TCI NPSDP - 0.0-2.0 Executive Summary, Introduction, and Context by tcinpdp

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GOVERNMENT OF THE TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS

NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

DRAFT PLAN 29 JULY 2020

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TABLE OF CONTENTS EXECUTIVE SUMMARY WELCOME FROM THE MINISTER AND DIRECTOR HOW TO READ & USE THE NPSDP

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INTRODUCTION HOW THE PLAN WAS FORMED PLANNING PROCESS

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CONTEXT GEOGRAPHIC CONTEXT DOMESTIC + INTERNATIONAL CONTEXT SUMMARY OF ANALYSIS BUILDING BLOCKS OF NPSDP

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VISION + PRINCIPLES VISION PRINCIPLES KEY UNDERSTANDINGS ISLAND THEMES

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GOALS, OBJECTIVES, + STRATEGIES GOALS OBJECTIVES STRATEGIES

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LAND USE TYPOLOGIES

5 .1 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.5 5.6

PROVIDENCIALES NORTH CAICOS MIDDLE CAICOS SOUTH CAICOS GRAND TURK SALT CAY

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IMPLEMENTATION, MONITORING, + EVALUATION

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CONCLUSION

KEY TERMS TABLES FIGURES

APPENDICES SITE INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS REPORT EXPERTISE MAPS DESIGN GUIDELINES SURVEY REPORT

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

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Land Use Plans Based on the available information from TCI development manual, National Parks ordinance and Physical Planning ordinance, this chapter deﬁnes different Land use categories and their permitted and general uses.

In February 2017, the Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing, and Planning of Turks and Caicos issued an invitation to tender for the preparation of a ten (10) year National Physical Sustainable Development Plan (NPSDP) for the Turks and Caicos Islands. The plan is meant to serve as the strategic planning tool aimed at guiding future decisions and outcomes towards economic prosperity, social equity and justice, and the preservation of the natural environment.

Six Islands Following the previous chapter and other analysis completed, this chapter focuses on each island’s framework and propose land use plan. It also offers perspectives on Area action plan.

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Implementation, Monitoring, Evaluation This is the chapter that discusses how this plan will be implemented, monitored and evaluated in future

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The plan development is divided in ﬁve phases, starting with the Site Inventory and Analysis, which is the objective of Phase One. This document represents the Phase 4 of our work- the Draft National Physical Development plan. The draft report contains necessary suggestions from consultants, important research from other phases, supporting documents and public feedback from TCI.

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Conclusion

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Appendix Within the appendices there will be greater detail on the site inventory and analysis report, economic and tourism studies and all anaysis maps that were done by the consultant team.

The Draft NPSDP is comprised of the following:

Introduction An overview of the plan, how the plan was formed and planning process

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The Context/Existing Condition Geographic context, Domestic context covers the islands, international context discusses TCI on a global scale, Analysis overview, Building Blocks includes the components utilized to build the the National Physical Sustainable plan.

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Vision + Principles This chapter establishes visions for future sustainable development of TCI. It discusses the key themes of the framework and the visions build based on thoses key elements.

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Strategic Goals, Objectives, and Outcomes This chapter highlights the strategies and objectives to organize the frameowork to achieve the goals and assess probable outcomes from the goals.

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WELCOME LETTERS FROM THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS MINISTER OF INFRASTRUCTURE, HOUSING AND PLANNING

It gives me great please to welcome you to the official launch of the website for the 2020 National Physical Sustainable Development Plan (NPSDP) for the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI). In keeping with our mandate within “The Change Document”, my Government has commissioned the preparation of a NPSDP for the TCI.

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The Plan that will provide a framework for sustainable development of the islands by articulating sustainable land use zoning policies, economic and social development strategies, whilst at the same time preserving our beautiful by nature environment for present and future generations of Turks and Caicos Islanders.

My Government has retained EDSA, a Fort Lauderdale based Urban Design Planning Firm to prepare the 2020 NPSDP. The consultants commenced work on the Plan in 2019 and has completed Phase One – Collection, Review and Assimilation of existing data. The 2020 NPSDP will replaced the outdated 1987 plan. The lack of a modern NPSDP for the islands may have contributed to some of the development pressures the islands confront today.

The Plan preparation process and its website offer stakeholders the opportunity to personally participate in the process. Political and Religious Leaders, community grassroot groups, social clubs and organizations and the general public can log on the website and express their aspirations, desires and goals as to how they would like to see their communities developed.

I therefore encourage you to get involved in the plan preparation process by visiting the Plan’s website, completing online surveys and attending public consultations/outreach meetings, whether virtually on in-person. I take this opportunity, to thank you, for your involvement in the Plan preparation process and look forward to seeing you at one the Public Consultation Meetings nearest to you. I also thank the Planning Department personnel and EDSA Consultants for the work they have completed on the Plan thus far.

Mr. Sean Astwood Deputy Premier and Minister of Infrastructure, Housing, and Planning of The Turks and Caicos Islands

THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS ARE CURRENTLY UPDATING THE NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN IN 2020. THE PLAN WILL CREATE A BRIGHT FUTURE OF PRESERVATION AND DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL FOR THE ARCHIPELAGO.

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FROM THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS DIRECTOR OF PLANNING

Welcome to the Launch of the National Physical Sustainable Development Plan (NPSDP)

This plan is will be the strategic planning tool aimed at guiding future decisions and outcomes towards economic prosperity, social equity and justice, and the preservation of the natural environment in the TCI.

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The contract has been awarded to the USA based Urban Planning Firm EDSA who has commenced work since July 2019. The Plan will be done in phases. Phase one of the Plan is under way and will comprise a comprehensive report of the consultancy teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s review and assimilation of the existing data (Studies, interviews, Plans, and documents). At different stages there will be key stakeholder meetings, public consultation meetings and review periods where everyone will be invited to contribute to the development of the plan. This Plan gives us the opportunity to create true sustainable communities, and secure the needs of future generations of Turks and Caicos Islanders.

The Development Plan will guide development for the next ten (10) years. The participation and collaboration of leaders of all political parties; of indigenous people; the business community; environmental activists; and all residents will be important to the process as we prepare the way and a vision for the growth and development of the Turks and Caicos Islands

Mr. Dainer Lightbourne Director of Planning

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INTRODUCTION

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A NEW PLAN INTRODUCTION

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The Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing, and Planning issued an invitation to tender for the preparation of a ten (10) year National Physical Development Plan (NPDP) for the Turks and Caicos Islands in February 2017. At the award of the contract, the plan was renamed the National Physical Sustainable Development Plan (NPSDP). This will be an update to the previous 1987 National Physical Development Plan. The NPSDP will offer TCI a ten-year outlook while also providing a broad strategic overview of all major issues relevant to national development planning. The plan is meant to serve as the strategic planning tool aimed at guiding future decisions and outcomes towards economic prosperity, social equity and justice, and the preservation of the natural environment â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the jewel of the Turks and Caicos.

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1.0- INTRODUCTION

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CONSULTANT TEAM

CLIENT

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A NEW PLAN ORIGINAL SCOPE OF SERVICES (JULY 2017)

Review and Assimilate Existing Data

#1 DRAFT REPORT

The compilation of the NPSDP involved a set of necessary steps for the Government of the Turks and Caicos. The broad scope and complex nature of this initiative required a multi-phase approach. The Scope of Work, conducted over a twelve (12) month period (52 weeks) involved the following methodology.

PHASE 1

+ Site Visits

PHASE 2

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Gap Analysis and Initial Strategy Focus

THE GENERATION OF THE NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABILITY DEVELOPMENT PLAN IS FIVE PHASES, WHICH ENDEAVORS TO SET FORTH A FRAMEWORK FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE ARCHIPELAGO.

