Gumbs says new zoning plan needed as tender closes 30 October

Government of Sint Maarten says Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure Patrice Gumbs launched a tender on Wednesday 7 October for a new zoning plan. The Government said the zoning plans delivered in 2014 no longer match development and present needs, and that the law requires plans to be reviewed every five years. Proposals for the tender are due by Friday 30 October.

The Government said Gumbs received criticism over permits for high-rise buildings in Maho and Beacon Hill. It said the parcels involved are zoned for that type of building and that the permits conform with the draft zoning plans.

According to the Government, zoning can guide investments in roads, waste management and wastewater systems by setting out anticipated development over a fixed period. It said a consultant selected through the tender process will lead a process including public hearings and town halls.