Turks and Caicos Islands Draft National Physical Sustainable Development Plan (Compressed)

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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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.

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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

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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 team’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.

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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 – the jewel of the Turks and Caicos.

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CONSULTANT TEAM

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A NEW PLAN ORIGINAL SCOPE OF SERVICES (JULY 2017)

Review and Assimilate Existing Data

#1 DRAFT REPORT

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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

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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:

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• 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.

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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.

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• 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

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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

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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

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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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1.0- INTRODUCTION

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:

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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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OTHER CONSIDERATIONS

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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.

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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

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PROPOSAL [PRE PERMIT APPLICATION]

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PERMIT / APPROVAL PROCESS

PROJECT REALIZATION

Invest TCI

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CONCLUSION

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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 – the TCI governmental entities, local stakeholders and investors, and TCIslanders.

SOCIAL

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

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GEOGRAPHICAL

THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS GEOGRAPHIC LOCATION

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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.

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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

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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

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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

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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 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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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.

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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

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VISION 2040 PHYSICAL PLANNING ORDINANCE

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NATIONAL PARKS ORDINANCE

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BUILDING BLOCKS

ENVIRONMENTAL CHARTER

UN SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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)

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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

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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

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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.

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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.

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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:

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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.

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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.

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

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

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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

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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.

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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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TURKS AND CAICOS DEVELOPMENT MANUAL APRIL 2014

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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

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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.

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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.

FT

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).

D

R A

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

R A

FT

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.

D

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

FT

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.

D

R A

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

FT

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.

R A

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.

D

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.

FT

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.

D

R A

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.

FT

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

R A

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.

D

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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D Credit: “Agile LeVin - Visit Turks and Caicos Islands (www.visittci.com)”

FT

3.0

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R A

VISION + PRINCIPLES

3.0- VISION + PRINCIPLES

VISION MANY CAYS, ONE TURKS AND CAICOS

UNIQUE ISLAND IDENTITIES

FT

The Turks and Caicos Islands archipelago is made up of many islands and cays - more than 40! While some are inhabited, all the cays make up the geography and culture of the Turks and Caicos Islands. The individual islands offer characteristics that differentiate each location from another, while also coming together to form the celebrated history and future of the small, but mighty island territory. The beauty of the Turks and Caicos Islands is the many parts that make it whole.

R A

Each island within the Turks and Caicos archipelago has a different character defined by its history, natural resources, culture and development aesthetic. The vision is to build on this existing character and pay homage to each island’s unique features. These are further defined in 3.2 Island Themes.

VISION

D

The Turks and Caicos Islands will prosper environmentally and economically in an equitable manner from an established, thoughtful approach towards physical land planning.

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3.0- VISION + PRINCIPLES

Graphic: The inhabitated islands form large ‘puzzle pieces’ of the archipelago, while the numerous other islands and cays play an important role for TCI as well.

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PRINCIPLES

ONE TCIG - ONE TCI GOVERNMENT

Creating a framework for government agencies collaboration to ensure current needs are met and visions are planned for accordingly.

R A

2

Celebrate the history of the Turks and Caicos Islands while erecting a foundation for the future.

FT

1

CELEBRATE TCI’S CULTURAL IDENTITY

RESILIENCE + MULTI-FUNCTIONALITY

D

3

An ever-changing environment means the NPSDP needs adaptability and multi-functionality: the plan must be able to adapt to natural and economic disasters. It must also serve multiple functions via their designated land use to protect against sprawl and maintain green-fields, while others must be protected to serve one purpose.

4

ISLAND LINKAGE

The islands must be linked via physical, technological, and cultural connections.

NATURE AS BEAUTY

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The Turks and Caicos Islands represent the essence of ‘Nature as Beauty.’ The future must strike a balance between protecting the natural beauty and jewels of the archipelago and making them accessible to TCIslanders and visitors.

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ISLAND LINKAGE

KEY THEMES

R A

CELEBRATING TCI’S CULTURAL IDENTITY

FT

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RESILIENCE MULTI-FUNCTIONALITY

NATURE AS BEAUTY

Graphic: These principles ring true throughout all goals, strategies and recommendations in the National Physical Sustainable Development Plan.

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KEY UNDERSTANDINGS

1

that 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 serve 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.

FT

After gathering existing information, studying the land, discussions and interviews with residents and members of TCIG, and surveying the public, the proposed structure of the progress National Physical Sustainable Development Plan (NPSDP) has started to take form. Our team proposes a vision of the future of Turks and Caicos Islands in the next ten (10) years governed by several core recommendations.

FOCUS DEVELOPMENT ON DEVELOPED (‘URBANIZED’) LAND AND MAINTAIN THE INTEGRITY OF NATIONAL PARKS

With the recent boom of development and the subsequent attempts to set preservation standards and protected areas, the Turks and Caicos Islands found themselves at the center of a conflict between preservation and development of the land. As previously mentioned in the project vision, goals, and strategies sections, the current plan seeks to strike a balance between these two. The protected areas are preserved because they are ecologically important to the whole of the environment.

Therefore, no revenue-generating development should be permitted within their boundaries. Per the National Parks Ordinance, ‘development’ allowed within national parks, reserves, marine reserves, and areas of historic interest are only those that are open to all members of the public for strictly recreational use. Development not deemed for recreational or research purposes can take advantage of existing vacant lots within the populated areas and should not be allowed.

R A

Globally, it is accepted that preservation of the natural environment needs to take precedence over sprawling human development for the continued growth of human settlements. While the character of the Turks and Caicos Islands should be preserved – island-scale, village-like, low density development – the preservation of the untouched, natural environment should be maintained. There is sufficient land available within existing built developments (settlements) for infill and adaptive use. Vacant parcels can be repurposed. Parcels with existing structures can be converted from one use to another, for example industrial to mixed-use, commercial to institutional, etc.

D

The National Parks Ordinance sets forth the permitting powers for any form of development within parks, nature reserves, sanctuaries and areas of historical interest and for the conservation of the natural environment and ecology of the islands. In essence, the Ordinance requires

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ENSURE BETTER ISLAND CONNECTIVITY

islands rather than mainly Providenciales.

Infrastructure and transportation are vital areas of focus for the Turks and Caicos Islands within the next decade.

Infrastructure, especially large-scale, connection corridors, are particularly lacking within TCI. Although the airports are doing increasingly well, each island currently only has one option for cross-island connection, if any. As the population continues to increase, the lack of alternative routes becomes more apparent via traffic congestion. There are currently no plans proposed to address this issue, but the NPSDP proposes a few options.

The NPSDP proposes an enhanced ferry service, which will include: • Reduced travel times and increased frequency of transport • Improved watercraft • High speeds • Enclosed and comfortable for guests • Variety of ferry types including high speed, shallow draft ferries through the interior Caicos Bank (potentially via “hoverboats” or similar) and seaworthy vessels to safely and comfortably transport across most open sea conditions to Grand Turk, Salt Cay and South Caicos.

• Direct routes to more island locations (Middle Caicos, Central Providenciales, West Caicos) • Improved landings (i.e. Middle Caicos, North Caicos, Salt Cay, South Caicos) • Conditioned and enclosed waiting areas.

• Safe and shaded boarding areas • Baggage and small material handling • Maintenance system and redundant water craft to maintain set schedules

FT

2

R A

More specifically, investment in infrastructure is critical, and even more critical is to prioritize the investments needed.

Connecting the islands by alternative means such as efficient ferry systems should be top on the list.

The Turks and Caicos Islands are geographically very well positioned to capitalize on the movement of goods and people through a comprehensive ferry system. The location leads itself to a ferry network, rather than the traditional vehicular or automobile network, as the primary method of inter-island transportation. This affords additional opportunities to experience perhaps the best asset of the islands: the crystal clear, turquoise water. The archipelago has always functioned as one with the water; historically, pre-flight days, the islands industries of fishing, sisal, and salt all functioned with boats as the primary mode of transportation.

D

While there is an existing ferry system and network in place, it is often unreliable and not catered to creating a comfortable ride from one island to another. A successful ferry system must be reliable, comfortable, sufficiently frequent and safe to attract a continuous stream of residential and tourism users. More residents could rely on the ferry for work or recreational purposes, and tourists could spread their economic contribution through the

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Other island connectivity ideas also exist. Currently, the Turks and Caicos Government is exploring a proposal to connect the Caicos Bank islands through a causeway or “ultimate expressway” referred to as the TCI National Spine Road (or Spine Link). Phase One, estimated at approximately $200 million, would provide an 11-mile connection from Providenciales to North Caicos. Phase Two would connect South and Middle Caicos through East Caicos; a feasibly study has not been completed to date.

The entire route – Providenciales to South Caicos – would span approximately 60 miles. A Request for Proposals was issued in 2019, and the government is currently in the reviewing process.

sparsely populated, environmentally sensitive islands, such as Middle and East Caicos, for the protection for overdevelopment. Finally, the current route depicted from the RFP will negatively impact an internationally protected site: North, Middle, and East Caicos Nature Reserve.

This protected area was allotted from The Convention on Wetlands in Ramsar, Iran in 1971 by countries across the globe in an effort to protect critical wetland habitats.

Economically, a cost benefit analysis is needed to understand the direct impacts of the Spine Link Connection on each island individually. Would the economic effects be enough to offset the environmental detriments and required infrastructural upgrades to North, Middle, East, and South Caicos?

FT

3

VEHICULAR ISLAND CONNECTION

The consultant team believes there could be validity to the Spine Link Connection farther into the future. The current state of infrastructure – environmental, economic, and civic – is not yet equipped to handle the effects – positive and negative – that the Spine Link Connection will bring immediately upon opening. It is cruicial that the route of the Spine Link Connection should be examined in greater detail as to bring economic resilience without hindering environmental resilience. Additional studies must be conducted on the Spine Link Connection to strive for a balance between location, travel, speed, construction cost, settlement disturbance, and preservation of the sensitive and natural resources. Consideration must also be given so that boat traffic, whether private or commercial/ferry boats, are not restricted from travel. For the immediate future however, all islands, specifically the islands of the Caicos Bank, would benefit greatly from a successful ferry operation that would streamline the movement of people, goods, and services.

D

R A

Depending on the person interviewed and where they live, TCI residents feel differently about the Spine Link proposal.

The project would connect the islands and vastly improve the flow of goods and services. With tourism being the largest industry throughout the archipelago, further access to the islands could be beneficial. However, the project would need to be in tandem with development catalysts as to not allow an explosion of activity, development and tourism without proper infrastructure. There also would need to be very strict development protocols on the more

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With an estimated demand for approximately 8,600 – 13,300 new primary households during within the next two decades, housing will be by far the largest development sector over the next several years, in terms of land utilization. Currently a lack of housing options and affordable housing options specifically are experienced on all islands. Moreover, Providenciales and Grand Turk experience issues with informal settlements that pose a threat to human safety and contribute to environmental degradation.

