A local businessman who decided 13 years ago to build a resort at the Kitty sea wall is facing a number of environmental concerns.
Bernard Yhun, who has already started building his dream resort which he calls Celine Atlantic Resort at the Kitty foreshore, is now faced with setbacks relevant to his plan, based on environmental concerns from the Environ-mental Protection Agency and the National Trust.
According to Eliza Florendo, director of the Environmental Division and Khalid Alladin, environmental officer II at the EPA, Yhun has to ensure that the mangroove and other vegetation in the area are preserved. Alladin noted that the ecosystem in that area supports various life forms that should not be neglected.
But Yhun said he did submit an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) which has considered the impacts of waste disposal management, traffic congestion, mangrove conservation, coastal water quality, erosion, loss of vegetation and workers' and patrons' safety.
James Rose, Chairman of the National Trust, said the Trust's main concern revolves around the aesthetics of the area and in particular, whether the structure will take away from the natural ambience of the surroundings.
Rose also asserted that if citizens are not allowed to dump garbage in the area, this rule should also be applicable to Yhun.
"Our architects are far from impressed with the foundation [of the building] considering the length of time put into acquiring permission [and] the architectural design is unsatisfactory," says Rose.
However, Yhun said he intends to dispose of garbage every day, though he says people dump garbage there daily. On this note he suggested that "Banks DIH and DDL should buy back bottles [from the public] at about five dollars each and recycle them."
In consideration of the environmental concerns surrounding his project Yhun said he intends to upkeep the natural environment of his resort by "trimming the trees and even planting more trees." He also noted that the vegetation will assist in keeping the soil firm and ensure the resort's foundation remains stable.
The resort being built is expected to include a fishpond, mini-roller coaster, a 100 x 50 foot pool and a landing for customers to enjoy sunset breakfasts and moonlit dinners.
So far, Yhun said he has done a cadastral survey, water level and bench level tests, soil tests and a feasibility study to satisfy various technical considerations for the project.
The Mayor and City Council also had some difficulties with some aspects of his plans but these were worked out and the project is progressing on schedule, he said.
His objective he says is to have a resort where people can relax, enjoy the fresh air with their family and watch their children at play. Besides this, he believes that the salt water is good for the skin, cuts and sores; since the silt coming from the Amazon River contains herbal essence from the leaves and other natural debris that dissolve in the Amazonian waters.
Yhun told Stabroek Business that he is not overly concerned about the recent increase in crime.
The first phase of this resort is expected to be complete in December, he said. Several investors he said have also given him lots of co-operation.
Yhun grew up in Lodge and is the father of two. He said his considerable experience in designing and constructing several nightclubs on Sheriff Street, including Buns Beat has aided him in this project.
He attended the St. Phillip's Moore R.C. Primary School and started doing craft, at the age of nine. In addition, he learnt carpentry, plumbing and almost anything in the field of construction, along the way.