Sustainable Development for St Kitts and Nevis
New large scale developments are causing many home and land owners in the Federation to lose their peaceful enjoyment of their home. Approval of these developments without public input has made Citizens and Residents frustrated and unsure of their investments. There is a lack of adequate legislation/enforcement of law in place to protect the general public or the environment from the developments proposed or underway. Allowing medium rise buildings will forever alter the vibe and skyline of St Kitts and Nevis. There are more than 8 projects approved which exceed the former height limits and/or density confinements. Many are being built in single family residential areas and could affect our main water resources. Requiring public comment on major planning changes would reduce fear for future investors and give Citizens and Residents a chance to be part of the change in turn reducing friction between developers and individual home owners. Restoring building height and density limitations in areas already developed under those limitations will protect the aesthetic values important to existing residents and the tourism market as well as protect investor’s interests in those areas. Establishing zoning and covenant restrictions and enforcing them will protect present investors, Citizens and Residents while also encouraging new investors to buy. If people see a proper plan in place that is abided by and enforced they will feel more secure in investing. Short term, unplanned development is not sustainable economically, environmentally or socially. We request that the Government of St Kitts and Nevis address the gaps and conflicts in the legal coverage for sustainable development.
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