Royal Gazette: Groups hope government RFP will breathe new life into Southlands
A conservation group has expressed hope that a recent government procurement notice would mean new life for empty buildings at the Southlands national park.
However, the Bermuda National Trust echoed concerns voiced by the Bermuda Audubon Society about plans for an event lawn and parking area on the southeast corner of the property.
Karen Border, BNT executive director, said: “BNT is pleased that there is finally a focus on renovating most of the buildings at Southlands, in particular the Grade 2 listed main cottage, which was allowed to deteriorate to a very bad state.
“We hope that any approved redevelopment of buildings will indeed be complementary to the park, as stated in the request for proposals.
“Southlands is a wonderful community amenity and as a very large site it offers the potential for the public to enjoy it many ways while still protecting its natural and undeveloped appeal.”
The charity also said the proposed siting of a café and parking area to the west of the beach entrance was appropriately placed on brownfield land.
“However, we continue to be concerned about the potential for an events lawn and parking area being built on woodland immediately west of the Bermudiana Beach Resort,” Ms Border added.
“A previous planning application for that development was rejected, but another application has since been submitted.”
That application, submitted in August, was listed yesterday as “on hold” with no documents attached.