The redevelopment of Bananes Bay—featuring a modern fisherman’s village as part of a broader cruise port expansion—has officially commenced. This was confirmed by a Saint Lucia Cruise Port official on Thursday as foundation works began.
“Construction at Bananes Bay began today with the commencement of piling for the new tender jetties,” said Racquel Preville, Communications Manager for Saint Lucia Cruise Port.
Preville emphasized that existing fishers and small business owners currently based at Bananes Bay will be accommodated in new facilities being constructed. The announcement follows growing concerns from occupiers about the future of their livelihoods once redevelopment is complete.
“Temporary structures will be placed on-site for fishers to ensure that their livelihoods are not disrupted and that they are not displaced in any way. After construction is completed, fishers, restaurateurs, and bar owners will return to Bananes Bay to continue operations,” she stated.
This transformative project aims to improve working conditions for fishers and restaurateurs while enhancing the experience for both locals and visitors. By upgrading facilities and services, Saint Lucia Cruise Port seeks to attract more guests to the area and stimulate sustainable community development.
Initial works involve relocating current occupants, including the temporary relocation of fishers and business operators to facilitate uninterrupted construction. The project is estimated to take approximately 18 months to complete.
The start of redevelopment follows recent government efforts to clarify the compensation and relocation process for affected residents and businesses. On Tuesday, Tourism and Investment Minister Dr. Ernest Hilaire confirmed that all residents were engaged and consulted before the relocation phase began.
