DOE Grants Conditional Approval for Scaled-Down Development at Deep Blue Water Caye

The Department of the Environment (DOE) has granted conditional environmental clearance for a proposed private residential development on Deep Blue Water Caye, located within the South Water Caye Marine Reserve in the Stann Creek District.  The decision follows a review by the National Environmental Appraisal Committee (NEAC), which met on October 10, to assess the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) submitted by developer Kirk Barnes. The committee examined the report and considered public concerns before making its recommendations.  NEAC supported approval for a scaled-down version of the project, allowing the construction of three residential buildings, one pier, and connecting pathways. However, the approval is subject to strict conditions aimed at preventing or reducing environmental impacts during both construction and operation.  Citing the high ecological sensitivity of the area, the committee recommended that dredging activities and the proposed pier on the eastern side of the island be removed from the project. These elements were not approved. NEAC also stressed that mangrove removal must be kept to an absolute minimum, with vegetation clearance limited only to areas required for building footprints and essential access paths.  The DOE has accepted NEAC’s recommendations in full and has formally notified the developer of its decision.