5

DIVERSIFICATION OF ECONOMY Apart from the tourism, offshore financial services, and real estate industries, the Turks and Caicos Islands do not have many more, if any, competitive industries. All industries previously mentioned have large caveats of potential instability. Tourism can fluctuate with global pandemics and the instability of the dollar ($) and pound (£). Offshore financial markets are currently subject to more regulation and scrutiny. Real estate as an industry will be expanded upon later in this summary. (you mean in the Private Ownership part? I would maybe add a one-line here about the Real Estate). In short, additional industries can add another layer of stability and sustainability to the Turks and Caicos Islands economy. There are several other potential industries that would make the Turks and Caicos Islands a more competitive option for new technology industry needs. The preliminary analysis and benchmark assessment of targeted growth industries and job creation brings a surface an understanding of key infrastructure support that will be needed to sustain select industry segments.

FT

4

HOUSING

D

R A

As a result and considering the desire to preserve land and open space throughout TCI, there should be a concentrated effort to focus more on intensified (multifamily) development. The demographic forecasts indicate planning for multifamily product will be met with an aging population and a marginally diminishing family base. While single family housing will still be prominent, higher density housing in particular is encouraged in Providenciales and can serve as the anchor for mixed use development. This same policy may apply to other islands such as Grand Turk and North Caicos, which should only help to alleviate the heavy concentration of housing in Providenciales. Moreover, there should also be a focus on increasing homeownership to provide residents a greater vested interest in their community. Lastly, there is a need to expand attainable/affordable housing which can be driven by policy initiatives, such as deconcentrating of poverty and inclusionary zoning.

This plan lays out space for projected future housing, with a phased approach for housing needs within the life of the plan (~10 years).

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The Turks and Caicos Islands delineate land through two typologies: private land and Crown land. Private land, like most other territories and countries, refers to land owned by a person or group of people other than the government.

In TCI specifically, private land could be owned by a local TCIslander or a foreigner with land ownership rights. Crown land is owned by the ‘Crown,” or the TCI government and managed by the Division of Crown Lands, housed under the Attorney General.

The Division of Crown Lands and other governmental entities have started to follow a more careful approach to the leasing and granting of Crown land parcels; in the Vision for Sustainable Land Use from the TCI National Socio-Economic Development Framework, Draft National Development Vision, 2007, it was noted that the government has adopted a commitment to maintain the land they currently managed.

FT

6

PRESERVATION OF CROWN LAND

D

R A

The purpose of Crown land is to provide for the current and future generations of TCIslanders through both development and preservation methods. Unfortunately, there has been a severe diminishment of Crown land within the last decade, due to corruption and capital gain. It is imperative now to protect the remaining parcels for the future of the Turks and Caicos Islands. As stated by the previous Governor D. R. Todd, Crown land is the “principal heritage asset of the people of the Turks and Caicos”.

The 2011 Crown Land Policy builds upon an evaluation completed in 2010 analyzing the status of the remaining parcels. It was found that much of the land has been transferred to private owners, (as of 2008, the Crown was the largest landowner in TCI). Some of the land should be used to provide services for the current residents, while other parcels should be preserved and protected for the future generations to come.

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Crown land needs to be preserved first and foremost.

There is an excess of private, undeveloped land on North Caicos, Middle Caicos, South Caicos, and Grand Turk. A portion of this aforementioned private land has had previous development parcels, but many proposals, developments, and activity have stalled, leaving a majority of parcels untouched and vacant in a physical sense, while others are dilapidated and perhaps negatively affecting the overall beauty of the islands as a whole. There are plenty of parcels on North Caicos, Middle Caicos, South Caicos, and Grand Turk to continue to promote development on private land rather than using the small percentage of usable Crown land remaining. The preservation of Crown land is more important for the future of the Turks and Caicos Islands than short-term economic growth.

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PROVIDENCIALES

FT

“The color turquoise was chosen to represent the islands of Providenciales, Pine Cay and West Caicos. The color is taken from the beautiful turquoise waters that surround these islands on which our famous Caicos fishing sloops sail. These turquoise waters also contribute to our newest industry: Tourism.”

TURQUOISE WATERS + TOURISM

Pristine and Comfortable The character of Providenciales is contemporary clean lines and a curated landscape. Restaurants, resorts and tourism development should appeal and cater to high income couples and families.

Credit: “Agile LeVin - Visit Turks and Caicos

D

R A

Design should be focused on comfort and ease of accessibility while providing a wide variaty of amenities.

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

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Islands (www.visittci.com)”

FT

3 .1 - V I S I O N + P R I N C I P L E S | C O N C E P T U A L T H E M E S

TURQUOISE

R A

REPRESENTS THE WATERS SURROUNDING THE ISLANDS

D

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

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

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NORTH CAICOS

FT

“The color green was chosen to represent North Caicos and Parrot Cay. The color is taken from the fruit trees and other types of trees that flourish in the most fertile of all the islands. North Caicos is also home of Wade’s Green Plantation, the most successful of Caicos Islands cotton plantations.”

FRUIT TREES + FERTILE ISLANDS

Agriculturally Driven As a landscape of low stone walls and agricultural fields the identity of North Caicos is derived from farming and a slower pace. Any new development should remain small and have a “Bed and Breakfast” feel.

D

R A

Farm to table food can be implimented as a way to ensure agricultural practices remain active on the island, and promotes agri-tourism throughout the landscape. This quiet island has a simple bucolic aesthetic and new design should reflect that character.

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

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Credit: Adobe Stock

D

R A

FT

3 .1 - V I S I O N + P R I N C I P L E S | C O N C E P T U A L T H E M E S

GREEN

REPRESENTS THE FRUIT TREES AND FERTILE LANDSCAPE

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

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3.2- VISION + PRINCIPLES | ISLAND THEMES

MIDDLE CAICOS

THATCH-WORK + MYSTERY

FT

“The color tan was chosen to represent Middle Caicos. The color is taken from the raw material (thatch) that once covered the roofs of the houses. It is also used to make straw hats, baskets and brooms. Middle Caicos is known for the superior quality of native craftwork”

Nature Tourism + Natural Landscape As the jewel of the Turks and Caicos, the character of this island should reflect natural Carribean landscape and “off-the-grid” nature + cultural based design. Development should remain small and fit within the topography of the island so that nature is preserved and highlighted.

Credit: “Agile LeVin - Visit Turks and Caicos

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R A

Trails and pathways should be minimalistic in design to meet the needs of bikers and hikers while not creating highways to hidden jems such as caves and beaches.

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

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3.2- VISION + PRINCIPLES | ISLAND THEMES

BROWN

FT

REPRESENTS THE THATCHWORK AND NATURAL LANDSCAPE

D

R A

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

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

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

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3.2- VISION + PRINCIPLES | ISLAND THEMES

SOUTH CAICOS

FT

“The color orange was chosen to represent South and East Caicos. The color comes from the spiny lobster and fish and reflects the fishing industry in the Big South.”

SPINY LOBSTER + LOCAL FISHING

Quietly Colorful South Caicos is defined by quiet fishing villages. Colorful wooden boats and exposed stone walls become repeated characteristics.

D

R A

As these villages are reinvigorated, they should expand on the colorful detailing and fishing culture.

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

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3.2- VISION + PRINCIPLES | ISLAND THEMES

ORANGE

REPRESENTS THE SPINY LOBSTER AND FISHING INDUSTRY

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

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3.2- VISION + PRINCIPLES | ISLAND THEMES

GRAND TURK

TURKS HEAD CACTUS

FT

“The color red was chosen to represent the nation’s capital, Grand Turk. The color is taken from the red/pink fruit found on the national plant, the Turks Head Cactus. They were once found in abundance on Grand Turk before they were removed to accommodate the salt ponds.”

Adventurous Aesthetic As one of the most active islands, Grand Turk caters to diving, fishing and other adventurous activities. This island’s character has a rustic feel and is the historical center of the Turks and Caicos.

D

R A

New development should match the historic aesthetic while providing new opportunities for tourism and locals alike.

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

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RED

R A

FT

REPRESENTS THE RED/PINK FRUIT OF THE NATIONAL PLANT, THE TURKS HEAD CACTUS

D

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

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

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3.2- VISION + PRINCIPLES | ISLAND THEMES

SALT CAY

SALT INDUSTRY

FT

“The color white was chosen to represent Salt Cay. The color came from salt. The salt industry was largely responsible for populating the islands of Salt Cay, Grand Turk, and South Caicos.”

Colonial History “The Island Time Forgot” has a rich history. The stuccoed colonial architecture, cut limestone block, and salina walls create an identity that is unique from the other islands.

Credit: “Agile LeVin - Visit Turks and Caicos

D

R A

New design in this area should reflect the character and muted colors of the colonial architecture and pay homage to the detailing and history of the salt industry. New structures should feel as if they were constructed during the peak of activity on Salt Cay.

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

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R A

FT

3.2- VISION + PRINCIPLES | ISLAND THEMES

WHITE

REPRESENTS REPRESENTS THE SALT INDUSTRY ON THE ISLAND

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

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3.2- VISION + PRINCIPLES | ISLAND THEMES

OTHER ISLAND + CAYS “The color yellow represents God’s glory as the sun shining down on all our islands and cays. The sun also contributes to our newest industry: tourism.”

FT

“The color pink was chosen to represent that beautiful conch shell, flamingos and the numerous uninhabited cays that make up our chain of islands.”

CONCH SHELL, FLAMINGOS + SUN

R A

Natural The uninhabited islands of the Turks and Caicos should remain as untouched as possible. These islands are destinations for locals and tourists to experience the country in its natural state.

D

Without natural places within the archipelago the Turks and caicos looses its sense of pristine wonder.

Credit: Adobe Stock

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YELLOW

FT

REPRESENTS THE SUN AND TOURISM INDUSTRY

PINK

REPRESENTS THE CONCH SHELL AND FLAMINGOS

D

R A

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

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

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

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D R A FT

4.0

D

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FT

GOALS, OBJECTIVES, + STRATEGIES

4 .1 - S T R A T E G I C G O A L S

GOAL 1

FT

FOCUS DEVELOPMENT: CONCENTRATE DEVELOPMENT AND SETTLEMENTS WHILE MAINTAINING EXISTING/HISTORIC CHARACTER

A more compact settlement node helps identify the character that defines each settlement. For example, Grace Bay has built up hospitality options, such as resorts and hotels, along the beach to create a walkable street from the eastern to western end with pedestrian infrastructure (sidewalks and street lights). The corridor would be more ideal for pedestrians if there were street lights and continuous street frontage that provided a sense of security and safety. While improvements could certainly be made, the Grace Bay node has an intrinsic and memorable identity appropriate for that particular settlement. On a similar note, Front Street operates with the same understanding. Each settlement should have its own unique identity.