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PHASE 3 Site Visits and Public Consultation

PHASE 4 Prepare Draft National Physical Development Plan

PHASE 5 Prepare Final Draft National Physical Development Plan

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Since the original Scope of Services (July 2017) outlined above was executed by the Turks and Caicos Islands Planning Department, there have been several changes that have delayed the project from following the exact Scope noted below:

• Phase 1: Review and Assimilate Existing Data Review of base information provided to the EDSA team in preparation of identifying relevant gaps in the information, preparation for the initial kickoff meeting, and interviews with TCI Government staff. • Phase 2: Gap Analysis and Initial Strategy Focus Per the data review phase, any strategic gaps in information will be provided to the EDSA team for review, to begin the synthesis of data and to determine the direction of the study. During this phase, the analysis methodology will be reﬁned and revised, so that the baseline data can be analyzed and interpretations discovered.

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• Phase 3: Site Visits and Public Consultation In order to facilitate a baseline understanding, site visits, interviews, and meetings with community leaders, government officials, and stakeholder representatives will provide insightful knowledge for the consultant team.

The search and hiring of a project coordinator created a modiﬁed start date for the consultant team. Upcoming elections in 2020 pushed the project end date to October 2020, which reduced the project schedule to ten (10) months instead of the originally agreed upon twelve (12) months. There was a shift and update to the Scope previously agreed upon to include more public consultation, policy focuses, and both local area and area action plans. COVID-19- may impact the overall schedule, although this has not been determined at the time of this publishing.

• Phase 4: Prepare Draft National Physical Development Plan During this phase of work, the “heavy lifting of the interpretation” will occur so that the basis of the draft National Physical Development Plan can be formulated.

• Phase 5: Prepare Final Draft National Physical Development Plan Based on review comments from constituents, the EDSA team will reﬁne the draft report.

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A NEW PLAN PURPOSE

The ultimate goal of NPSDP is a vision for a sustainable future based on the aspirations and collaboration of government, the community, and public and private stakeholders. The overall vision of the NPSDP is to be based on both sustainability and growth while ensuring that the “country’s land and other natural resources yield the greatest beneﬁt to both present and future generations.”

attribute mapping. Applied Technology and Management (ATM) will study coastal conditions and risk and propose development compatibilities on ranked scales. EDS will add local knowledge and considerations to the team as they relate to engineering and infrastructure. Lambert Advisory brings economic expertise in both large and small scale project initiatives. TrafTech Engineering will examine the status of the traffic conditions and future alternatives on the islands. Zago Consulting adds expertise in the tourism industry, which is especially prevalent to the Turks and Caicos Islands. Richmond Financial serves as local liaison to the team. When analyzing past publications and plans, the importance of maintaining balance within the development of the archipelago is abundantly clear. Several documents reference this need of achieving a balance: ● “A balanced, diversiﬁed and competitive economy where the population can realize a high standard of living in a safe and secure environment where environmental protection is a cornerstone of all our development efforts.” - Vision, TCI Socio-Economic Development Plan, 2008-2017 ● “The utilization of the land space of the country by TCIslanders and their Government with due regard for the exiguous nature of the resource and the fragility of the ecology, in all measures to enhance the quality of the life of TCIslanders, and to fulﬁll their social, economic, and cultural goals.” - Vision for Sustainable Land Use, TCI National Socio-Economic Development Framework, Draft National Development Vision, 2007 ● As outlined in the Turks and Caicos Islands Development Manual (April 2014), the National Physical Development Plan “provides a framework for a national pattern for the spatial distribution of economic activities.” The manual highlights areas for preservation, conservation, and future development, while focusing on all aspects – economic, social, physical, and ecological.

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The Government of the Turks and Caicos has had the foresight to establish a Physical Planning Ordinance. The Physical Planning Ordinance sets the foundational legislation for the Planning Department and other governmental entities to regulate the planning and development within the Turks and Caicos Islands. The NPSDP will work with the guidelines and regulations of the Physical Planning Ordinance to further delineate where the country should continue to grow and where preservation is needed. As part of the national plan, there are several important sectors that need to be addressed. These sectors include: ● ● ● ● ● ●

Tourism Agriculture Fishing Industry Services Transportation

The intent of the NPSDP is to strike a balance of economic, social, physical, and environmental objectives that maintain the natural beauty and serenity of the islands while utilizing its natural resources in a sustainable manner, thereby providing for responsible development and growth as the foundation for the updated National Physical Sustainable Development Plan.

EDSA, an international planning, landscape architecture and urban design ﬁrm that has worked in almost 100 countries in its six (6) decade history, assembled a team of international experts to assist the people, government, and stakeholders prepare the 10-year National Physical Sustainable Development Plan. Blue Dolphin Research and Consulting will bring knowledge and skill as it relates to using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and physical

There are strong underlying principles within the 1987 National Physical Development Plan (NPDP) to incorporate within the 2020 update. The land use plan focused on the locations of tourism developments, existing community facilities, infrastructure, and current and future land use trends. These categories are also valid today, but new

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Armed with this vision and building upon the existing information, the consultant team will review the data, deﬁne and develop a methodology for the process, and create land use suitability maps that will lead to a composite map deﬁning the future preservation and development of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

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factors also need to be considered: ● The rapid growth in population, especially on Providenciales, has produced a noticeable strain on the social and ecological systems of the entire archipelago. The rapid growth has also produced a strain on the resources within TCI. ● A large part of the National Physical Development Plan is the preservation and conservation of the entire archipelago. Preservation and conservation both refer to the protection of the environment. Conservation implies a proper human use, whereas preservation is no human use. ● While the Turks and Caicos has policies addressing the preservation and conservation of the islands, climate change brings and increased need for implementation of stricter policies and stronger, more concrete plans. Sea level rise and warming waters are the two biggest environmental issues facing the Turks and Caicos Islands.

PLANNING LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE URBAN DESIGN

BLUE DOLPHIN RESEARCH

ATM

APPLIED TECHNOLOGY AND MANAGEMENT

ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS

LAMBERT ADVISORY

ZAGO SOLUTIONS

ECONOMICS

TOURISM ADVISORS

TRAF TECH ENGINEERING, INC. TRAFFIC ENGINEERING

EDS ENGINEERING DESIGN SERVICES

RICHMOND FINANCIAL LOCAL LIASON

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A NEW PLAN NEXT STEPS The team will then move into physically drafting the National Physical Sustainable Development Plan in phase four and ﬁve. As mentioned previously, there will be six (6) area action plans; there will also be area concept plans:

After site inventory and analysis, phase two constitutes the consultant team reﬁning the project methodology and planning process with the intent of bringing into focus an economic and tourism development strategy. The report is informed through online surveys via a website interface. The consultant team will then move into phase three, which includes public outreach and consultation. Field data will be synthesized into a usable form for the ﬁnal plan and the beginning of preliminary area action plans for the six (6) islands: Providenciales, Grand Turk, North, Middle and South Caicos and Salt Cay. Area action plans will be a similar format to those in the Grand Turk Strategic Development Planning Initiative. The fourth phase will synthesize the work from phase one throught three and have it integrated into a sustainable development framework, produce a Draft National Physical Development Plan for public review and comment and conduct a public comment process.

Providenciales – 6 Area Concept Plans Grand Turk – 2 Area Concept Plans North Caicos – 2 Area Concept Plans Middle Caicos – 1 Area Concept Plan South Caicos – 1 Area Concept Plan Salt Cay – 1 Area Concept Plan

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Land Use Zoning Area Plans Island Plans Public Comments Per Ordinance Presentation of Final Plan with NSC Approval by NSC and Planning Department Presentation and Adoption by Cabinet

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Phase four will wrap up with a presentation and approval from local stakeholders, while phase five will produce a set of specific deliverables within the final National Physical Sustainable Development Plan per the consultancy agreement, described below.

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PHASE ONE DRAFT REPORT STRUCTURE OF DOCUMENT Phase One Report: Site Inventory and Analysis Report

The consultant team has then identiﬁed key development issues to be addressed via the NPSDP. These development issues stem from our research, discussions, conversations with governmental and private stakeholders, and overall understandings thus far in the NPSDP developmental process.

