Minister with responsibility for Physical Planning, Hon. Herod Stanislas, has reiterated government’s commitment to guarding the right of citizens to access all beaches on the island.

The assurance comes amid public concern regarding the proposed Cabot Saint Lucia Development at Cap Estate. The Cabinet of Ministers approved a lease of the Queen’s Chain adjacent to the development site for 75 years. Minister Stanislas said the approval does not bar Saint Lucians from accessing the Cas en Bas beach.

The Physical Planning minister said the government is aware and sensitive to the concerns surrounding the continued operation of Marjorie’s Restaurant which has been a staple at the Cas en Bas Beach for more than 20 years. Marjorie Lambert in 2001 was issued a lease for five years for the block and parcel on which her establishment is situated. Ms Lambert currently holds a one-year lease.

The leasing of the Queen’s Chain, Minister Stanislas said, has been practice for decades.

Cabot Saint Lucia has submitted a master plan to the Department of Physical Planning. Hon  Stanislas said the Department is processing the proposals in phases. Upon final approval, the Minister stressed, there will be no restricted access to the Cas en Bas beach.