A balance between settlements and the environment within the Turks and Caicos Islands will form the TCIslander culture. These low-density, urbanized cores cluster activity together to form the ‘center’ of each settlement.

The National Physical Sustainable Development Plan celebrates the individual and often historic character of the islands and overarching culture of the Turks and Caicos Islands. The settlements are the heart of the built environment for the archipelago. They provide a mix of land uses together as a nodal feature for TCIslanders and tourists.

R A

The clustering and increased activity together are better for the livelihood of each settlement. If a complete set of infrastructure is in place - circulation, ecological, social, civic, and mixed-use - the settlement core becomes walkable and easy to understand for the common resident. This concentration creates a ‘place’ that is easily recognized and remembered, offering a destination for locals and tourists to easily identify.

D

Mixed Use / Settlement Elements

Historic preservation

Maintain character

Infill Development > New Development

Defining Land Use

Objectives

Growth Boundaries

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Design guidelines

Providing the parts for the complete system / providing a variety of uses that meet the needs of the residents

D

R A

FT

4 .1 - S T R A T E G I C G O A L S

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The environment is ever changing; however, it is globally accepted that human impact has sped up the process of climate change to a point that requires more thought into the decisions that are made within both the built environment and ecological realms.

GOAL 2

FT

STRENGTHEN RESILIENCE: ENVIRONMENTAL + ECONOMIC

Resilience refers to the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties (Google). Regions and cities globally are looking to resilience as a key indicator for sustainability; can the environment and economy survive local, national, and global disasters? The Turks and Caicos should strengthen their resilience for natural disasters from both an environmental and economic understanding.

The Turks and Caicos Islands should promote environmental and economic resilience in all projects and decisions.

R A

Environmental Environmental resilience is key to maintaining the essence of the Turks and Caicos Islands: nature as beauty. Following the phrases “Nature as Beauty” and “Beautiful by Nature,” TCI is known for its beauty of the natural environment. To maintain this characteristic, there must be protection of key assets.

Economic Economic resilience is the ability of an economy to “cope, recover, and reconstruct” to minimize negative economic impact after a natural disaster (Stephane Hallagatte, World Bank). With an increase in the frequency of natural disasters and the current experience of COVID-19, economic resilience is more important than ever for the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Objectives

ENVIRONMENTAL

ECONOMIC

D

Growth Management

Preservation and Conservation Efforts Follow National Parks Ordinance in Relation to Land Use Decisions

Investment and Usage of Renewable Energy Protect Native Flora and Fauna Coastal Development and Management: Shoreline Protection Maritime Network Resilience

Diversification of Industries Locate New Industries in Viable Locations Engage in Pubic Private Partnerships Move Away from Real Estate-Driven Economy Enhance Hospitality Offerings Increase the Tourism Budget to Compete Regionally

Natural Disaster Resilience

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D

R BA LA AN FCET

4 .1 - S T R A T E G I C G O A L S

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4 .1 - S T R A T E G I C G O A L S

Equity in land use represents making decisions with the community, for the community. The NPSDP is a joint effort spearheaded by the Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing, and Planning and the Department of Planning, while the development of the plan is led by a nonpartisan consultant team.

GOAL 3

FT

EQUITY: EQUITABLE OPPORTUNITY FOR ALL

While the consultant team has led this effort, the entire plan hinges on feedback gathered from TCI Governmental entities, key stakeholders, and the general public. The consultant team pieced the public input together and used their expertise in planning, design, infrastructure, economics, tourism, and coastal and environmental resources to make informed, thoughtful decisions for the future of preservation and development within the Turks and Cacios Islands.

The NPSDP will inject equity into every objective, strategy, and recommendation (policy).

R A

The Turks and Caicos Islands needs to continue to provide equal access for all; however, all governmental entities should make equity a priority for the National Physical Sustainable Development Plan (NPSDP). The goal of an equitable land use for all is to achieve a fair and just plan that correctly distributes resources and access within built and natural development. Equity will prove most beneficial for those who need more benefits or assistance, rather than ignoring some, creating opportunities is needed for those who will benefit the most. Equity can impact gentrification, affordable housing, access to transportation and open space, and the overall quality of life. Equity and resilience will need to overlap, as both goals must plan for the most vulnerable first.

D

Distribute Population Strategically Among Islands

Combination of Policies + Projects

Plan for Future Residential Development through Targeting Areas and a Phased Approach

Beach Access

Implement and Support (Affordable) Housing

Promote Sustainable Development Goals

Expand Opportunities for Agriculture

Create Long-term Housing Options for Current and Future Residents

Objectives

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R A

FT

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4 .1 - S T R A T E G I C G O A L S

GOAL 4

FT

CONNECTIVITY: CONNECT THE TURKS AND CAICOS

critically important in linking the island chain. In the near term, creating a practical and achievable system of island connectivity should be a critical goal. While some ferry services currently exist, their frequency is limited and their reliability is suspect. Further, not all major islands are served.

The Turks and Caicos archipelago presents a unique challenge for physical and cultural connections. The location and physical, geographic form offer fewer options for circulation than that of an entity without an island formation. It is a costly endeavor - environmentally and monetarily - for TCI to establish an island connection for vehicles. TCI has existed for years with the normalization of marine and air connections compared to vehicular connection.

Connectivity, of course, refers to on-island connectivity as well. Each island is responsible for completing all networks of infrastructure - pedestrian, biking, greenways, marine, and vehicular. All islands need some version of infrastructural improvements, from sidewalks to complete the pedestrian network on Grand Turk to the additional of a bicycle lane along the highway from Sandy Point to Bambarra on North and Middle Caicos or a network of greenways on each island for alternative, multi-modal transportation networks.

R A

Culturally, island and cay connection is further hindered without ease of access - in both a physical and nonmaterial sense. It is costly to move between islands for education, employment, and the exchange of cultural aspects.

Creation of an intra-coastal waterway to connect North Caicos, Middle Caicos, South Caicos, Grand Turk and Salt Cay to Providenciales should be studied in detail.

Generally, a system could be developed that would include vessels capable of open ocean travel (to/from South Caicos to Grand Turk and Salt Cay) as well as those with shallow water draft to utilize the Caicos Bank (to/from Provo, North Caicos, Middle Caicos and South Caicos).

The islands should establish a better connection for the movement of goods, services, and people. The ease of movement of goods and services will bring more economic opportunity to all inhabited islands. TCIslanders will be able to move with more ease for opportunities in employment, education, and in general if the inter-island connection is strengthened and/or established.

D

A physical connection is partly established presently. There is air travel between the majority of islands and a ferry connection between certain islands, as shown on the maps on the following page. The only vehicular connection that exists is between North and Middle Caicos, which is known locally as the causeway. See section 3.0 for additional information on the Spine Link Connection.

It is imperative to note that safety, reliability, and cohesion (speed?) are at the heart of every successful connectivity means. While some layers of connectivity are in place, the continued success and development of TCI will depend on adding to and improving existing connectivity.

While these connections were previously analyzed in the Site Inventory and Analysis Report, TCI must establish better physical connections amongst the inhabited islands.

In the highly segmented archipelago of TCI, reliable, efficient, and cost-effective connectivity of goods and people is a necessity. A reliable water-based system is 92

Table: Operational Ferry Routes, Comparatively

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D

Map: Existing Air Routes

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Map: Proposed Vehicular Connection (Spine Link Caicos Connection)

Distribute Population Strategically Among Islands

D

Combination of Policies + Projects

Promote Sustainable Development Goals

Implement and Support (Affordable) Housing

Expand Opportunities for Agriculture

Create Long-term Housing Options for Current and Future Residents

Plan for Future Residential Development through Targeting Areas and a Phased Approach

Objectives

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Beach Access

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TECHNOLOGY: ESTABLISHING A FUTURE AS A TECHNOLOGY HUB

FT

GOAL 5

The goal is to address technology in every sense of skill development, processes, and the production of goods and services within TCI. While traditional land use is not tied to technology and technological advances, it is important to understand the technological aspects that affect the physical allocation and use of the land. For example, the private and public sectors will become more tied to new technologies and access will become key. The creation of systems and networks will need to be overlaid over the physical land uses assigned across each island. These networks will have key nodes and patterns that need to be identified, understood, and protected for the future ease of access of the land.

Technology is at the center of the future on all fronts: adaptions to agriculture, changes to every day life, renewable resources, employment opportunities, and many more.

Both the public and private sectors need to push and implement new technologies to stay competitive regionally and globally, attract and retain new businesses and talent, and implement and promote cutting edge research and development processes and discoveries.

R A

The Turks and Caicos Islands are not ahead of the curve, but there should be a main priority within both the public and private sectors to stay technologically relevant and to not fall behind. If the future is technologically-focused, TCI needs to be on the forefront of cutting edge ideas, research and development (R&D), renewable resources, and technology access to stay competitive with the rest of the region.

D

Expand to two fiber optic cables

Objectives

Lead Caribbean in Tech Access and Development

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Implement and Promote Research and Development “Parks” (Space)

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Target industries that capitalize in new technologies

R A

FT

4 .1 - S T R A T E G I C G O A L S

D

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

Photo: Nenad Kajić / Veneko.hr

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4 . 2 - O B J E C T I V E S + S T R AT E G I E S

OBJECTIVES + STRATEGIES 1. STRENGTHEN RESILIENCE

Follow National Park Ordinance in Relation to Land Use Decisions The national parks, reserves, marine reserves, and areas of historical interest identified in the National Parks Ordinance should be held to the highest standard of protection. Like previously mentioned, there should be no development allowed within any of the these identified areas for the preservation of the natural environment in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

FT

ENVIRONMENTAL

and conservation and evaluation of past methods of preservation and conservation.

Environmental resilience is key to maintain the essence of the Turks and Caicos Islands: nature as beauty. Following the phrases “Nature as Beauty” and “Beautiful by Nature,” TCI is known for its beauty of the natural environment. To maintain this characteristic, there must be protection of key assets.

Investment and Usage of Renewable Energy The TCI Government should continue and further crosscollaborate with other TCIG governmental entities and key stakeholders managing utilities, such as City Water, Digicel, Flow, FortisTCI, and TCI Water Company. A policy should be set to become renewable energy-focused within the next ten (10) years, with a long term projection for total island operation on solely renewable energy.

R A

The TCI Environmental Charter sets out ten (10) guiding principles and eleven (11) committments by both the U.K. Government and TCI Government for the future protection of the TCI environment.

Growth management In order to protect the natural envrionment, there must be boundaries to human or built development. Referred to as growth management, this strategy hinges on establishing boundaries for human settlements before built forms stretch into critical habitats or protected areas.

