There have been lots of rumors circulating about a major new development on Norman Island. Here is what we know to date:
On November 22, 2018, with a view towards improving the territory’s international reputation as a tourism destination, the BVI Government signed an agreement for the Norman Island Development Project whose goal is to establish a high-end resort on the island.
The development, which is projected to cost in the upwards of $200 million, will the see the construction of three potential 20 to 30-room hotels and will provide ownership opportunities for 75 to 100 residences with a estimated cost of between two and five million dollars each. The development will also include the addition of another restaurant on the island, a floating pool, a beach bar, a water sports centre, as well as a spa, an observatory, and boat slips for day visitors and residents.
According a November 22, 2018 article in the BVI Platinum News, the owner of Norman Island, Dr. Henry Jarecki, explained that the focus will be to create a luxurious resort that is also environmentally sensitive. “We’re going to create environmentally sensitive tourism capability on Norman Island,” he stated, later adding that, “Maintaining the greenness of that island is going to be one of the important things.” “It’s going to make a big difference to the international reputation and to the long term success of our country,” he further shared. Dr. Jarecki also owns Guana Island in the BVI.
If these plans come to fruition, Norman Island will be transformed forever from an island with merely two small beach front restaurants to having a full-fledged luxury resort. There is no indication, however, as to the exact timeline of the project or when it might commence. According to a 5/25/18 article in the BVI Beacon, “Dr. Jarecki envisions the project lasting five to 10 years.”