First, the report includes an overview of the plan, how the plan was formed and the overall planning process that took place. This was done in conjunction with a literature review and analysis of the most relevant, foundational information for the National Physical Sustainable Development Plan (NPSDP).

gaps is more of a list form of ‘everything,’ whereas the summary of critical gaps of needed data and knowledge focuses on why pieces of information are critical and what assumptions must be made without them.

Lastly, the consultant team has put together a draft analysis methodology to map potential suitability to move forward to the strategic focus and analysis which constitute the scope of Phase Two. This section highlights the consultant team’s most imperative layers of data to be analyzed individually and together in order to establish the most suitable areas within the TCI archipelago to continue or expand development and those areas to be conserved, preserved, and limited for human development. The team has developed and proposed a draft analysis methodology to map potential suitability.

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Secondly, is a summary of the context and existing conditions. Geographic context, Domestic context covers the islands, international context discusses TCI on a global scale, Analysis overview, Building Blocks includes the components utilized to build the the National Physical Sustainable plan. The consultant team elected to use GIS data to analyze the Turks and Caicos archipelago in tandem with other documents, resources, and data. GIS allows for computation application of a given inventory; in this case the inventory references the data already embedded within the shapeﬁles (layers) of mapped information.

Following the context summary of existing conditions, vision and principles of the development of TCI are included. These were developed to establish visions for future sustainable development of TCI. It discusses the key themes of the framework and the visions build based on thoses key elements. In terms of infrastructure, the hope is to layout a land use plan that will map out the future transportation and infrastructure needs to achieve Vision 2040. Vision 2040 deﬁnes short, medium, and long-term goals focused on economics, governance, social, and built and natural infrastructure to create a sustained, more livable future for Turks and Caicos.

Together, these analyses and summaries combine to complete the Phase One Report: Site Inventory and Analysis Report. See Appendix A1.0 for additional information. The Site Inventory and Analysis Report is the backbone for the subsequent documentation of the Draft National Physical Sustainable Development Plan (NPSDP).

The next section focuses on information requested and received: summary of information gaps and summary of critical gaps of needed data and knowledge. Critical gaps are identiﬁed as data, information, etc that the consultant team understands to exist, but has not yet received. Information gaps encompasses the data and information originally requested in the executed contract and scope, as well as the data and information requested post on-site meetings. The key difference is highlighting the critical pieces of information needed. The summary of information

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DEVELOPMENT PLAN APPROVAL PROCESS INTER-DEPARTMENTAL COLLABORATION The Planning Department depends on the knowledge and expertise of the entities that form the Turks and Caicos Islands Government (TCIG). As shown in the diagram, the initial idea should be spread to relevant departments is granted potential vitality from the Planning Department. Using expertise from TCIG departments is key to creating a cross-collaboration amongst TCIG that perpetuates wellthought decisions. All proposed developments granted a review by the Planning Department should also be granted a review by the respective related TCIG governmental entities. For example, if a new housing development is proposed, the Housing Department should be granted a review of the proposal and submit their questions, comments, and concerns to the Planning Department.

The Turks and Caicos Islands Planning Department is the logical nexus of coordination for development plan approval. The department already follows an established development plan approval process via the Development Manual (April 2014) and Physical Planning Ordinance (update August 2009).

There are two vital steps that the Planning Department should follow to streamline the development process and continually make development and preservation decisions that fall in line with the National Physical Sustainable Development Plan (NPSDP). Firstly, the development plan approval process should always start with the Planning Department. Secondly, there needs to be an official step of inter-department coordination with the Planning Department.

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START WITH THE PLANNING DEPARTMENT

OTHER CONSIDERATIONS

TCIG departmental entities should discuss potential projects or developments with the Planning Department as soon as possible. The Planning Department will know the NPSDP the best compared to other TCIG entities and will be able to make sure the preservation and development standards and guidelines established in the NPSDP are upheld across the archipelago. The Planning Department is also well-versed in piecing all of the pieces of development happening simultaneously together for one cohesive island development scheme. The Planning Department will understand not only where development can and cannot go, but also when public amenities, such as parks and public spaces are to be stretched too thin or need to be protected, such as the current beach access situation on Providenciales. For example, it’s imperative in that situation that someone who oversees the development throughout the entire island (and archipelago) should be well-versed in all current and proposed projects. Other departments can bring proposed projects and ideas to the Planning Department; however, the Planning Department needs to be involved as early as possible to catch potential discrepancies with the NPSDP, Development Manual, and other departments visions, guidelines, and policies. The department will act as a manager, making sure there is no discrepancies between current and proposed developments. It is imperative to create a space for cross-collaboration and openness amongst the TCIG departments.

The National Physical Sustainable Development Plan should be treated as the first step in the development plan approval process. The first questions asked should be: does this project align with the principle, goals, and objectives of the NPSDP; does this project align with the island-specific framework and land use plan? These questions are imperative in starting off the development plan approval process. If a project is not aligned the NPSDP, there should be a very strong case made by the developer or permit applicant as to why the project should move forward. The Planning Department should consider advisory boards as a method of local community engagement. For example, Providenciales would benefit greatly from an established bicycling network throughout the island. A Pedestrian and Bicycling Board would be great advocates of identifying the areas that need these specific infrastructure improvements. The Pedestrian and Bicycling Advisory Board will be representative of the larger population and would advise the Physical Planning Board. This is a common system of representation within the United States. There are many caveats and slight differences between the US precedents; however, this is an actionable item the Planning Department could set into motion for more public input added to the planning process.

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Department of Environmental + Coastal Resources

START WITH

Other

PLANNING

PROPOSAL [PRE PERMIT APPLICATION]

Department of Housing

PERMIT / APPROVAL PROCESS

PROJECT REALIZATION

Invest TCI

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CONCLUSION

Overarchingly, the Turks and Caicos Islands need to tie the physical development to the social, economic, and ecological preservation and development of the islands. The National Physical Sustainable Development Plan (NDSDP) will indicate keys areas to preserve and develop within the archipelago. Unlike other plans through the governmental and consultants of the Turks and Caicos Islands, the NPSDP will set forth a plan and tie the goals, strategies, and objectives/initiatives to physical locations. This will prescribe more accountability on all sides â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the TCI governmental entities, local stakeholders and investors, and TCIslanders.

SOCIAL

D STRIVES TO CREATE A BALANCE BETWEEN THE CREATED ENVIRONMENT, AND THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT WHICH MAKES THE ARCHIPELAGO SO SPECIAL.

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ECOLOGICAL

N A BIL I TAI T Y

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THE NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

ECONOMIC

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GEOGRAPHICAL

THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS GEOGRAPHIC LOCATION

The Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) are a part of the Lucayan Archipelago, which is comprised of the Bahamas and the TCI. The Islands are located south and east of the Bahamas and north of Haiti and the Dominican Republic.

Grand Turk is the governmental center of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Grand Turk is also known for its Grand Turk Cruise Center, which is a hub for Carnival Cruise Lines and provides an almost daily inﬂux of tourists to the islands reaching over 3,000. The island has a history of salt production as well; however, salt is not in production today. Grand Turk is known for its more boutique hotel accommodations and slower pace, especially compared to Providenciales.

The Turks and Caicos Islands comprise over 40 cays and/ or islands. The eight largest islands are West Caicos, Providenciales, North Caicos, Middle Caicos, East Caicos, South Caicos, Grand Turk, and Salt Cay.

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Each island has its own deﬁning characteristics. Providenciales, which has known an extensive building boom in the last two decades, is known for its numerous developments, speciﬁcally the stretch of Grace Bay with its sandy beaches. The island features the largest TCI international airport of the islands, and a wide range of tourism opportunities. Providenciales also has the largest population.

Salt Cay is the smallest of the inhabited islands. The island was a large production site for salt; however, similar to other islands, Salt Cay does not currently produce any salt. There have been multiple development proposals on Salt Cay, but none have moved forward thus far. The island has one of the smallest populations of the TCI – less than 100 people. There are no paved roads. Salt Cay offers both diving and whale watching, as well as a few day trip options for Grand Turk tourists.

