It is certainly encouraging to hear that a workable arrangement is in place for the operation and maintenance of the Temenos Golf Course, with Cap Juluca undertaking that most welcome responsibility. This has come after a much protracted and agonising delay following the closure of the Flag Luxury project and the fear that the Greg Norman Championship Golf Course would simply deteriorate and Anguilla’s reputation and pride for having one of the Caribbean’s best golf facilities badly impacted. The ownership of Cap Juluca must be highly commended for rescuing this facility.

The arrangement however is by no means an end in itself as it is expected that when a new developer for the Temenos/Flag project is found, that such an investor will become involved in the golf course, an integral section of the closed premises. One wonders why it took so long for some plan to be worked out, though short term, until a permanent solution was arrived at. The Golf Course has been a new and perhaps exciting marketing tool for Anguilla at a very prime economic location on the island. It is known that many tourists have not only been inquiring about this facility as part of their recreation plans in Anguilla, but have actually made their bookings with that in mind, only to be disappointed on arrival.

The arrangement for the operation and maintenance of the Golf Course, however temporary, provides hope that some day, too, some Godsend deal or agreement, call it what you may, would present itself for the taking over and completion of the Temenos/Flag project.

It is a great pity that such an enormous development, the biggest in the Eastern Caribbean, and an expected crown in Anguilla’s upscale tourism industry, has had to suffer such a fate. And this does not only relate to the hotel itself, but to the many Anguillians and other nationals who were benefiting from it, including the Government of Anguilla, in terms of revenue, as well as perhaps smaller properties which might have gained from its operation.

The Temenos/Flag project had been well ahead of Viceroy Hotel and Resort which had likewise experienced financial difficulties, but thankfully found a way out of its dilemma. Unfortunately, the tables are turned. The Temenos/Flag project is closed and desperately needs resurrection while Viceroy, is scheduled to officially open on December 15 and is to be the only such large project opening its doors in the Eastern Caribbean this tourism season. This is reason for commendation for the Viceroy developers and it appears to give credence to the employment of outside labour to hasten its completion and operation.

It is hoped that with the interest of new developers in the Temenos/Flag project, that it will soon be started up. The Salamander Group has come up with some exciting proposals worth seriously looking at by Government with a view to firm approval. There are other proposals to consider and the Government itself is also considering compulsory acquisition as a viable option. There is very little reason for delay and so the marching order appears to be: Quick March, Temenos/Flag!

| Printer-friendly page | Send this article to a friend |

World News