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By Loshaun Dixon
The Nevis Island Administration (NIA) has signalled a strong push to finalise the much-discussed Destiny project agreement before the end of the year, with Premier Mark Brantley emphasising that negotiations with developers are at an advanced stage.
Speaking to the press, Brantley said the government has been engaged in extensive consultations and engagements with developers to finalise the terms of the project.
“We are close. We have had a number of consultations. We have taken on board the comments and representations made by stakeholders, some in writing, and all of that has informed our position,” he explained.
While no official signing date has been set, Brantley expressed optimism that a deal could be completed before the new year. “Ideally, we want to sign off on this before the new year so that we can determine which direction we are moving in,” he said.
The Premier highlighted that the project is intended to create opportunities for Nevisians across multiple sectors. According to the most recent update, over 1,200 individuals have already signed up to indicate interest in employment opportunities linked to the project, and more than 400 local businesses have expressed willingness to provide services. Brantley also noted unique initiatives, such as engaging teachers interested in transitioning from education into the private sector.
Brantley addressed public debate surrounding the Special Sustainability Zone (SSZ) Act, under which the Destiny project is being negotiated. While acknowledging that the legislation has generated heated discussion and misinformation, he stressed that the act provides a framework for large-scale development while balancing environmental and community concerns. “The SSZ has created a lot of heat, but very little light. At least now, people understand what the project is about,” he said.
Destiny project representative Olivier Janssens confirmed that no contract has yet been signed with the government, and any agreement must still be presented to Parliament for approval. He said the SSZ Act establishes safeguards, including strict sustainability requirements, such as renewable energy targets and independent assessments, which developers are obliged to meet. “The Act actually limits the government and sets requirements for special sustainability zones. It’s a safeguard, completely the opposite of what some critics suggest,” Janssens said.
Brantley stressed that public debate should be based on facts rather than the loudest voices, noting that while some opposition has been vocal, the majority of the community remains supportive of development that benefits Nevis. “Freedom of speech here is alive and well, but the people aren’t necessarily those who are shouting the loudest,” he said.
He also reminded residents that the Destiny project aims to benefit young people entering the workforce, graduates returning from university, and members of the diaspora seeking to come home. The government is committed to ensuring that the project creates tangible opportunities for Nevisians, while promoting responsible, sustainable development for the island.
Both the NIA and the developers emphasised that completing the agreement before year-end is crucial to provide clarity to stakeholders, secure investment, and advance large-scale development in a way that benefits the island’s residents while adhering to strict environmental, social, and economic standards.
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