North Caicos and Middle Caicos are currently connected via a causeway. Both North and Middle Caicos used to be the hub of cotton and sisal plantations and agriculture; however, as though industries have faded, agriculture still exists to a greater scale on North Caicos than any other island in the TCI. North and Middle Caicos do cater to more adventurous tourists, comparatively to Providenciales and Grand Turk.

West and East Caicos, while not included in this planning effort, are both known for their lack of inhabitants. West Caicos has had many development proposals through the years, most notably the failed Lehman Brothers development during the 2008/2009 economic recession. The majority of East Caicos is Crown Land and protected as part of national parks and protected area systems. Other notably cays have private residences and upscale resorts; most, if not all, are only accessible by boat.

South Caicos is known for its history as the head of the TCI ﬁshing industry and salt production. Fishing and massive salt ﬂats (salinas) make up the main natural attractions of South Caicos. The island is also home to an exclusive resort.

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NORTH CAICOS

MIDDLE CAICOS

SOUTH CAICOS GRAND TURK

S A LT C A Y

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PROVIDENTIALES

THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS (TCI) ARE A PART OF THE LUCAYAN ARCHIPELAGO, WHICH IS COMPRISED OVER 40 CAYS AND/OR ISLANDS. THE EIGHT LARGEST ISLANDS ARE WEST CAICOS, PROVIDENCIALES, NORTH CAICOS, MIDDLE CAICOS, EAST CAICOS, SOUTH CAICOS, GRAND TURK, AND SALT CAY.

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GEOGRAPHICAL

THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS HISTORY

SOVEREIGNTY

As previously stated, the Turks and Caicos Islands are a part of the Lucayan Archipelago. They were originally inhabited by the Lucayan people, who were a part of the larger Tanio peoples who occupied the entire Caribbean Island region. The Lucayan archipelago is considered as the original landing of Christopher Columbus.

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The Turks and Caicos Islands are a territory of England. As a British Overseas Territory (BOTs), the TCI government functions in a similar fashion to the UK, but it is selfgoverning. Her Majesty, the Queen of England, appoints a Governor of the Islands as a representative of the Crown in the Islands. The Islands elect a Premier, who is the head of the Government and who oversees seven Ministries, comprising the (1) Ministry of Health, Agriculture, Human Services, and Sports, (2) Ministry of Finance, Trade, and Investment, (3) Ministry of Education, Youth, Culture, and Library Services, (4) Ministry of Border Control and Labour, (5) Ministry of Home Affairs, Transportation, and Communication, (6) Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing, and Planning, and (7) Ministry of Tourism, Environment, and Heritage.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION

Four islands border Caicos Bank and two are separated by the deep and open ocean waters of Turks Island Passage. A bank references shallow, underwater plateaus surrounding the cays or islands. These plateaus allow for easier human access to the vast underwater kingdom right offthebeachesofTCI.Theplateauisalsoknownforgiving way to the “wall”; this is known for the great diving potential very close to the islands. The two banks are separated by the Turks Island Passage, which is approximately 2,200 meters deep. The Caicos Bank is comprised of the Caicos

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Islands: West Caicos, North Caicos, Middle Caicos, East Caicos, South Caicos, and Providenciales. The Turks Islands include Grand Turk and Salt Cay.The archipelago land areas covers 950 km2 with just under 400 km of coastline. Half of all coastline is sandy beach. There are no lakes or rivers throughout the archipelago. The basis of the Turks and Caicos Islands landforms is limestone though the island of North Caicos is known for having the richest top layer of soil. The other islands are characterized by their rocky, limestone-based top-most layer. Turks and Caicos enjoy their near-perfect sunny weather; the TCI has over 350 days of sunshine and little rain.

CULTURAL DESCRIPTION

Flora and Fauna is abundant in the Turks and Caicos. The islands have enacted a robust National Parks and protected area systems to preserve the beauty of TCI. The Turks and Caicos Islands have one Ramsar site: North, Middle, and East Caicos Nature Reserve. The vast wetland is located amongst the islands of North, Middle, and East Caicos, comprising almost 135,000 acres. The Ramsar site references the Ramsar Convention (Convention on Wetlands) held in 1971 with policies and site (2,300) protection enacted in 1975. The North, Middle, and East Caicos Nature Reserve contains open ďŹ&#x201A;ats, mangrove forest, mangrove channels, and an abundance of wildlife.

The current population of the Turks and Caicos Islands is estimated by the World Bank to be at 37,665 people (2018). Comparatively, the World Bank estimates the Cayman Islands population at almost 65,000 and the British Virgin Islands population at just under 30,000 people (2018). Providenciales is the most populated island, however the capital of TCI is Cockburn Town, Grand Turk. Grand Turk is the next most populous island, followed by North Caicos, South Caicos, Middle Caicos, and Salt Cay. West Caicos and East Caicos are not inhabited. There are other small cays/islands with private residences and resorts, such as Parrot Cay, Water Cay, and Ambergris Cay, among others.

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The Turks and Caicos Islands are known for beautiful beaches, clear waters, world-class resorts, and vast underwater exploration opportunities. Tourism and offshore ďŹ nancial companies make up the largest industries within the archipelago. The Turks and Caicos Islands people are referred to as TCIslanders. English is the official language and the U.S. dollar ($) is the currency. The Turks and Caicos Islands are considered a part of the Caribbean culture even though the islands are technically not within the Caribbean Sea.

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GLOBAL PRESENCE INTERNATIONAL: TCI ON A GLOBAL SCALE

Although Turks and Caicos is made up of numerous individual islands, vehicular connectivity is only available between North and Middle Caicos. Travel between other islands depends on air or marine methods. Presently, the connection through ferries and boats plays a strong role regionally between all islands.

The Turks and Caicos Islands are known internationally for sandy beaches, crystal clear water full of marine life, and excellent water sport activities, among others. The islands are a hot spot for international tourists, with a large percentage originating from North America and Europe. As an overseas territory of the United Kingdom located 39 miles south-east of the Bahamas and 575 miles south of Miami, Florida, the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) have globally expanded their economic growth within the international tourism and financial services sectors. Featuring an international airport and cruise terminal, the islands are a hub as an international destination. In addition, the cruise line industry has a larger influence on the tourism economy within TCI, specifically on Grand Turk. The options for a visitor’s experience is wide; the combination of international air and sea travel options paired with island connectivity by ferries and boats and a wide offering for adventurous touristic excursions offers numerous possibilities. From the 1980’s until now, tourism and hospitality have been the largest source of economic prosperity for TCI. In comparison with the surrounding Caribbean islands, Turks and Caicos has the highest percentage of participation in GDP within that economic sector of all the countries in the adjacent Caribbean.

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DOMESTIC: THE ISLANDS, ONE TCI

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A N A LY S I S O V E R V I E W

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PHASE 1 - ANALYSIS OVERVIEW

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PHASE 1 (ANALYSIS) EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

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Summary of Information Gaps This chapter highlights the data and other information that is missing from the consultant team’s collection.

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The plan development is divided in ﬁve phases, starting with the Site Inventory and Analysis, which is the objective of Phase One of the current comprehensive Report. The report contains the consultant team’s collection, review, and assimilation of existing data. The data presented here is based on information that has been collected with the help of the Turks and Caicos government, as well as a result of the consultant team’s independent research.

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The Phase One Report is comprised of the following:

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Summary of GIS Inventory and Analysis A summary of the team’s GIS database and component parts and issues, concerns, and observations.

