The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs has officially revoked the permit for the management of Sugarland Beach, previously under the control of the Sugarland Community led by Dr. Patricia Laverley.
The termination, effective July 1, 2024, was announced following complaints and breaches of the original lease agreement, according to ministry officials.
In a press release, the Ministry highlighted the numerous complaints it received from the Sugarland Community, on whose behalf the lease was initially granted.
The Ministry stated that the management had failed to comply with the “Sugarland Community Development proposal,” ignoring obligations and failing to engage in meaningful dialogue with the Ministry and other stakeholders.
“The refusal to cooperate with the Ministry, which oversees all Tourism Development Areas, left us with no choice,” the Ministry noted.
The Ministry’s decision aligns with the national Beach Policy Guideline, which emphasizes conditional and temporary approval for beachfront operations.
The guideline specifies, “You are encouraged to abide by the rules and conditions governing the operations of beachfronts. Approval to operate a beachfront is temporal and may be withdrawn when government deems it necessary.”
The Ministry and the National Tourist Board are currently finalizing an agreement with a new, reputable entertainment company that will collaborate with the Sugarland Community to transform the area into a thriving tourism destination.
Meanwhile, individuals or organizations planning events at Sugarland Beach are advised to contact the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary directly.
“Anyone doing business with the former management does so at their own risk. You have been warned,” the statement concluded.
