NASSAU, BAHAMAS – A Supreme Court judge has ordered a halt to development at Gillam Bay in Abaco, following a legal challenge by Save Gillam Bay Collective.
Justice Franklyn Williams KC granted an injunction blocking further construction, excavation and land clearing associated with the proposed Seashells at Gillam Bay development on Green Turtle Cay.
The environmental group challenged government approvals, raising concerns about inadequate public consultation and the decision not to require a full Environmental Impact Assessment.
The judge questioned aspects of the approval process and raised concerns about the risk of irreversible damage to the area’s sensitive coastal environment.
The government defended the project, maintaining that it would have a low environmental impact while bringing economic benefits to Abaco.
However, the court determined that the potential environmental risks justified temporarily stopping construction.
The injunction remains in effect pending judicial review, unless varied by the court.