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Summary Synthesis of Existing Studies, Plans, and Documents A compilation of existing relevant studies, plans, and documents to base the future of preservation and development across the archipelago

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Summary of Assessments The assessments cover information related to the consultant’s expertise on several ﬁelds. Each part of the larger summary provides an in-depth look at inventory, analysis, methodological approach for analyzation, and evaluation for each of the following:  Coastal Resources  GIS and Mapping  Economics  Tourism  Infrastructure  Traffic Conditions

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Summary of Critical Gaps of Needed Data and Knowledge Based on the information gaps discussed in the previous chapter, the consultant team has identified critical gaps of needed data and knowledge. Critical gaps refer to data and information that are vital to the foundational understanding of all aspects related to the Turks and Caicos and identifying key development issues and solutions for the 2020 NPSDP. Some time constraints, non-existent data, and limitations of access are to be expected, but the consultant team hopes that additional data may still become available. Summary of Key Development Issues Following the collected data review, the consultant team has collectively agreed upon a few broad, key development issues that should be addressed through the 2020 NPSDP. These issues will continue to be refined and added to as the team moves through Phase Two, Three, and the Final NPSDP. Approach to the Development Plan for Approval Process This is the approach that defines steps that the NPSDP process will follow throughout its five phases of development. Analysis Methodology for Mapping Suitability finally, the team has developed and proposed a draft analysis methodology to map potential suitability in Phases Two and Three. The analysis methodology will be refined as the plan starts to take form and with continued public consultation.

Together, these analyses and summaries combine to complete the Phase One Draft Report #1: Site Inventory and Analysis Report, which concludes the ﬁrst phase of the 2020 National Physical Sustainable Development Plan for the Islands of the Turks and Caicos. See Appendix A1.0 for additional information.

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BUILDING BLOCKS

VISION 2040 PHYSICAL PLANNING ORDINANCE

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NATIONAL PARKS ORDINANCE

BUILDING BLOCKS

ENVIRONMENTAL CHARTER

UN SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS

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SITE INVENTORY & ANALYSIS REPORT

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KEY DOCUMENTS INTRODUCTION The following are the documents of all qualitative data received related to the development of the 2020 NPSDP; the list of received data is followed by a summary and review of key documents per the consultant team.

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The process of creating an updated National Physical Sustainable Development Plan (NPSDP) for the Turks and Caicos Islands starts with a compilation of existing relevant studies, plans, and documents to base the future of preservation and development across the archipelago. Per the consultancy agreement and scope, the consultant team was not to create, but rather receive and analyze existing data and information related to the NPSDP. Collection, inventory, and analysis is vital to the remainder of the planning and development process, as it sets the foundational understanding of the Turks and Caicos archipelago for the consultant team.

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KEY DOCUMENTS VISION 2040 Vision 2040 includes ﬁve sustainable development dimensions (goals): (1) high national income and wealth, (2) a socially cohesive society, (3) a healthy natural environment, heritage, and cultural assets, (4) citizen security, and (5) good governance. The sustainable dimensions are followed by necessary conditions, for which each SDD has multiple.

Vision 2040 has similar dimensions and necessary conditions to the NPSDP and reminds the consultant team where TCIslanders see themselves in the future: “By 2040, a united Turks and Caicos Islands will be a global leader in levels of prosperity and human development. Our people will be positions to be fully responsible for our collection future as a nation. We will have a more resilient country that balances economic, social, and environmental development for the greater beneﬁt of all our people and our posterity.”

The vision plans for the implementation of strategies and policies through “ﬂagship priorities”; these refer to ﬁrst steps to connect governmental entity budgets with people to monitor and evaluate and future planning. Although the team did not receive the monitoring and evaluation indicator matrix, the team will capitalize on the sustainable development dimensions and necessary conditions framework provided and make sure the NPSDP addresses all dimensions as to not hinder Vision 2040 in any way.

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Vision 2040 states the Turks and Caicos Islands will be a “resilient, inclusive, caring, and peaceful country that: Turks and Caicos Islanders are proud of; is highly regarded by its residents; is protected for the beneﬁt of future generations; and has a level of prosperity and human development that is similar to that attained by developed countries.”

(See Table)

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THE SUSTAINABILITY DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK CASCADE OF GOALS

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KEY DOCUMENTS TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS PHYSICAL PLANNING ORDINANCE 2009

The National Parks Ordinance sets forth the powers and permitting for any form of development within parks, nature reserves, sanctuaries and areas of historical interest and the conservation of the natural environment and ecology of the islands. Any area(s) designated as a national park shall be open to members of the public for recreational use. Any area(s) designated as a nature reserve may be used for agricultural, arboricultural, pisciculture, sporting and recreational purposes, subject to restrictions as may be prescribed. Any area(s) designated as a sanctuary shall be made primarily for the purpose of the protection of the natural ecology and avoid disturbance of the area by human beings. Any area(s) designated of historical interest shall be primarily for the purpose of protecting an object of historical interest therein. The consultant team will reference the National Parks Ordinance as necessary. The team concurs that National Parks are important designations and recognize that the government may want to maintain that status. This, however, did not preclude the team from analyzing shoreline areas within the parks with regard to suitability.

The Turks and Caicos Islands Physical Planning Ordinance was revised most recently in August 2009. The Physical Planning Ordinance sets the foundational legislation for the Planning Department and other governmental entities to regulate planning and development within the Turks and Caicos Islands. It encompasses the Physical Planning Board, Building, Development Permissions, and Permitted Development Regulations. An important aspect to the public, the Physical Planning Ordinance sets out regulations (standards) for development plan approval and development control.

NATIONAL PARKS ORDINANCE

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The consultant team will address the Physical Planning Ordinance as necessary but believes a good understanding is all that is necessary at this time. The team has no plans to propose a change in legislation, while it is more likely the consultants will propose additions development and zoning regulations.

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ENVIRONMENT CHARTER 2001  No poverty  Zero hunger  Good Health and Well-Being  Quality Education  Gender Equality  Clean Water and Sanitation  Affordable and Clean Energy  Decent Work and Economic Growth  industry, innovation, and infrastructure  Reduced Inequalities  Sustainable Cities and Communities  Responsible Consumption and Production  Climate Action  Life Below Water  Life on Land  Peace and Justice Strong Institutions  Partnerships for the Goals. All 17 goals can apply to the Turks and Caicos Islands, and they are attempting to achieve these goals.

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The Turks and Caicos Environment Charter was produced by the United Kingdom’s Overseas Territories Environment Programme. It lays out both a list of guiding principles and commitments to be undertaken jointly between the government of the United Kingdom and the Turks and Caicos Islands. It breaks the ‘commitments’ into two lists – one for each respective government entity. The Environment Charter focuses on both humans and the environment. The UK government will share already established resources with TCI, while the TCI government (TCIG) will focus on bringing people and local knowledge together to frame regulations, policies, and strategies on the island. Both governments commit to following the principles of the Rio Declaration on Environment and Development 1992.

The Environment Charter plays an important role of setting a base understanding of what is expected from the TCIG and what additional resources the UK government can add in protecting the beauty of the Turks and Caicos Islands. A key here is the cooperation pledged by both governments, which includes a list of implementation strategies. It is unclear if the implementation strategies have been established and remain in use today, over ten years later. There are a multitude of biodiversity studies and publications that could be of a result of the Environment Charter. For the most part, the Environment Charter conﬁrms the foundation of the NPDP: binding the positive growth of human development and environmental protection.

UNITED NATIONS SUSTAINABILITY GOALS The United Nations established 17 sustainability goals in 2015 as the follow up to the Millennium Development Goals (2000-2015). The eight United Nations Millennium Development Goals were established as the original callto-action focusing on six aspects: poverty, hunger, disease, illiteracy, environmental degradation, and discrimination against women. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) succeeded the Millennium Development Goals in 2016. There are seventeen (17) goals that are projected to 2030.

The Department of Statistics is tracking the progress via its collection of quantitative data; the department has tied together the TCI Vision 2040 with sustainable development, for which the SDGs are embedded. The department mentioned a few challenges: a lack of commitment from stakeholders, a lack of human resources, and a lack of funding. They are collecting data through the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) which was developed by UNICEF in the 1990s; MICS collects information relating to 11 SDGs. There are a few ‘next steps’ the Department of Statistics plans to take in order to further deﬁne and reach the SDGs; these actions include identifying stakeholders directly related to each goal, establishing a committee focused on the SDGs obtainment, and using MOUs to allow for the exchange of information relating to the SDGs more readily. The team plans to take the Sustainable Development Goals into consideration with every decision made in the 2020 NPSDP. The future development and preservation of the TCI can easily tie to each and every SDG, and vice versa.

