Large subdivision applications prompt renewed call for review

Two proposals for the subdivision of land in Grand Cayman have been submitted to the Central Planning Authority for approval, with another in Little Cayman in the works.

In total, they are requesting permission for the creation of 491 lots across more than 120-acres of land over the two islands.

Developers argue that the land needs to be divided into high density neighbourhoods to provide affordable lots for low income residents.

But the Department of Environment says the demand for that many lots is unproven and as much precious native vegetation should be retained as possible.

This week, for a second time, department director Gina Ebanks-Petrie requested a review take place to determine how subdivision applications should be managed.

Richard Mileham from Department of Planning told the Compass the authority will decide whether or not to conduct a review when they consider the specific application.

Hundreds of lots

Two applications for subdivisions in Grand Cayman were published in the agenda for the Central Planning Authority’s 25 Oct. meeting this week.

Invicta Construction has applied for permission to create a 184-lot subdivision on a 43.6-acre plot off Austin Connolly Drive in East End.

And Casabella Development has applied for a 257-lot subdivision off Frank Sound Road in North Side on a 77.46-acre plot.

Meanwhile, architect drawings for a 50-lot subdivision off Sam McCoys Drive in Little Cayman have been submitted to the Department of Planning and for public viewing.

In her written response to both of the Grand Cayman applications, Ebanks-Petrie said the planning authority should consider the need for this many subdivision lots.

She mentioned that the government is “actively working” on an updated national development plan which will provide a strategic framework for sustainable development.

But until it is ready, the department “strongly recommends” that a comprehensive review of the need for more subdivisions takes place before more permission is granted, she said.

“The impact of a further residential subdivision on existing infrastructure and the environment of the island should be properly considered and evaluated,” she added.

Ebanks-Petrie warned that some residential subdivisions have already been approved and cleared of vegetation – only for the promised developments to fail to materialise.

No more clearing

The Central Planning Authority allows for the immediate clearing and filling of land when granting permission for a subdivision, regardless of how imminent the development may be.

Ebanks-Petrie said the department does not support this, and consistently requests that conditions stating clearing is not allowed be put in place with approval of applications.

“Natural habitat and native vegetation can be incorporated into parks, play areas, and amenity spaces to provide multiple benefits to a community,” she said.

However, that opportunity is lost when the area is prematurely cleared, the director added.

She said there are subdivisions which were cleared and filled over 30 years ago and have never been developed.

This results in biodiversity loss, proliferation of invasive species and habitat fragmentation with no social or economic benefit to offset it, she said.

In its planning application, Invicta Construction insisted that the land, which is entirely primary habitat, will be used to create affordable lots for low income residents.

Home designs are being created, it said, and the land will later be developed in phases in line with the market response.

But Ebanks-Petrie said if there is no intention to develop these lots, then there is no social benefit or improved living environment to be set against the environmental harm.

The department director previously issued a call for a review of subdivisions in September.

It came after Man-O-War-Cliff applied to create a 49-lot residential subdivision on a 13.6-acre parcel of land off Will Jackson Drive in East End.