commitments to sustainable development.
SEA further signalled the potential for legal action, noting that supporters are prepared to take the matter “into the legal arena where an independent judiciary will weigh the merits of this case and the processes that led to this development being approved as is.”