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KEY DOCUMENTS GRAND TURK SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLANNING INITIATIVE, PHASE II 2002 (estimate)

The goal of the Grand Turk Sustainable Development Planning Initiative, Phase II (SDPI), is to create a balanced plan from all values and points of view – economic, social, and ecological – that fosters a sustainable future for Grand Turk. Phase II speciﬁcally focuses on the “regulatory and policy environment” aspects of this plan (Grand Turk SDPI, 12). The report encompasses “preliminary assessments, recommendations, draft ordinances, and land use documents”.

The Grand Turk SDPI is a foundational document for the 2020 NPSDP team. It is the grounding for the consultant team to build upon for the future of Grand Turk. Similar to the direction of the NPSDP, land use designation is the basis of the Grand Turk SPDI.

SITE INVENTORY + ANALYSIS REPORT For additional documents reviewed by the consultant team, refer to Inventory + Analysis Appendix 1.0 (A1.0).

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The goals of the Grand Turk SDPI are as follows: 1. Promote and leverage the value of the existing cultural, economic, and natural resources of Grand Turk 2. Prepare affirmative steps for improving the quality of life on Grand Turk 3. Establish the initial framework for future SDPI planning for TCI 4. Increase investment opportunities on Grand Turk 5. Increase Grand Turk’s desirability as a tourist destination 6. Focus resources on the primary issues of Grand Turk 7. Create a framework for greater Belonger participation in the economy 8. Provide positive actions to fulﬁll TCI’s commitment under the environmental charter

The plan sees redevelopment as the key to the revitalization of Grand Turk.

A section of the Introduction to the Grand Turk SDPI is dedicated to the revitalization of Grand Turk. This section calls out speciﬁc areas of interest – culturally, economically, and ecologically; these are labeled as Special Public interest districts (SPI) and are within Cockburn Town, Overback, and Back Salina. Anchor Points, or areas of nodal interest, are as follows: Court House Plaza, Old Police Station, Canal Plaza Government Office Expansion, and Conference Center near TCInvest offices. These Anchor Points are featured revitalization projects and/ or adaptive reuse opportunities with great public beneﬁt potential.

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SUPPLEMENTAL DOCUMENTS TURKS AND CAICOS PROVIDENCIALES NATIONAL PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN DRAFT 1986

While the 2020 Turks and Caicos Islands NPSDP is being developed, the team also reviewed the last registered NPDP developed for the country - dated 1987. However, as noted in the Summary of Information Gaps, the consultants only received a draft copy from November 1986 and the Providenciales Physical Development Plan from May 1987. The consultants also received zoning plans that may have been created in tandem with the 1987 NPDP for the islands of Grand Turk, North Caicos, Providenciales, and South Caicos (the exact provenience of these plans has not been veriﬁed). The team is unclear if there were previous NPDP plans prior to the 1987 plan but ﬁnd it unlikely.

The plan highlights the following problematic socioeconomic issues: 1. Scattered nature of islands 2. Small population 3. Attitude of local population 4. Largely unskilled labor force 5. Isolated location 6. Weak inter-island communication 7. High cost of living compared to incomes 8. Incomplete infrastructural facilities 9. Difficult to obtain credit for industrial development and housing 10. Bureaucratic system 11. Over-dependence on the British Government 12. Limited exports

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The ultimate goal of the 1987 NPDP was to grow economically for all TCIslanders, while minimizing the negative effects of such development on “the fragile ecosystem.” There were “sectoral plans” established within the NPDP focusing on both the economic and infrastructural sectors. The economic sectors included

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The plan called for increase the tourism numbers, increase tourism-related jobs, and to promote local involvement in the industry.

There was a decline in the lobster industry (more so than ﬁshing), however, the government planned to focus on preservation methods of the ﬁshing industry. The phrase ‘exploit efficiently’ was used, including expansion as a goal. There were also mentions of conservation and preservation policies for reefs, mangroves, and other semi-tidal areas.

agriculture, ﬁshing, industry and construction, tourism, mining and offshore ﬁnance. Infrastructurally, the plan covered disaster preparedness, public health, education, housing, transportation, water supply and sewage, electricity, post and communication, judiciary and police, and social welfare. Each sector plan included both objectives and policies.

The 1987 NPDP focused heavily on the economic side of planning. Prior to its closure 1964, the salt industry was the main economic activity for the Turks and Caicos Islands. The country then depended on small-scale fishing, specifically conch and lobster, through 1989. The NPDP did see tourism as a potential viable industry to invest in per 1989; it is pressed tourism and offshore finance as potential industries to grow within the country.

TCI planned to implement polices to become selfsufficient for selected crops and livestock.

The 1987 National Physical Development Plan prepared a land use plan and considered seven aspects: (1) identification of tourism and other related projects, (2) identification of facilities taking into consideration the estimated population, (3) allocation of land for various uses, (4) determination of future urban form and structure, (5) road network, (6) minimize negative impacts on indigenous communities, and (7) minimize damage to fragile ecosystem. It is important to note this plan did not indicate the tier or importance of each aspect, only that they were all included in the planning process. The 1987 NPDP was “prepared on the concept of clusters”. It used a nodal-inventory approach to project planned, future development. The plan approached future development based on where current and planned development was located, overlaid with location of “industries and facilities” in order to eliminate “noncompatible” uses. While the previous NPDP is presently extremely outdated, it placed firm building blocks that the Turks and Caicos Islands have grown with, around, and that are still in use today, after three decades.

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Due to the age of the 1987 NPDP, the team understands the situation in 1987 is very different from that of 2020 – over 20 years past its livelihood. Unless otherwise stated, comprehensive plans have a ten (10) year lifespan. The 1987 NPDP was slated “1987-1997”. With that said, there are certain takeaways the consultant team understood from the plan:

Many aspects or sectors simply refer to improvement; these include land, air and sea infrastructure, post and communication, electricity, social welfare, judiciary and police, water supply and sewage.

The plan addresses housing shortage and acknowledges that manpower is the nation’s most valuable resource. The plan calls for both an increase to the housing stock and improvements via the government on the construction of structurally sound homes.

There was a need for both technical and vocational training institutions, as well as improving the skillset of local teachers.

The offshore ﬁnance industry should grow effectively via sustainable developments in order to create jobs and generate revenue for the government.

There were objectives related to establishing the salt industry as a tourist attraction on a small-scale.

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CONCLUSION

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The consultant team did a comprehensive review of many of the documents, reports, and studies that went into the foundational grounding for the National Physical Sustainable Development Plan 2020 for the Turks and Caicos Islands. Key documents played an important role in helping the consultants, understand the regulations and plans that already exist within the TCI. The team does not want to replicate any documents or plans that have already been established, but rather create a usable plan to connect physical locations with goals, objectives, strategies, and policies that are obtainable and only strengthen the future of the Turks and Caicos Islands for generations to come.

Credit: Agile LeVin Visit Turks and Caicos Islands (www.visittci.com)

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GRAND TURK REGENERATION: A MASTER PLAN FOR THE ISLAND OF GRAND TURK 2016

The Grand Turk Regeneration Master Plan (GTRMP), published in May 2016, focuses on the preservation and continued development of the island of Grand Turk. The shared vision encompasses creating a “unique identity,” stemming from the natural beauty, culture, and community. Most notably, the vision for Grand Turk acknowledges that much has been done to create the best experience for visitors, but little has been done within Cockburn Town and Grand Turk for residents and TCIslanders (residents refers to those non-native to the Islands, but those who have achieved a higher immigration status). The master plan seeks to develop sensitively; the purpose is not to be antidevelopment for visitors or residents alike, but to pay close attention to bettering the quality of the island for all.

Design Guidelines were established through the GTRMP and identify three (3) location types: (1) adjacent to heritage sites, (2) adjacent to non-heritage sites, and (3) adjacent to undeveloped or underdeveloped sites. They include aspects ranging from access, public realm use, and setbacks/frontages to other visual characteristics that can further deﬁne the nature of the island. The plan logically breaks down investment and cultural preservation into three timelines: near-term, mid-term, and long-term. It also breaks down some guidelines for the cultural heritage properties, focusing on preservation, rehabilitation, restoration, stabilization, and documentation.