Growth boundaries should buffer built settlement from the untouched, natural environment. Growth management is an accepted practice and policy globally; the boundaries should be re-evaluated so that the NPSDP maintains environmental resilience.

D

Preservation and Conservation Efforts The Turks and Caicos Islands need to prioritize the preservation and conservation of open space, national parks, and critical habitats of both the land and sea. As mentioned previously, the natural environment is the jewel of the Turks and Caicos Islands; it must be protected for current and future generations to enjoy and admire.

There are on-going preservation and conservation programs, policies (ordinances,) and organziations, such as the National Trust. The TCI Governmental entities should continue to invest in preservation and conservation methodologies, while also reevaluating every update of the NPSDP as to what additional spaces need preservation

98

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) 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.

There are currently three islands with proposed projects currently going through permitting through Invest TCI and the Planning Department on the islands of Providenciales, North Caicos, and Grand Turk. Energy-based permitting projects should receive priority access to Crown land.

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4 . 2 - O B J E C T I V E S + S T R AT E G I E S

There is a finite amount of physical coastline in the TCI archipelago. Further, limited amounts of varying shoreline types are present on each island, if at all, with varying degrees of existing development. As such, coastal properties and shorelines represent a finite resource that must be responsibly and holistically managed. This management must occur on a national scale as well as island and smaller zonal shoreline scales. Emphasis should be put on conservation, management, and preservation. Table 6 presents an inventory of shoreline types for each primary study islands. Total shoreline length of the primary study islands is approximately 244 miles and estimated total shoreline length of all islands and cays within the nation of TCI is over 500 miles.

FT

Protect Native Flora and Fauna by Defining Limits of Critical Ecosystems The ultimate goal of of environmental protection and environmental resilience is the protection of native flora and fauna within and specific to the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Not all types of coastal shorelines in TCI can support all types of coastal development. Final mapping exhibits and GIS framework data are included in Appendix A2.3 that indicates a range of potential coastal development types and rankings along shorelines of each study island.

R A

In the Site Inventory and Analysis Report, maps delineate land cover/habitat for the six islands cover under this project: Providenciales, North Caicos, Middle Caicos, South Caicos, Grand Turk and Salt Cay. Data was based on the vegetation and mapping project completed by Blue Dolphin in 2010 for TCI; however, given the limitations of this project, no new information or data on habitat categories, species of interest, and critical habitat was gathered. There should be further work done to protect the critical habitats identified within the Site Inventory and Analysis Report.

D

Coastal Development and Management: Shoreline Protection The results of the coastal development potential analysis are presented in perimeter defined maps for Providenciales, North Caicos, Middle Caicos, South Caicos, Grand Turk, and Salt Cay. However, simply because a shoreline can theoretically support a particular type or types of development, does not necessarily exclude the possibility of others, or of complete preservation or restoration of the natural environment. The results of the coastal development potential are ultimately intended to be used as a practical reference in combination with other layers of data to guide planning and decision making on a case by case basis. The framework plans should be used as a guide as to where preserve shorelines and where amenable development could prosper (with all other factors considered.) An appropriate amount of development has been identified for each island.

TCI shorelines are a valuable coastal resource for numerous reasons. They provide physical settings for coastal development, water and public access, attraction for tourism, recreation, coastal hazard protection, outstanding natural beauty, and an assortment of environmental habitats, species, and processes.

The management of the coastal zone, whether developed or preserved, must account for specific coastal hazards that exist now, as well as future hazards due to climate change and sea level rise that will significantly impact TCI. The planning, design, construction, and operations of any development in the coastal zone must incorporate resiliency, specifically against coastal hazards and climate change.

Sand mining should be evaluated to provide a source of beach compatible sand for shoreline restoration projects.

The official policy framework that governs coastal resources and development in the coastal zone, must be clear, effective, efficient, and enforceable.

Maritime Network Resilience The system of seaports must support the typical operational needs of the islands but also incorporate resilience in their capacity and operations to serve

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4 . 2 - O B J E C T I V E S + S T R AT E G I E S

Improvements are required on North Caicos and South Caicos. Facilities should be evaluated on Middle Caicos and Salt Cay. Minimal attributes should include: • Functional water depth including entrance waterways and berths should support all existing and envisioned vessel drafts plus 3-4 ft of over-dredge for advance maintenance and ship flexibility.

• Minimal infrastructure to support RoRo and container vessels.

• Properly sized and designed seawalls, bollards, fendering, ramps and piers • Hurricane tie down equipment • Secure storage facilities appropriate for the site/ island • Perimeter fencing and security Natural Disaster Resilience Natural disasters are becoming a more common occurance as the climate changes at a faster rate than in the past.

The TCIG should prioritize natural methods to increase resilience rather than man-made of built methods.

FT

of large-scale projects. Individual development or infrastructure projects should not be required to construct waterfront facilities that only serve the needs of a single project. This increases costs, discourages development, and does not provide wider benefits to the islands and their inhabitants.

Development on islands without seaport facilities or facilities with low capacity or poor infrastructure will necessarily be severely limited.

R A

The commercial maritime industry, including cargo vessels, shipping and construction barges, similar operations, and the entities that own and operate them must be expanded to increase capacity, introduce competition, improve reliability and efficiency, and lower costs. Uncertainty and high costs related to existing cargo and shipping movement discourages development.

The ability to provide goods and equipment is critical to quality of life. Also, development on islands without seaport facilities or facilities with low capacity or poor infrastructure will necessarily be severely limited.

D

Due to island build-out, population density, and tourism demand, Providenciales is and should continue to be the primary port in the TCI. The envisioned improvement plan for Provo’s port should remain a priority.

A stormwater network needs to be established, specifically for the more developed islands of Providenciales and Grand Turk. The system of wells on Providenciales should be more closely monitored and constantly flooding, low-lying areas should be excluded from continuous redevelopment.

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ECONOMIC

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Economic resilience is the ability of an economy to “cope, recover, and reconstruct” to minimize negative economic impact after a natural disaster (Stephane Hallagatte, World Bank), a global pandemic in the case of COVID-19, or political upheavals. With an increase in the frequency of natural disasters and the current experience of COVID-19, economic resilience is more important than ever for the Turks and Caicos Islands.

smaller communities with an influx of people, circulation, or infrastructure needs. All industries recommended in the attached appendix of economic assessment should be located in areas that already have the needed infrastructure or would require less additional infrastructure compared to vacant parcels far away from development nodes or settlement centers. New industries should have locations on islands outside of Providenciales in an effort to spread the economic benefits and limit the additional pressure on Providenciales. Key locations are highlighted on the island Framework Plans, but it is highly suggested to target settlement centers when possible.

Engage Public Private Partnerships (P3) Public private partnerships are great options for attracting new industries and businesses to the Turks and Caicos Islands. A P3 is defined as “a contractual agreement between a public agency (federal, state, or local) and a private sector entity. Through this agreement, the skills and assets of each sector (public and private) are shared in delivering a service or facility for the use of the general public. In addition to the sharing of resources, each party shares in the risks and rewards potential in the delivery of the service and/or facility,” (National Council for PublicPrivate Partnerships (NCPPPP). As the Turks and Caicos Government already has experience with P3s, new, largescale projects should take advantage of the development opportunities allotted with each potential partnership.

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Diversification of Industries Apart from the tourism, off shore financial services, and real estate industries, the Turks and Caicos Islands do not have many more, if any, competitive industries. All industries previously mentioned have large caveats of potential instability. Tourism can fluctuate with global pandemics and the instability of the dollar ($) and pound (£). Off shore financial markets are subject to more regulation and scrutiny. Real estate as an industry will be expanded upon later on in this summary. In short, the three industries mentioned need to balanced out with symbiotic alternatives; additional industries will add another layer of stability and sustainability to the Turks and Caicos Islands economy.

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Industry diversification is imperative for the Turks and Caicos Islands. The current economy relies heavily on tourism with support from the financial services and real estate industries. A singular-focus on tourism is not sustainable and is more difficult to make resilient. Factors like economic competitiveness, promoting an increase in trade of goods and services, and establishing businesses that develop trade skills all play a role in the diversification of industries.

TCIG should vet and explore several other potential industries that would make the Turks and Caicos Islands a more competitive option for new technology and industry needs. There are more details in the Appendix under Economic and Tourism.

Locate New Industries in Viable Locations New industries should be strategically placed to take advantage of existing infrastructure and to not overwhelm

Move Away from Real Estate Economy The Turks and Caicos Islands development strategy is wholly dependent not on tourism as the numbers reflect, but also on real estate. Development in TCI is driven by pure real estate transactions.

Residential development does not produce the amount of jobs or retail demand that pure tourism does. Currently, retail accounts only for 2% of their expenditure pattern, which is extremely low as compared to other competing destinations.

The definition of the hospitality industry should be clarified to promote balance and sustainability. Relying primarily on stamp duty related to real estate development and offering the same incentives for both hotels and real estate

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There has to be a balance, and there needs to be a clear line on what normally constitutes tourism and/or hospitality investment versus real estate investment.

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To mitigate the impact of the constant fluctuations in available hotel rooms, TCI policies should encourage a healthy balance and control growth on vacation rentals with limitations for occupancy lasting longer than 60 days.

This will create a stabilized permanent pool of hotel supply always available to the tourist market consistent with market demand. Likewise, it will mitigate the impact on the housing sector of constant fluctuations in housing stock to accommodate tourists during peak periods, which turn into unoccupied housing units during shoulder and slower times of year.

success. Now more than ever many destinations are forced to reinvent themselves and strengthen their ability to respond to the challenges of retaining customers, gaining confidence and attracting new customers. This entails the following resources: • Robust marketing resources • Fast and efficient organization with an adequate governance structure with the integration of different private and public stakeholders operating under a common goal: providing input, guidance, decision-making and resources.

• Marketing intelligence to define strategy and real time statistics for policy decision making.

• Collecting relevant sector data on a timely basis.

As compared to similar destinations the budget allocated to the Tourist board is extremely poor. The budget is not consistent with the revenues directly generated by the industry, such as accommodation tax and other associated fees and taxes (ie: airport and air travel taxes and stamp duty on land transaction). These revenues alone represent 26 percent of the total revenue by economic classification for financial year 2020/2021. With the remaining of the resources detailed in the paragraph above absent as well, it will difficult if not almost impossible to ensure an effective marketing effort that allows the destination to recover from the most catastrophic event in the industry´s history. A concerted effort will be needed to retain the destinations positioning.

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Traditional hotels and branded hotels have been critical elements for the success of other competing destinations.

It is anticipated that should vacation rental supply continue to grow at this pace coupled with muted demand on the hotels, it could exercise a negative pressure on the destination’s overall performance.

