The Central Planning Authority has given conditional approval for a new football field and pavilion in George Town.
Dart-owned Cayman Shores Development Ltd. presented its plans for the $2.9 million project to the CPA last month, and according to recently published meeting minutes, the board approved the application, with some stipulations.
This proposal comes at the same time that the Cayman Islands Football Association applying to the planning board to build two new pitches in the Prospect area for an estimated $280,000.
That application was adjourned, as the board members requested a plan from a licensed land surveyor that clearly shows the northern boundary of the site and how it fits with the existing field and vegetative buffer.
The Cayman Shores’ proposal includes a pavilion, regulation football field, three large training areas, three smaller training areas, a 100-metre running track, and 78-spot parking – all located near the National Gallery.
The authority found that this proposal was in an appropriate location that had safe access between it and the nearby Cayman International School, as well as convenient road access via Jasmine Blossom Way.
Though the project did have objectors concerned about the the potential impact on mangrove forests in the area, CPA members said they did not see reason enough to refuse building permission.
“The lands are not designated as a conservation area per the National Conservation Act,” the minutes read. “A decision to preserve the lands in their natural state is at the discretion of the private land owner.”
They continued, “If the objectors wish the lands to remain as they are now to address their ideas of storm protection and wildlife preservation, then they should consider offering to purchase the lands from the current owner.”
Members also said they were satisfied with planned efforts to minimize noise, light and air pollution in the area, and saw no evidence for concern about increased vandalism or infrastructure strain.
Conditions for the approval included revising plans to include a minimum 30-foot vegetative buffer surrounding the site and some permit approvals.
Editor’s Note: The Cayman Compass is a subsidiary of Dart Media and Entertainment.
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