🚫 Department of Environment urges halt to beachfront construction

The Department of Environment (DoE) in the Cayman Islands has issued a warning to the Cayman Islands Government (CIG) and other developers about the potential environmental consequences of building on beachfront land. The CIG plans to spend CI$250,000 on installing parking and toilet facilities, cabanas, and a concrete wall on a turtle nesting beach in East End. The DoE has cautioned that this could lead to increased erosion and negatively impact the natural environment. The proposed development does not meet the minimum 75ft regulatory coastal setback, which is a concern for the DoE. 🌴

The DoE has also expressed concern about the size of the proposed parking area, stating it is "extensive given the size" of the beachfront that the government has acquired. The department recommends reducing the size of the parking area and keeping the surfaces permeable to reduce runoff impacts and provide a more natural beach experience. The DoE also recommends that all hard structures proposed should meet the minimum coastal setback requirements to protect against the effects of climate change, such as coastal flooding and erosion. 🌊

Local environmental organizations have echoed the DoE's concerns, urging the CIG to leave the beaches in their natural state and resist installing excessive facilities. There are also worries about the potential commercialization of public beaches, as has happened at the Seven Mile public beach. The DoE and these organizations are advocating for the preservation of the natural environment and the prevention of further erosion and environmental damage. 🐢