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Pursuing sustainability and tourism development as the road to economic recovery will require a healthy balance in lodging supply and a clear differentiation between what constitutes tourism development and what constitutes real estate development. This is clearly a policy issue. The need to determine the road between competing to attract tourism or promoting real estate development or striking a balance between both is critical for the long-term success of the destination. In any instance, to attract investment it is necessary to qualify tourist offer.

Enhance Hospitality Offerings Sense of place is essential for a destination to succeed and excel in tourism. People travel to experience a destination - to sense it, to taste it, and to feel a part of it. Architecture, landmarks, attractions, gastronomy, local craftsmanship, galleries and connecting with the destination´s history and its people are the most effective instruments to generate a sense of place. There as some very good examples on how leading destinations have brough both residents and locals together to generate a sense of place.

Increase the Tourism Budget to Compete Regionally Effective marketing is an essential tool for a destination’s

Tourism and transport sector employ 13,000 persons annually (directly or indirectly) and contributed more than USD 357 million of the country´s GDP in 2019. It is critical to examine ways on how public and private sector can come together to protect the industry.

Migrating from a traditionally marketing and promotion focus, to the formation of a Destination Marketing Organization is trend and an excellent option to consider.

Consistent with our findings, TCI has excelled in tourism in many aspects and more importantly Provo as the major hub of tourism is consolidated enough to take the reign.

This will allow for the much-needed cohesive tourism development in the remaining of the country. Public and private efforts and resources to the use of the destination´s main industry, all under one goal.

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GROWTH BOUNDARIES

HISTORIC PRESERVATION + MAINTAIN CHARACTER Protecting the character and history of the Turks and Caicos Islands is vital for current and future generations of TCIslanders. Standards established in the Development Manual and Design Guidelines should be adhered to in an effort to maintain the character and culture established for each island and settlement, as well as the archipelago in its entirity.

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2. CONCENTRATE DEVELOPMENT SETTLEMENTS WHILE MAINTAINING EXISTING + HISTORIC CHARACTER

Design Guidelines Guidelines on the development and design standards are provided in Appendix A4.0 of this document. These guidelines are provided to perpetuate the island character and overall culture of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

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In order to protect the natural envrionment, there must be boundaries to human or built development. Referred to as growth management, this strategy hinges on establishing boundaries for human settlements before built forms stretch into critical habitats or protected areas. Growth management is an accepted practice and policy globally; the boundaries should be re-evaluated every update to the NPSDP to maintain environmental resilience.

DEFINING LAND USE

This plan includes a land use plan for each inhabited island (excluding private cays) that should be treated as the first stop on any development process or permitting process within or outside of the Planning Department.

INFILL DEVELOPMENT BEFORE NEW DEVELOPMENT

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Due to the shrinking amount of Crown land on each island and a pro-environmental stance, the Turks and Caicos Islands should focus development within areas where development alreay occurs, referred to as infill development, rather than parcels with no current or previous development, referred to as greenfields.

MIXED-USE SETTLEMENT ELEMENTS It is imperative to provide a variety of uses that meet the needs of the residents. Mixed-use development is more environmentally-friendly and provides a cluster of services and housing typologies within a smaller footprint. Mixeduse land designations should focus along commerical corridors and settlement centers.

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3. EQUITABLE OPPORTUNITY FOR ALL

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DISTRIBUTE POPULATION STRATEGICALLY AMONG ISLANDS

of Housing should work with the Planning Department and the Division of Crown Land to focus on developing Crown land parcels into affordable housing developments, while also establishing a policy to work with local developers on privatized affordable housing.

Housing There is an estimated demand for between roughly 8,600 and 13,300 new primary households during the next 20+ years. In terms of land utilization, housing will be by far the largest development sector over the next several years. As a result, and considering the desire to preserve land and open space throughout TCI, there should be a concentrated effort to focus more on intensified (multifamily) development. As a matter of fact, demographic forecasts indicate planning for multifamily product will be met with an aging population and a marginally diminishing family base. While single family housing will still be prominent, higher density housing in particular is encouraged in Providenciales and can serve as the anchor for mixed use development. This same policy may apply to other islands such as Grand Turk and North Caicos, which should only help to alleviate the heavy concentration of housing in Providenciales. Moreover, there should also be a focus on increasing homeownership to provide residents a greater vested interest in their community.

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Currently, Providenciales is overwhelmed with development and population size, while other islands are experiencing a flight of their population. Opportunity, development, education, and catalystic projects and supporting policies should be strategically placed among the inhabited islands. This does not mean all islands should become as ‘urbanized’ or populated as Providenciales; however, Providenciales cannot continue to develop and grow at the current rate without major, structural change in development and policy.

CREATE LONG-TERM HOUSING OPTIONS FOR CURRENT AND FUTURE RESIDENTS

COMBINATION OF POLICIES + PROJECTS

The Planning Department should strategically lead the coordination and collaboration of TCIG departments, entities, and key stakeholders on cross-referencing policies, strategies, and current and future visions to make sure all entities are on the same page and understanding of a cohesive future.

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There should be an effort made to collaborate on key, catalyst projects and the enforcement and support of policies across many departments.

IMPLEMENT AND SUPPORT (AFFORDABLE) HOUSING There is a need to expand attainable/affordable housing which can be driven by policy initiatives such as deconcentration of poverty and inclusionary zoning.

TCIG should work with developers and the Department of Housing to create affordable units within each multifamily development; the most successful precedents require a percentage of units within each multifamily development, such as 10-20% of total units. The reinstated Department

More importantly, there is a need to plan for an aging population. The Planning Department and Department of Housing should focus on accessory apartments, shared housing arrangements, multifamily apartments, assisted living, small-scale campuses. Universal Design practices should be promoted to accommodate all levels of ability. A key in the location of housing for an aging population are to focus on nearby infrastructure access; the developments should be within a close range of transportation options or a walkable distance to civic and local commercial facilities.

Future policies should consider • Walkability • Transportation options • Affordability • Accessibility • Access to social services and cultural amenities

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PLAN FOR FUTURE RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT THROUGH TARGETING AREAS AND A PHASED APPROACH

BEACH ACCESS

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To truly development in a comprehensive and cohesive manner, the Planning Deaprtment should target or focus on specific settlements and/or developments with a phased approach and understanding. Each settlement should have all pieces of infrastructure implemented for full functionality and projected success. The final NPSDP will include implementation, monitoring, and evaluation strategies that can be deployed on all islands.

There are seventeen (17) goals that are projected to 2030.  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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While the Department of the Environment and Coastal Resources (DECR) is finalizing a Beach Access Policy, the importance of beach access points should not be forgotten. Specifically, a concerted effort should be made to provide easily accessible shoreline and beach access to the general public. Consideration should be given to requiring such access be considered or incorporated when private developments are planned and constructed.

Note that beach access points were not identified due to the scale of this investigation. It is recommended that improvements be made particularly on Providenciales including parking, signage, solid waste collection, shade structures and in some cases bathrooms.

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PROMOTE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS

The United Nations (UN) 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.

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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EXPAND OPPORTUNITIES FOR AGRICULTURE

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The Turks and Caicos Islands would be well served with having focuses on food security and sustainability and further its evaluation of the agri-tourism sector. On-going exploration of the nascent hydroponics sub-industry is also warranted. This speciďŹ c industry creates opportunities to enhance agricultural output through either indoor or outdoor production and provides a major contribution to sustainable farming. However, this industry is not without notable challenges around knowledge, costs, power needs, and disease vulnerability. Therefore, from a land use and development planning perspective, there is a

need to consider the optimal geographic positioning of not only traditional farming methods, but these emerging sectors as well. Furthermore, improving the domestic transportation and supply chain infrastructure would give TCI the opportunity to better support linkages to the tourism industry.

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TCI should continue to build on the Kew Government Farm in North Caicos, which currently serves primarily as a de facto demonstration plot. The National Physical Development Plan will include commercial agricultural land recommendations and best suited for Middle and North Caicos.

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4. CONNECTIVITY

ADVANCE MOBILITY OPTIONS

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Walking Pedestrians will only choose to walk if there is proper infrstructure in place. This infrastructure includes sidewalks, street lighting, walkability radi, buffer landscaping from heavy traffic, signage and wayfinding, and trials, greenways, or multi-modal pathways. Settlements should be obvious places to start implementing complete pedestrian infrastructure networks. It is recommended to established a Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan for the islands.

Marine While there is an existing ferry system and network in place, it is often unreliable and not catered to creating a comfortable ride from one island to another. A successful ferry system must be reliable, comfortable, sufficiently frequent and safe to attract a continuous stream of residential and tourism users. More residents could rely on the ferry for work or recreational purposes, and tourists could spread their economic contribution through the islands rather than mainly Provo.

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Biking Bicycling is a mode of transportation that has the most potential, as the infrastructure can be easily added to vehicular mobility corridors and tends to be a lower cost investment with a high pay off if a network is established.

It is most vital to create an easily-idenitifed system on each island for comfort and safety aspects for cyclists and vehicular users to utilize and understand, respectively.

The NPSDP proposes an enhanced ferry service, which will include: • Reduced travel times and increased frequency of transport • Improved watercraft • High speeds • Enclosed and comfortable for guests • Variety of ferry types including high speed, shallow draft ferries through the interior Caicos Bank (potentially via “hoverboats” or similar) and seaworthy vessels to safely and comfortably transport across most open sea conditions to Grand Turk, Salt Cay and South Caicos.

• Direct routes to more island locations (Middle Caicos, Central Providenciales, West Caicos) • Improved landings (i.e. Middle Caicos, North Caicos, Salt Cay, South Caicos) • Conditioned and enclosed waiting areas.

• Safe and shaded boarding areas • Baggage and small material handling • Maintenance system and redundant water craft to maintain set schedules

Bicycling should also be pushed as a mode of transportaiton to attract bicycling tourism. With a geography and beauty like the Turks and Caicos Islands, cyclists will flock to the island if the infrastructure is in place. Sports tourism has potential in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

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Public Transit With the future of automobiles a desestating effect on the environment, the high traffic counts and near-capacity Providenciales highways, and the high cost assoicated with personal use automobiles in TCI, it is highly recommended to implement a public transit system. A system might sound daunting, but with an island like Providenciales, the system might operate with shorter routes to and ffrom key destinations. Public transit, if utilized correctly, will reduce the number of personal cars on the highways, which, in turn, reduces traffic. This is mainly applicable to Providenciales. A study on the top destinations for taxis and personal car systems should align with key development nodes; this study will bring to light the key areas to implement public transit stops.

To note: public transit only works when connected to comprehensive pedestrian and/or bicycling networks.

Existing ports and ferry landings were mapped with the marina facilities development potential results as, together, these operations create TCI’s commercial maritime network.

Potential locations for future facilities are also mapped based on deep water access, routing, island location, and similar needs.