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Lastly, the GTRMP covers recommendations via delineated categories (priority projects, real property actions, cultural heritage actions, and ecological actions) and an implementation strategy. The approach to implementation recommendations include raising awareness of the plan, enhancing regulatory tools, providing guidance to developers, institutional coordination mechanisms, strengthening institutional capacities, and changing the balance of penalties and incentives.

The GTRMP follows a methodology similar to that of the proposed 2020 NPSDP – involving governmental entities, local stakeholders, and the general public while led by a group of outside, unbiased consultants. The Master Plan includes several frameworks: district, ecological, circulation, cultural, utilities, and an overall composite framework plan. The District Framework focuses on the five districts that make up Grand Turk: Historic Town Centre, Downtown, South Island, North Creek & Murroya Hill, as well as on Industrial Park. The Ecological Framework focuses on the preservation of a healthy, natural environment to be used by humans and wildlife. It uses several controlled variables to perpetuate improvements: preservation, Crown ownership, private ownership, and dive sites. The Circulation Framework identifies roads, paths, transit, and boats as the components that make for a diverse transportation experience. The Utilities Framework concentrates on power, water, drainage, and landfill sites and networks. The Cultural Heritage Framework prioritizes historic sites, civic sites, and exclusive (high cultural value) sites.

The Grand Turk Regeneration Master Plan is a significant document that should be used to its fullest potential. The Adkins team (who authored the report) and local governmental officials spent time and effort to really delve into an actionable plan and implementation strategy that has vitality still to this day. This type of plan would be ideal to have for each island, but it is a great starting point for the island of Grand Turk. Another important aspect of the Grand Turk Regeneration Master Plan is the care for the visual qualities of the island. It covered facets such as architectural character and design guidelines. These are important aspects, as, together, they create cohesive placemaking destinations to be easily identified and defined. For the 2020 NPSDP, the team plans to capitalize on ‘visual resources,’ which encompasses that of the visual qualities discussed in the GTRMP.

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TURKS AND CAICOS CROWN LAND POLICY AND ORDINANCE 2011, 2009

The Turks and Caicos Development Manual establishes a “safe and wholesome environment” for TCI. It is included within the Turks and Caicos Planning and Building Regulations. The Development Manual outlines what can and cannot happen development-wise in TCI. It sets regulations and procedures for the appropriate development process accepted by the TCI government and Planning Department. The 2014 revision speciﬁcally adds an additional focus on environmental protection, through increased environmental impact assessments (EIAs) and additional restrictions for development in ecologically sensitive areas.

The Turks and Caicos Crown Land Policy was established in 2011 under the Lands Division to set up measurable improvements to “transparency, accountability, and responsibility” for the management of Crown lands. The policy speaks to a need for transparency in the administration of Crown land, measurable protections, and redeﬁned priorities and access. The main duties of the Crown Land Unit are the monitoring and reviewing existing long lease agreements, conditional purchase leases, allocation, sale, and lease, recovery of Crown land, and the enforcement of legislation relating to Crown land. The Crown Land Policy revision does address the protection of environmentally sensitive areas more so than previous Crown land documents. The policy deﬁnes four environmentally sensitive areas: national parks, nature reserves, sanctuaries, and sites of historic interest. These areas should be treated with the utmost respect and preservation for the good of all TCIslanders.

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The development manual covers a range of facets of development approval, as seen below. • Residential and non-residential developments • Subdivision standards • Land conservation policies • Site development rules and regulations • Development application procedures • Signage standards and requirements • EIA standards • Construction and design standards for beach protection works, boat docks, mooring facilities, retaining walls, dredging, and land reclamation • Standards for new building systems • Low density development standards

The 1987 National Physical Development Plan (NPDP) is mentioned in the TCI Development Manual; the manual deﬁnes the NPDP as a means to “provide the framework for a national pattern for the spatial distribution of economic activities.” Most importantly, the manual states that all development proposals should conform with established settlement or island plans. Without such a plan in place, the NPDP standards and guidelines should be followed instead. The NPDP seeks to work in tandem with the established guidelines, regulations, and policies within the TCI Development Manual.

The policy defines specific priorities for the use of Crown land; it should be used for government purposes, social and emergency housing, recreational use, residential uses, and responsible commercial and infill development. All uses should be identified and/or verified by the newly established (2012) Crown Land Unit. The Turks and Caicos government has revisited the eligibility for access to Crown land. The large reduction in Crown land, due to a liberal use policy, has produced stricter criteria for current development. As this restructuring happened a few years ago, this update to the Crown land policy is the new normal: the preservation of land and the continued commitment to reestablishing much of what was lost. The Crown Land Division would like to ‘re-gather’ Crown land that has been leased or granted to private individuals or groups. The consultant team has gathered that the release of Crown land to nonCrown entities or individuals stems from a capital-raising campaign, that of which was both legal and illegal in various situations. There is an on-going investigation and trial based on the decisions of a few (past) key individuals in positions of power.

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The consultant team is able to work with the Crown Land Division in comparing the change in inventory within the last decade. This is important to create a base of what still exists, as the consultant team has gathered from meetings, consultations, and comparing maps that there has been an extreme loss in Crown land in more recent times. The policy and ordinance also imply the need for a more formalized management plan of the future of Crown land. The 1987 NPDP focuses on the longevity of the Turks and Caicos Islands and its people; the Crown land policy and ordinance enact measures and regulations to support this goal as well.

The 2011 Crown Land Ordinance deﬁnes “the principles of Crown land management”. These principles focus on “Crown land being for TCIslanders, conserved over sold, used for the good of the general public, and sustained over a long period of time”. See a full list of principles in Appendix X. The ordinance also mentions there should be a push to recover Crown land ‘lost’ before April 2012; this is in reference to the liberal policy taken towards the sale of Crown land mentioned in the TCI Crown Land Policy. TCIG believes that too much land was lost, and, in order to preserve and retain enough land for future generations of TCIslanders, recovering land previously privatized is a must. While the consultant team has not received a map of key areas, we have examined via mapping techniques a comparison of Crown Land 2010 vs Crown Land 2020 (the most recent data shared).

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The Crown Land Policy and Ordinance provide important data to trace the previous decade of development, which is very helpful for the elaboration of the 2020 NPSDP,

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RESILIENT NATIONAL ENERGY TRANSITION STRATEGY (R-NETS) EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 2018

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The Turks and Caicos Islands Government partnered with FortisTCI and the Rocky Mountain Institute to establish the Resilient National Energy Transition Strategy (R-NETS) and focus on a sustainable future for TCIslanders. The R-NETS developed a phased approach in collaboration with both the partners spearheading the initiative and local stakeholders and residents. First, low-cost, reliable, and sustainable energy resources were identified and vetted. This process included a full exploration into alternatives and the opportunity cost associated with each alternative, as well as an understanding of where TCI is currently in terms of energy production and, more specifically, renewable energy production/options. Second, the team looked more into the financial and technical specifications in order to determine the best alternatives for TCI. Lastly, a conclusive report and implementation plan were established. Together, these three phases created a comprehensive foundation for the future of renewable and sustainable energy use throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The (R-NETS) is important because it builds upon the Integrated Resources Plans (IRP) from previous years. Currently, the Clinton Foundation, specifically the Clinton Climate Initiative, FortisTCI, and the Rocky Mountain Institute are finalizing an energy strategy for the Turks and Caicos Islands. The partners, led by the Clinton Climate Initiative, are working on the plan that solidifies the interest of all involved, including the TCI Government, towards a future with renewable energy. This is slated to finish by July 2020; however, COVID19 could hinder the completion date.

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TURKS AND CAICOS CLIMATE CHANGE POLICY 2018

The Turks and Caicos Climate Change Policy was adopted by the TCI Cabinet in 2011. The consultant team reviewed the Draft Climate Change Policy from April 2011. The overarching goal of the Climate Change policy for the TCI is to establish an adaption plan and policy to support such plan.

