The Environmental Management Authority (EMA) continues to advance transparent, science-based decision-making in support of national development, with the issuance of a Certificate of Environmental Clearance (CEC) for a major tourism project in Tobago. This approval reflects the EMA’s consistent application of its legislative mandate while enabling strategic investment aligned with sustainable economic growth and environmental stewardship.
The EMA has granted CEC6451/2022 to Superior Hotels of Trinidad and Tobago Limited for the development of a Marriott-branded hotel and resort at Rocky Point, Mt. Irvine, Tobago. The project, to be undertaken on approximately 11.99 hectares, supports Government’s policy focus on improving the ease of doing business while maintaining robust environmental oversight.
Commenting on the approval, Sally Maharaj, EMA’s Technical Manager (Ag.) stated: “This approval represents a key strategic effort by the EMA under the guidance of the new Board of Directors, reflecting a strengthened, more collaborative approach to engagement with stakeholders. It underscores our commitment to improving the ease of doing business while upholding rigorous environmental standards, in support of sustainable development across Trinidad and Tobago.”
This development represents a significant investment in Tobago’s tourism sector, aimed at expanding accommodation capacity, enhancing the visitor experience through a 3.5-star offering, and supporting increased international arrivals. The project will comprise a 200-room hotel, villas and townhouses, complemented by recreational amenities and thoughtfully designed green spaces that integrate with the natural environment.
In keeping with the EMA’s regulatory requirements, the application was subject to a comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), which evaluated potential effects on the physical, biological and socio-economic environments. This process included stakeholder engagement through public consultations and targeted discussions with key interest groups, ensuring that community perspectives were considered.
The EMA’s review confirmed that potential environmental and social impacts have been appropriately identified and addressed through robust mitigation measures embedded in the project design. These include safeguards to protect sensitive coastal ecosystems, including coral reefs, through strict controls on effluent discharge, setbacks, earthworks and wastewater management. Further measures will be included to avoid, minimise and mitigate impacts on sea turtles and their nesting habitats, including construction scheduling, lighting controls, beach management protocols and pollution prevention, supported by ongoing monitoring and adaptive management.
Additional provisions address drainage and water quality management, preservation of cultural heritage features such as Fort Monck, and the maintenance of public access to the shoreline. Notably, the approved development does not include any coastal or marine works. The project is expected to generate meaningful socio-economic benefits, including employment opportunities during both construction and operation, increased demand for local goods and services, and stronger linkages with Tobago’s tourism and small business sectors.
Mr. John Aboud, Chairman of Superior Hotels Trinidad and Tobago welcomed the approval, noting: “We have noted greater collaboration, hand-holding, not comprising environmental standards, but guiding throughout the process. We are very encouraged by the EMA’s new approach to the approvals process. As an investor and developer, this level of efficiency and collaboration will go a long way in strengthening investor confidence and encouraging further development within Trinidad and Tobago.”
The issuance of this CEC underscores the EMA’s role in balancing environmental protection with sustainable economic advancement. While the EMA’s assessment focuses on environmental considerations within its legal remit, other agencies, including the Town and Country Planning Division, the Water and Sewerage Authority, and the Divisions of the Tobago House of Assembly, will address approvals within their respective jurisdictions. This coordinated framework ensures that development is guided by a comprehensive, transparent and accountable process.
The EMA remains steadfast in its mandate to ensure that development across Trinidad and Tobago proceeds responsibly, protecting the environment, supporting communities, and securing sustainable prosperity for current and future generations.