Vehicular The team has visually assessed the roadway system with respect to their condition and integrity and generally determined what, if any remedial work is required to maintain or improve their lifespan. Please see Appendix A1.0 Site Inventory and Analysis Report for the teams findings.

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an excellent option to implement for alternative modes of transportation. Other benefits have been mentioned under ‘Advance Mobility Options’.

AIRPORT ENHANCEMENT

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All islands function circulation-wise through access to a personal car. While there is a global trend moving away from personal automobiles, the current roadway network needs to consider a few aspects for upgrades in the coming decade. All islands should develop access standards for future developments (including access spacing and need for turn lanes for safe operation and to prevent impeding traffic flow for through traffic). There should also be uniform traffic control (traffic signs and markings) within all islands for wayfinding and operations purposes. All islands should apply and use speed-control devices, develop sight visibility standards, and provide recommendations regarding the use of stop signs, traffic circles and traffic signals at minor and major intersections.

There should be safe operation of school buses (at locations for drop off and pick up of students) policy applied as well.

The Providenciales International Airport (PLS) is the only international port of entry besides the Grand Turk Cruise Terminal. It is the main point of entry for the Turks and Caicos Islands. The TCI Airport Authority has plans for a new terminal creation on the southern side of the airport.

The NPSDP Providenciales Framework Plan addresses this project with vigor and the associated circulation route update as well.

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All other islands have airport footprints; however, not all are currently functioning. Middle Caicos should be left to the end of the priority list, as the North Caicos airport can provide access for Middle Caicos as well. North Caicos also has current plans through Invest TCI and the Planning Department for an redevelopment. South Caicos is in immediate need of redevelopment and enhancement. The Grand Turk airport would benefit from improvements to make it applicable to international flights, as a future hub for the Turks Islands. The Salt Cay airport was recently updated. Reliability and guest comfort should be improved at each airport throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Providenciales, specifically, should develop short-term (2-3 years) and long-term (5-10 years) transportation improvement programs. The short-term transportation improvement program would include auxiliary lanes, replacement of speed bumps with speed humps or speed tables, traffic signals, replacement of sub-standard traffic circles. Long term transportation improvements would include roadway widening (from 2 lanes to 2 lanes + center turn lane, from 2-4 lanes and from 4-6 lanes).

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CREATE NEW MULTI-MODAL TRANSPORTATION INFRASTRUCTURE

Pedestrian and bicycling infrastructure together creating multi-modal transportation options for residents and locals alike. With the beauty of the Turks and Caicos Islands combined with flat topography, greenways - multimodal pathways often separated from vehicular circulation - are

REPAIR AND UPGRADE EXISTING INFRASTRUCTURE Connectivity references all types of infrastructure including utilities.

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5. FUTURE AS A TECHNOLOGY HUB EXPAND TO FIBER OPTIC NETWORK industries in order to diversify its tourism dependency unless a strategy is put in place to attract foreign workers.

In line with Barbados’ 12-month remote -work stay program, TCI could offer an extra incentive. Promote skilled workers to run their businesses from Provo or to open new ones with special strong incentives in sister islands. The sister islands could benefit from artists, designers, architects, and persons with different skill sets to come and establish businesses. Transfer of knowledge and experience between visitors and locals would promote social cohesion.

The program could serve to attract and support investment that generates wealth and qualified employment.

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To be competitive with other Caribbean nations in a technology market, the Turks and Caicos Islands should prioritize investing in replacing the needed components of the current, singular fiber optic cable and and a secondary fiber optic cable. Technological access, no matter the distance, is highly valued by travelers and those who work remotely. As COVID-19 has shown, remote work is becoming much more attainable for most; employees are looking for locations with excellent internet access to set up longer, temporary work stations or new hubs of employment if the facilities exist. Access to high speed internet is vital.

Locations for future skills training facilities should be clustered within mixed-use developments, settlement centers, community centers, and secondary education campuses.

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A secondary fiber optic cable is also the only way to attract investors and businesses interested in establishing data centers. Besides the high investment in the fiber optic cable, the remainder of the infrastructure would be low cost to TCIG. A secondary fiber optic cable will be a large capital investment project, but it has the potential to bring another industry to better pad the TCI economy for future longevity, attract remote workers, and better access for current TCIslanders.

LEAD CARIBBEAN IN TECH ACCESS AND DEVELOPMENT

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Expand Skills Training Human resources (as it relates to population and skills) are a unique transversal asset. In general, the Turks and Caicos Islands has a population with good skills, education, and a strong orientation to quality service. The biggest challenge is the low population.

TCI has 12 tourists per person vs. Latin American and the Caribbean’s 1.2 tourists per person, and a worldwide 3.3 tourists per person. This is a reason for concern due to the risks associated with not being able to serve tourist demands because of the short supply of workforce. It becomes critical to reinforce the prestige of tourism jobs, create critical mass adapted to market needs, and promote equal opportunities.

The rapid growth of Provo´s tourism industry is challenged by a shortage of willing and skilled workers. It is very unlikely the destination is capable of expanding into other

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Promote Hi-Tech Research Centers In an effort to provide more options for industry diversification, TCI could focus on merging technology, education and research, and environmental sustainability.

Reserach-able institutions (and education centers) such as The School for Field Studies Marine Resource Center and the South Atlantic Environmental Research Institute, among others, would capitalize on opportunities to have space within the Turks and Caicos Islands for nearby research projects. TCIG should make these opportunities available and attractive for like-minded institutions to research aspects related to the future of TCI and globe at a high interest level.

IMPLEMENT AND PROMOTE RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT NODES There is estimated demand for 250,000+ (moderate) to 450,000+ (upper) square feet of office space during the next 20+ horizon. Providenciales provides an opportunity to accommodate at least half of the office demand within more centralized business clusters supporting financial, professional/technical services, and medical uses.

Furthermore, new office development can potentially serve as a strong supporting use within mixed use development.

Outside of Providenciales, the balance of demand can

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be positioned around emerging housing and commercial nodes which is likely to be in Grand Turk, or North Caicos with the opportunity to leverage off of the government’s central facilities.

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Estimates for industrial demand indicate a range of 600,000+ (moderate) to 900,000 square feet (upper) over a 20+ year time frame. The natural positioning for industrial development is proximity to the port and airport in Providenciales. However, depending upon infrastructure and connectivity planning, some industrial related uses will be needed around commercial activity in Grand Turk, as well as for potential agriculture (ie. hydroponics) in North Caicos.

continues to engage with experts for further industry development, including through a recent KPMG report.

These initiatives seemingly factored into prospective job growth as highlighted in preceding sections. It is clear that TCI is furthest along the path to a robust financial services industry in comparison to all of the other targeted industry assessments. Nevertheless, given the established foundations and the strength of the industry, further development of the financial services industry remains extremely viable.

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TARGET INDUSTRIES THAT CAPITALIZE IN NEW TECHNOLOGIES

Tech-focused Agriculture Tech-focued agriculture, such as hydroponics and aquaculture, is an option that should be further explored as a potential new industry that can positively impact the future TCI economy. Currently, the islands rely heavily on imports in terms of food consumption. As North Caicos is the only truly viable island for traditional agriculture due to soil typology, other, newer methods of agriculture should be explored to provide more sustainable food production and, hopefully, a positive economic benefit.

Existing Industry: Financial Services The financial services industry, second only to tourism, leads the Turks and Caicos Islands economy. Given viability of further industry development, financial services industry should remain a targeted focus of TCIG. TCIG could consider fintech as a way to jump-start further industry development, perhaps by examining Mauritian and Anguilla for insight into applicable initiatives.

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Many promising, industry-forward policies have been passed, but room still exists for further legislative updates and for new legislation, including a modern Tax Administration Procedures Act and updated Banking and Insurance Ordinances. From a labor standpoint, there are some TCIslander-focused programs, including a job training program, but progress remains unclear.

Much further progress would appear to come from refinement, rather than revamping, of the overall strategy; as such, TCIG might consider identifying a short series of “policy quick wins” from any prior, unimplemented recommendations within the 2007 National Socioeconomic Development Framework, the recent KPMG report, or any previous IMF reports on TCI’s financial services industry.

TCI exhibits strong engagement with international organizations to ensure compliance, build its reputation, and better develop its policy framework. Moreover, TCI

Aquaculture There is a strong indication from a regional perspective that vast potential exists for aquaculture opportunities in TCI. Though largely non-existent now, several next steps present themselves naturally to the aquaculture sector: • Consider a National Aquaculture Development Strategy modeled after St. Lucia’s • Move forward with more intensive environmental assessments that has already been identified as a needed initiative • Submit proposals for international investment and collaboration in aquaculture From a land use and development planning perspective, it is recommended to further explore the opportunity to use the underutilized inland salinas and convert them into aquaculture sites; and, determine suitable offshore locations for mariculture development.

Cloud and Data Centers Cloud and data centers, and the tech sector more broadly, present an exciting non-traditional industry opportunity to the Turks and Caicos Islands, especially as geography becomes less of a constraining factor in the modern world.

Prior to examining benchmark case studies, it is useful to

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The amount of labor required to operate data centers is fairly intensive and generally comprising: facility management; technical support and security. The technical component requires specified and experienced skill sets.

Accordingly, some level of staffing among technical and security personnel is often required 24/7.

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note the main structural conditions necessary to build data centers: • Location According to data center site location experts, there are generally six criterion for the location factor: availability, cost and redundancy of power; low/moderate risk of adverse weather or natural disasters; high-quality construction at reasonable cost; existing telecommunications infrastructure; cooling technology/equipment; and, quality of life.

• Capital Expenditure Expenditure for tech/data is quite extensive. The facilities themselves need to be well built and equipped with redundancy. Beyond that, the interior build out and equipment (racks, servers, wiring) is quite costly.

• Land area Dependent on capacity, land area need not be a crippling factor, with more than 50% of data centers globally being less than 50,000 square feet.

• Power Data centers consume an inordinate amount of power, estimated to be 10-50 times the power of an office building with the same floor space.

Accordingly, access and control of a power source creates competitive advantages and one factor that TCI can leverage upon with its local authority.

• Telecommunications Infrastructure This infrastructure largely refers to the fiber network with two key resources including: “dark” (or owned) fiber; and, “lit” (or shared) fiber. A key differential is control and capacity; naturally, the optimal structure is dark fiber which is generally far more costly. Nonetheless, some fiber infrastructure implementation is already underway in Providenciales and Grand Turk (Digicel).

• Labor

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There is little to no cloud/data/tech industry to speak of in TCI currently. Some promising ICT infrastructure has been put in place, including some fiber optic and coaxial on Providenciales and Grand Turk; infrastructure is divergent by island, however, with no broadband whatsoever on the Family Islands. The 2007 National Socio-economic Development Framework featured several ICT-related plans, including a proposed Science Park in South Caicos and a National Science, Technology, and Innovation Policy.

