🏗️ Controversy surrounds proposed Aqua Bay condo tower

The proposed demolition and redevelopment of a condo complex at the northern end of Seven Mile Beach, known as Aqua Bay, has sparked controversy. The Butler Development's application has drawn 48 letters of objection from neighbouring owners, concerns from the Department of Environment, and questions over the height of the proposed new tower from the Department of Planning. The new building, replacing a complex built in the early 1980s, would be a ten-story block, potentially setting a precedent for future development in this tranquil part of Grand Cayman’s famous beach. 🏖️

Neighbouring condo owners have raised concerns that the proposal exceeds the legal height, is out of character with the surrounding low-level condo developments and homes, and will overshadow their beachfront properties. The planning department has advised that the proposed building, which includes additional top floors and underground parking, would actually be an eleven-story building, exceeding the legal limit. The developers, however, argue that the additional floors are not habitable and therefore don't count towards the total. 🏢

Environmental concerns have also been raised, particularly in relation to the project's impact on turtle nesting locations along Seven Mile Beach. The National Conservation Council has provided guidelines for turtle-friendly lighting, and the Department of Environment has urged the developers to retain vegetation used by turtles for nesting. The department has also warned of potential flooding risks due to climate change predictions for the region. Further concerns have been raised about the potential for other low-rise condos to seek redevelopment into towers, changing the nature of Seven Mile Beach and exacerbating traffic issues. 🐢