DOMINICA: Cabrits Resort Kempinski Opening End 2017

The Cabrits Resort Kempinski is the most advanced of the government of Dominica's Citizenship by Investment (CBI) projects.

The CBI programme is aimed at developing the island's tourism by facilitating the financing of a number of luxury hotels, most of which are still on the drawing board.

Construction work began in June last year on the Kempinski, with completion of all the structural fabric of the buildings due in the next six months. More than 200 workers are on site daily, with more than 75 percent of them coming from the local community.

We are delighted to see this first step in what will be the major project on the northwest coast of Dominica, said Roosevelt Skerrit, prime minister of Dominica.

It is this government's policy to bring investment and jobs that are sustainable to the country. On the edge of the Cabrits National Park, we think this will be a major draw for discerning travellers from all over the world.”

Several of the key contracts are close to being finalised, including the award of the mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) sub-contractor; the contract with the fitout contractor; and for all the doors and windows.

We are delighted with the rate of progress, says Mohammed Asaria, vice chairman of Range Developments, the project's sponsor.

There is terrific interest in Dominica as an investment destination, and I think people really appreciate the quality of work that is being undertaken. Investors trust us as we deliver on our promises.

Located on the northwest of the island near to the country's second largest town of Portsmouth, nothing on this scale has been built in Dominica since the Windsor Park cricket pitch ten years ago. The total area of the site is 66,700m2 (15.1 acres).

We are making excellent progress,” says Garry Swarbrick, senior project manager at Range Developments. All the buildings have been set out, including the main building with the public areas and the nine accommodation units.

It's good to see how well the international and local workforces are co-operating and pulling together.

Developed by award-winning international property company Range Developments, the Cabrits Resort Kempinski was designed by Arcadia Design Architects. The building work is being carried out by contractor NH International (Caribbean) Ltd.

Announcements on the identity of the MEP and fit out contract will be made shortly.

It will be run by Europe's oldest luxury hotel group, the Kempinski Hotels, which was founded in 1897 and manages a portfolio of 75 five-star hotels in 31 countries.

On completion, the resort in Douglas Bay will boast a 160-room hotel with a spa, and a selection of swimming pools, beach bars and rest