Island nations are some of the most vulnerable to climate change. According to the Caribbean Tourism Organization, its members have a 3% share of global tourism, yet only 1% of the global population (Climate Change, DME). The TCI Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies states that adaptation strategies are a necessity for the livelihood of the archipelago, especially as the threat of increasingly stronger hurricanes and tropical storms affect the Turks and Caicos Islands. As mentioned by previous TCI Governor, John Freeman: “Though the Turks and Caicos Islands is not a major contributor to the practices that signiﬁcantly impact climate change, we have experienced and will remain vulnerable to its effects if we do not take aggressive action and a ﬁrm stance on the global political stage and challenge the international community to partner with us in implementing strategies to mitigates its effects”. TCI will become more vulnerable as the climate continues to change at a more rapid pace; this is especially true if the country continues to focus on certain industries that will be heavily disrupted by such changes.

The team reviewed other documents relating to the future of the TCI and climate change, as listed above. Per research within the Caribbean Development Bank, the team understands the CDB has further plans to develop policy for the greater Caribbean.

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In tandem with the Climate Change Policy, the TCI Climate Change Green Paper (February 2011) was published to “facilitate ongoing consultations with stakeholders in the public and private sectors and civil society on the implications of climate change for the Turks and Caicos Islands,” (TCI Climate Change Green Paper, 3). The paper hopes to continue the conversation among TCIslanders to develop adaptable solutions to the issues within a rapidly changing climate. It notes several observed trends and projections within the Caribbean region: rising temperatures, increase in extreme climatic events, increased sea surface temperature (SST), sea level rise, and decreasing precipitation. In conclusion, the research points to a direct impact from climate change on the Turks and Caicos Islands (and the globe) that needs to continually be addressed.

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SUPPLEMENTAL DOCUMENTS PROVIDENCIALES DEVELOPMENT PLAN 1987

The Providenciales Development Plan was developed as a part of the 1987 National Physical Development Plan; the consultant team received a copy of the Draft Providenciales Development Plan, dated May 1987. The plan proposes to develop Providenciales signiﬁcantly, while calling for knowledgeable use of resources and the enhancement of the natural environment. There are six concepts highlighted in the Providenciales Development Plan: 1. Conservation of the natural environment 2. Allocation of land based on population and economic projections 3. Cluster development typology rather than linear form 4. Capitalize on existing settlements and add foundational infrastructure (community facilities and services) to each 5. Develop sea and air connections throughout islands 6. Understand the cost of development – economically and environmentally

Although the consultant team received a development plan for Providenciales, no other island plans were received. The plan for Providenciales seems to align with goals and objectives the consultant team has started to develop for the 2020 NPSDP. Interestingly enough, the existing land use pattern described in the 1987 Providenciales Development Plan seems to still be today’s current scenario; this includes the development concentration between northern beaches, a large expanse of undeveloped Crown land on the western side of the island, small pockets of industrial land uses, and scattered villa development.

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The methodology used can be implied from the “Preparation of Land Use Plans”. There were five aspects examined: (1) identification of tourism and other related projects, (2) identification of facilities taking into consideration the estimated population, (3) allocation of land for various uses, (4) determination of future urban form and structure, and (5) road network. This information was expounded upon by the consultant team to provide an updated, yet understandable, methodology for suitability for the update to the 2020 NPSDP.

The goal outlined in this plan states: “The government’s ultimate goal is to achieve a signiﬁcant rate of economic growth and physical development in which all the residents will participate and beneﬁt from, whilst at the same time minimizing the negative social impact and damage to the fragile ecosystem of the island,” (Providenciales Development Plan).

In addition, the Providenciales Development Plan highlights five (5) national parks on Providenciales, which are all still established today. The plan also provides three (3) typologies for residential uses: low, medium, and high density. Low density is defined as a maximum of three dwelling units per acre (15 people per acre), while medium and high density are three to six (15 to 30 people per acre) and five to ten (25 to 50 people per acre) dwelling units per acre, respectively.

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ECONOMIC

LABOUR FORCE SURVEY REPORT 2017 (DEPARTMENT OF STATISTICS, 2018) The Labour Force Survey Report 2017 provides a series of statistics based upon the results of the 2017 Labour Force Survey, building a national-level picture of the size and characteristics of TCI’s population, labour force, employment in establishments and private households, and labour relations. After updating several key population statistics with Department of Statistics estimates using the 2012 Census as a base, the report looks at benchmark indicators such as labour force participation rate and unemployment rate before further breaking down the labour force by characteristics such as age, sex, level of education, island, and industry/occupation group.

As pertains to economic analysis, the supporting data presented in this report is based primarily on several key existing demographic, labor force, skills, and household reports obtained with the help of the consultant team and the Turks and Caicos Islands Government. The primary existing items used for economic analysis are listed below.

THE DEVELOPMENT OF POPULATION PROJECTIONS FOR THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS 2012–2027 (ECONOMIC COMMISSION FOR LATIN AMERICA AND THE CARIBBEAN)

The report was crucial for the consultant team in providing sectoral breakdowns, used to piece together growth and contraction trends of key industries over time, identify the current strength of sectors targeted as priorities for future development, and compare the macroeconomic makeup of TCI to other relevant nations.

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These projections, a joint effort completed by the Statistics and Social Development Unit of ECLAC in conjunction with the Statistics Department of the Turks and Caicos Islands Government, lay out a picture of continuous national-level population growth for TCI through 2027. The population growth is expected to be fueled predominantly by continued immigration to the islands, but natural change (births less deaths) is also expected to contribute positively. The demographic structure of TCI is projected to continue shifting toward a greater proportion of non-TCIslander, both through immigration and natural growth of the non-TCIslander population. Additionally, the nation-wide population is expected to age as both the non-TCIslander and TCIslander cohorts experience population aging; however, the non-TCIslander population is expected to age faster as the large inﬂux of working-age immigrants reach old age. From a macroeconomic strategy perspective, these population projections can be used to plan for future government resource allocation and housing demand models. Importantly, the projections raise key planning objectives for housing and employment—how TCI can best plan for sufficient housing, office space, and jobs for the growing population.

2012 CENSUS HOUSEHOLD TABLES The 2012 Census Household Tables provided the most recent available breakdown of the Turks and Caicos Islands’ housing supply along key characteristics including: location (by island), average household size over time, type of ownership, type of dwelling, and others. The data has proven crucial the consultant team in understanding any divergences in housing patterns or problems amongst the various islands, projecting overall housing demand, and identifying a potential affordable housing crunch that could arrive in the near future (as already evidenced by the squatting statistics).

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SUPPLEMENTAL DOCUMENTS NATIONAL SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY (2007)

The National Skills Audit focused primarily upon determining the skills needed in the TCI labour market and whether those needs were being met by the labour force. In doing so, it found a major skills gap which was expected to take three to ten years to ﬁll—a challenge complicated by the fact that the majority of the local population has only completed secondary education. Most jobs will require Vocational and/or College education, and many young TCI Graduates are preparing to emigrate elsewhere.

The National Socio-economic Development Strategy (NSEDS) accurately identiﬁes many of the preeminent development priorities facing the Turks and Caicos Islands and proposes a series of actions to address those priorities. The macroeconomics portion of the ongoing 2020 NPSDP involves building upon the NSEDS proposals, particularly in the “Economy,” “People and Workforce,” “Education and Skills,” “Business and Enterprise,” and “ICT and Infrastructure” spheres, and adding recommendations on the physical planning / land use ramiﬁcations of the socio-economic development strategy.

NATIONAL SKILLS AUDIT (MINISTRY OF BORDER CONTROL & EMPLOYMENT, 2017)

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Other tangential, but important, conclusions include: 1) employment is most heavily concentrated in the accommodation and food service sector; 2) the next-largest sector is construction, where foreign nationals largely outnumber locals; and 3) the number of foreign workers is projected to rise.

The skills audit was crucial for the consultant team in conﬁrming the current dominant industry sectors, as well as in identifying currently projected growth for several targeted industry sectors with potential for governmentplanned development.

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