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TCI’s already existing building blocks—its fiber infrastructure and its ICT in Education policies, for example—indicate an opportunity to build momentum in the industry. The threat of potentially investing in ICT infrastructure only to still not attract cloud/data center corporations and/or venture capital cannot be discounted.

Notably, though, the industry is unique in that investment in ICT infrastructure could potentially have positive social and economic ripple effects extending far beyond the cloud/ data/tech industry itself.

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4 . 2 - O B J E C T I V E S + S T R AT E G I E S

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LAND USE + ISLAND PLANNING

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

5.0- LAND USE

LAND USES OVERVIEW The chapter will also include team considerations and recommendations on land use pattern for the future sustainable development of this archipelago.

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The term “Land use” describes the human use of land.

It involves management of land based on human needs, natural setting, ecology and many other aspects.

The sustainable future of Turks and Caicos Islands depends on the proper management of its different uses of land. This chapter provides information on the overall existing land use pattern of the Islands.

[NOTE | ADDITIONAL INFORMATION TO FOLLOW IN SUBSEQUENT SUBMITTAL FOR SECTION 5.0.

RECOMMENDATIONS WILL ALSO INCLUDE SUGGESTED MODIFICATIONS TO EXISTING DOCUMENTS.]

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This chapter discusses all the different Land use categories and permitted uses for them and also general uses and policies applying to each one of these. These uses are directly taken from the TCI Development Manual, the National Parks Ordinance and the Physical Planning Ordinance.

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AIRPORT

INFRASTRUCTURE CIVIC

INFRASTRUCTURE TRANSPORTATION

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COMMERCIAL TOURISM/HOSPITALITY

AGRICULTURE FISHERIES

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INDUSTRIAL

PARK RESERVE

RESIDENTIAL LOW DENSITY B

COMMERCIAL LOCAL

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AGRICULTURE FARMING & FOOD PRODUCTION

INFRASTRUCTURE UTiLITIES

PARK OPEN SPACE

PARK LOCAL

PARK NATIONAL

PARK MARINE

PARK HISTORIC INTEREST

RESIDENTIAL LOW DENSITY A

RESIDENTIAL LOW DENSITY C

RESIDENTIAL MEDIUM DENSITY

RESIDENTIAL HIGH DENSITY

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5.0- LAND USE

AGRICULTURE FARMING & FOOD PRODUCTION

PERMITTED USES

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the land.

A detached dwelling house of a size and design compatible with features of the lot.

Such facilities as are necessary to gain safe access to the lot and for parking vehicles within the curtilage of the lot.

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This zone accomodates areas for farming purpose and food production. Currently, the majority of agricultural TCI activities are concentrated in North Caicos.

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As noted in the TCI Development Manual: ● Because of the scarcity of soils with agriculture potential, care will be taken to prevent the alienation of land from agriculture use. ● Land classified as being suitable for cultivation in Development Plans provides a general guide to areas which must normally be preserved for such use. More detailed investigations will be carried out to determine soil suitability and more accurately establish areas to remain in agriculture. ● Measures against the effects of the erosion of the soil are to be incorporated in agricultural

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Agriculture land reserves are designated as areas within which the preservation and protection of arable land takes precedence over all other planning considerations. As noted in the TCI Development Manual, the development mentioned below is permitted in Agriculture land reserves: ● Agriculture ● Semi-permanent structures including greenhouses, that are accessory to the principal agriculture use of land may be approved, provided such structures are directly associated with the agriculture use of

GENERAL USES/POLICIES

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and which may be considered desirable to ensure a proper balance in the natural ecology of the area; but no building or other development shall be permitted except in accordance with the conditions of a grant of development permission made by the Governor and such grant shall only be made for a building or other development which is required for one of the aforesaid uses which are permissible in a nature reserve.

According to the Physical Planning Ordinance: ● A “commercial development” will be not used for any Agricultural purpose

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subdivision design and subsequent use of the land.

Specific measures which may be employed include: the design of lots so that erosion control can be carried out on individual lots, and use of physical and biological barriers such as terraces, verge and plots of grass or other plants. ● Agriculture (tree crops) may be permitted as long as it is not detrimental to the area by reason of scale of development in a water conservation areas ● Agriculture improvement scheme - According to TCI development manual, for projects falling within certain categories where the impact on the environment and/or on the economy of the TCI may be affected, such as - agriculture improvement scheme, the Director of planning will require environmental impact or economic feasibility study to be made.

As noted in the National Parks Ordinance: ● An area which is designated as a nature reserve may be used for agricultural, arboricultural, piscicultural, sporting and recreational purposes, subject to such restrictions as may be prescribed

NPSDP RECOMMENDATIONS

NPSDP recommendation information forthcoming.

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Source: Adobe Stock image

Source: Adobe Stock image TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 119

5.0- LAND USE

AGRICULTURE FISHERIES GENERAL USES/POLICIES

PERMITTED USES

As mentioned in the TCI Development Manual and the National Park Ordinance, the genral uses and policies are: ● An important aspect of fisheries management will be the determination and reduction of the potential conflict which may arise from tourism activities, such as diving, shell collecting, reef walking and fishing. ● In order to maximize continuing productivity of the Islands’ shelf fisheries, it will become necessary to eventually incorporate reefs into National Parks with strict control on uses of the reefs. The Fisheries Department and the Planning Department will agree on the mutual compatible best use of those marine parks. Special considerations will be given to the following

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Fisheries represent an important livelihood for TCIslanders. This industry has great scope to grow and boost the economy. There are designated areas for fisheries.

The Fisheries Protection Regulations spell out details for regulating fishery activities, including various kinds of licenses, fishery methods, legal size of catches etc.

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As mentioned in TCI Development Manual, permitted uses include: Commercial Fishing Sports fishing in controlled and designated area Non-commercial recreational fishing in designated areas of national park and reserve

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Special use areas will be determined in some marine parks where certain uses will

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NPSDP RECOMMENDATIONS

NPSDP recommendation information forthcoming.

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be controlled, for example the collection of coral and shells in specified areas, diving, etc.

Sport fishing activities will be controlled by designating areas where it will be permitted.

Proposals to process sewage and other waste will be subject to rigorous environmental appraisal in anticipation of potentially adverse effects on the export of fishery products

Source: Adobe Stock image TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 121

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AIRPORT GENERAL USES/POLICIES As noted in the TCI Development Manual and the Physical Planning Ordinance: ● Development seeks to designate areas for aircraft safety which should not be developed. ● During Satelite receiving system erection, developers need to be aware of civil avaiation legislation. Because it may affect construction of structures which may create impact on air navigation and aircraft ● In considering any application for a grant of development permission to display an advertisement, the Board shall pay attention to, whether the display of any advertisement will obscure or hinder the sight or interpretation of any public sign or advertisement concerned with the safe use of airport.

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Airports are important transit nodes for anyone coming in and out of the archipelagos by air. Many of the islands have access only through air and water, therefore assuring the best use and development of airport is necessary for a good island connection.

NPSDP RECOMMENDATIONS

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PERMITTED USES As noted in the Physical Planning ordinance ● Erection, construction, maintenance, improvement or other alteration of minor structure, information kiosks, street furniture, refuse tins, street lighting, signs and other installations, in connection with airport safety can be carried out by government or other public authorities and utilities.

NPSDP recommendation information forthcoming.

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COMMERCIAL LOCAL

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Commercial Development refers to any development which is not for private residential (single or multifamily) or agricultural purposes.

Commercial developments are typically concentrated in neighborhoods, communities and town centers, in ascending order of development density. The type and density of commercial use is typically dependent on the size of the development, but local commercial uses are typically of a smaller scale than Tourism/Hospitality commercial uses.

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PERMITTED USES

retail business wherein the primary purpose is the selling of goods or services, which include the following but is not limited to:  Personal Services (laundry, dry cleaning, hairdresser, shoe repairing etc.).  Sale of convenience goods (food, drugs, clothes, hardware, merchandise, apparel, furniture, appliances, and sundries) Restaurant Funeral parlor Garage service station Office, bank Betting shop Restaurant or other place for the sale of prepared food, hotel Sale of intoxicating liquors for consumption on the premises Lumber yard, or premises for sale of building material, or motor vehicle parts or accessories

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As noted in the TCI Development Manual and the Physical Planning Ordinance, permitted uses in Local Commercial Areas include: ● Any shop which carries on of any retail trade or

Source: NPSDP Consultant Team 124 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

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As noted in the Physical Planning Ordinance, the following uses are prohibited: ● Any person who proposes to submit an application for the grant of development permission for a commercial or industrial development in respect of land situated in a conservation area shall, prior to submission of such application, have prepared at his own expense an environmental impact statement on the proposed development and its likely effect on the conservation area concerned. For more detailed information, refer to Section 63. ● No application for a grant of development permission for a commercial or industrial development in a conservation area shall be considered until not less than twenty-eight days have expired after the relevant impact statement has been delivered to the Director in conformity with the provisions of subsection

Other miscellaneous considerations are as follows:  Regarding building materials, the use of timber framed exterior walls is restricted for commercial construction in low density areas a. The important and use of trailers b. c.

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As noted in the TCI Development Manual, the following are Commercial Development Standards:  60% Site Coverage  5 floors are permissible to a maximum of 60ft  7 storeys to a maximum of 90ft  The minimum setback is 30ft from the front of development, measured from the parcel boundary  The side setbacks are 30ft for buildings over 5 floors, 15 ft for buildings less than 5 floors.  The rear setback is 15 feet for general commercial developments and 20ft for residential commercial developments.

Requirements for environmental impact assessments Signs may be externally illuminated by spotlights but only in commercial areas The display of advertisements without permission is allowed in commercial areas only if they are advertisements of a temporary nature.

Safe sanitary and efficient garbage disposal facilities in commercial areas should be installed and garbage collection and disposal should be done privately and on a collective basis, where possible.

NPSDP RECOMMENDATIONS ●

NPSDP recommendation information forthcoming.

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Construction of sea protection works

Source: NPSDP Consultant Team

Source: NPSDP Consultant Team TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 125

5.0- LAND USE

COMMERCIAL ● ● ●

TOURISM / HOSPITALITY

PERMITTED USES

GENERAL USES/POLICIES

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Tourism/Hospitality refers to large scale commercial uses of areas which primarily accommodate activities related to tourism. These developments are important for Turks and Caicos as currently its economy is heavily dependent on the tourism industry.

Marina Resorts Offices

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As noted in the TCI development manial, permitted uses for Tourism/Hospitality Areas include: ● Hotels  A hotel is considered Any building containing ten or more rooms intended or designed to be used or which are used, rented or hired out to be occupied, or which are occupied for sleeping purposes by paying guests.

