The Turks & Caicos Islands Planning Board is reviewing a proposal from Blue Conch Holdings to construct three rock groynes at the Kempinski resort on Grace Bay. The developer seeks to install these structures to combat local beach erosion, a plan that has drawn significant public opposition.
The Environmental Impact Assessment proposes building three T-shaped groynes extending 57, 53, and 42 meters into the ocean to trap sand. Critics argue these structures threaten the Princess Alexandra National Park, citing failed results at Leeward Beach where similar installations created eyesores rather than restoring the shoreline. Coastal experts claim such barriers often displace erosion elsewhere, potentially degrading the area's appeal for visitors.
The board must decide whether to approve this construction or reject it to protect the coastline. Author Ben Stubenberg advocates for an independent study to identify the true causes of erosion and evaluate removing existing groynes instead. This decision carries lasting implications for Grace Bay, as the installation of permanent rock structures is difficult to reverse.