As noted in the TCI Development Manual, a hotel or condominium development must incorporate the following principles: ● It blends with its surroundings by reason of its siting, design, scale, height and landscaping ● It has no adverse effect upon the environment by reason of noise, traffic congestion or by destroying features of interest in the area. ● Hotels should have a lot area of minimum of one acre for 25 bedrooms or as may be decided by the Board in accordance with section 34 of the Physical Planning Ordinance. ● Car parking standards should comply with those in the “Schedule of Vehicle Parking Requirements Within Site Boundaries” and access points should be so sited as to minimize turning movements across

Source: NPSDP Consultant Team 126 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

traffic.

Acceptable arrangements must be made for potable water supplies and for sewage disposal.

The Director and the Ministry of Health should be consulted to ensure that the arrangements proposed are satisfactory.

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Guidelines as noted in TCI Development Manual, for Multiple Housing category which also applies to hotels:  Each dwelling unit in horizontal multiple housing shall have one yard which serves as a private outdoor living area. This yard is normally associated with the living room, but to allow flexibility in design, the private outdoor living area may alternatively be located adjacent to a dining room, study, lounge or a kitchen which is combined with one of the above uses. A privacy zone should normally be not less than 15 feet deep. Refer to TCI Building Code 2014 Section 502.10.  The minimum distance between three storey buildings is 35 feet if there are windows on the facing elevations. If there are no windows on those elevations the minimum distance should be 25 feet, with the condition that there should be a distance of 70 feet to the next two or three storey building from its opposite back (or front) elevation. For

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A certificate of approval shall be required for the following applications relating to Hotels:  Applications for permission to erect or convert an existing building into an hotel of more than ten guest bedrooms;  Applications for permission to increase the provision of sleeping accommodation for guests in an hotel of more than ten bedrooms

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Parking Requirements for Hotels:  The minimum number of parking spaces required for hotels is 1 for each 3 guest bedroom, plus 1 for each 50 square feet of public dining room area.

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Source: NPSDP Consultant Team TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 127

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buildings in excess of three storeys, the minimum distance between buildings should be 40 feet.  As noted in the TCI Development Manual, proposed Marina developments must incorporate the following principles and steps:  Before any marina development is undertaken, engineering and economic feasibility studies and environmental impact assessments must be conducted  Application for development permission for the expansion of existing marinas, including new moorings or additional docking facilities, temporary or permanent, and the construction of additional rooms in adjacent hotels should be accompanied by an environmental impact statement and a management plan which ensures a high level of water quality maintenance.  Setbacks of developments required for the maintenance and operation of the marina facility must be negotiated on a case by case basis with Director. The guiding principle is that the locations of the buildings must not affect the use of the waterway by other users and that the environmental and social amenity of the development must be maintained.  All marinas will be required to provide facilities for the collection and disposal of sanitary waste from boat holding areas.

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purposes. A minimum of 0.5 acres shall be provided around the marina basin for Government for Customs and Police facilities.

Where required by the Director of Planning, a separate planning application using the FORM DOP 6 shall be submitted for consideration and determination for combination and subdivision of existing parcels to create the new parcels and marina as per the outline planning application.

The edges of the marina basin shall be of reinforced concrete construction.

A “marina operations and management plan”, which must include but not limited to measures to be taken in the event of a fire or oil spill shall be submitted to the Department of Planning for consideration and determination An occupancy certificate will not be issued for use of the Marina until all necessary developments are fully completed and facilities installed to the satisfaction of the Directors of Planning, and Environment & Coastal Resources and the Chief Environmental Health Officer.

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NPSDP RECOMMENDATIONS NPSDP recommendation information forthcoming.

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Regarding the creation of Marina basins, As noted in the TCI Development Manual, the regulations are as follows: 

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Operation of the marina basin shall not commence until all ancillary developments, including those specified in condition 1 of this note have been approved by the Physical Planning Board and implemented.

An application for subdivision of the land shall be submitted separately for consideration and determination. A minimum of ten (10) percent of the total land area to be subdivided shall be reserved for amenity and recreational

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INFRASTRUCTURE CIVIC ●

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Civic infrastructures are developments which are nonresidential and accommodate facilities that are important to community and residents.

These developments are accessible to people, such as community centers, schools etc.

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PERMITTED USES

lot size, proximity to residential dwellings, traffic and parking requirements, level of noise transmission and the external appearance of the structure.

Health Facilities - The Ministry of Health has responsibility for planning of health services.

Usually the minimum lot area is ½ an acre for a Health Clinic. If maternity care is considered, the requirement is one acre. Clinics should be located within the service centre of settlements and in proximity to other public facilities.

Other Public facilities  Sites should be reserved for public uses in large scale residential development. Such uses should be related to the community centre and can be planned to make partial use of commercial parking facilities where these exist.  In small scale development where the need for such community facilities exists, consideration should be given to the provision of multipurpose buildings to house these various activities.

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As noted in the TCI Development Manual, Permitted uses for civic infrastructure areas include: ● Schools, health clinics, places of workshop, Government banks, community centres, required by the community.

Development and infrastructure projects may be permitted on sites containing archaeologica l resources.

GENERAL USES/POLICIES

NPSDP RECOMMENDATIONS ●

NPSDP recommendation information forthcoming.

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As noted in the TCI Development Manual ● Schools - A primary school should be accessible from all sections of the development. However, a primary school should not front on a major thoroughfare because this would expose the children to hazards of heavy traffic and the school to traffic noises.

For schools, the minimum required area is as follow:  High school: 7 acres of fairly level ground to include football field, running track etc., and accommodation for teachers.  Primary school: 3-5 acres on fairly level ground including a playing field and accommodation for teachers.

The Department of Education recommends the locations for school sites and their sizes in relation to population within their catchment areas. The applicant should check with the Ministry at the design stage to determine the need for a private school, the preferred location and the size of the school. ● Churches - Churches may be located in most areas depending on their acceptability by the community.

Each application will be considered on its own merit.

Factors affecting development decisions will include

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INFRASTRUCTURE traffic on a particular element is compatible with adjacent land uses. For example, through traffic should be catered for on main or secondary roads, and access streets should be arranged so that through traffic is deterred from using them. The following road layouts are generally designed for access for subdivisions.

Transportation accomodates important uses that urban development depends on such as roads and supporting infrastructure, needed for people to move to places and transporting goods.

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As noted in TCI Development Manual, The permitted uses withing the Transportation Category are: ● Roads ● Parking ● Watercourses GENERAL USES/POLICIES

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As noted in the TCI Development Manual, ● The following are classifications of roads. Roads are classified into four main categories for which the minimum dimensions are:  Main Roads: These are the main roads linking settlements; a minimum 75 ft reservation required.  Secondary Roads: These are main roads within a resident area, and would normally be used for public transportation or as heavily used traffic routes through residential areas; a minimum 50 ft reservation is required.  Local Roads: Provide plot access and vehicular circulation between or for access to commercial premises; a minimum 30 ft reservation required is required.  Service Roads: Provide direct access to individual plots within a residential area or for access to commercial premises; a minimum 30 ft reservation is required. ● These reserve widths are minimums and do not include the space needed for side slopes in hilly terrain, or space for drainage ditches which may be required to accommodate storm water from the hilly terrain. 

The hierarchy of streets should ensure that

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Roads systems may utilize other forms of layout including cul-de-sac, loop roads and P-loops. In the use of these access road forms, the following factors should be considered:  When a cul-de-sac is used in residential development it should be provided with a paved turning circle of sufficient width to facilitate easy access and the turning of not only cars but trucks and other heavy vehicles.

The recommended minimum radius is 33 ft.  The maximum length of a cul-de-sac should be 350 ft to the turning circle. This distance may, however, be increased to 600 ft if an emergency vehicular access and pedestrian walkway of a minimum width of 12 ft 6 inches is provided from the turning circle of a cul-desac giving direct access to an adjacent road.

A cul- de-sac should not be located as a direct extension of a local road.  P-loops which are defined as loop roads from a single access point, should have an entrance leg not exceeding 700 ft and should have an emergency vehicular access way with a minimum width of 12 feet 6 inches from the loop giving direct access to an adjacent road. The loop should have a road length not exceeding 1,400 ft.

Considerable problems have occurred where accesses have been created in an “ad hoc” fashion causing substantial damage to the main road. The following standards apply where access roads and driveways are being created.  All accesses to be properly constructed to a minimum width of 18 feet with well compacted fill and bitumen surfaced. Minimum turning radius to be 20 feet.  Minimum visibility from the access to be 300

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Provisions should be made within the boundaries of the site of all new and extended buildings for the parking of customers’ vehicles in accordance with the standards set out in below:  Special consideration can be given to dual use of parking areas where the uses alternate in terms of time scale.  Where the use of any building is not specifically mentioned in the schedule or more than one use is involved, the Board shall determine the parking provisions.  For each car a standard of approximately 300 sq ft of parking site area 9inclusive of driveways) should be made.  The areas in which parking spaces are provided should be of practical shapes which allow for the parking and maneuvering of vehicles, which must leave in a forward direction. Narrow and obstructed spaces, however large in area, are of no value for this purpose.

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Provisions should also be made within the site boundaries for loading of trucks and goods vehicles, in accordance with the standard set out in the schedule. The Board may however waive this requirement when the building area is too small, the frontage of the site is short and service is not possible from the rear.

Parking shall be provided with concrete kerbs and grassed areas and be clearly defined.

The divisions of the parking spaces shall be painted with white or yellow flourscent paint.

All parking and vehicular access shall be constructed of well compacted fill (where necessary) and asphalt surface.

The space to be provided for maneuvering of vehicles should not be less than 18 ft.

Lighting shall be provided and strategically located in parking areas.

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feet in both directions along the main road (safe stopping distance for a vehicle travelling at 40 mph).

The standards to be used in the construction of driveways for single car access to private dwellings must be discussed with the Director before construction of the driveway.

NPSDP RECOMMENDATIONS NPSDP recommendation information forthcoming.

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Source: NPSDP Consultant Team TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 133

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INFRASTRUCTURE UTILITIES 

PERMITTED USES

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Utilities refer to areas that accomodate physical services that are necessary in any kind of settlement. This excludes Roads.

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Permitted uses in Infrastructure (Utilities) areas include: ● Electricity ● Telephone ● Water Supply ● Sewage

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Code.

The applicant for development permission is required to satisfy the Board that: Adequate provision has been made for the supply of electricity and telephones, where service is available.

Poles will be sited so as to allow easy means of road improvement and not obstruct pedestrian movement.

Ancillary utility services are located in such a way that they do not obstruct sidewalks.

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General Considerations for Telecommunications include:  Telecommunication services in the country are provided by Cable, Wireless (West Indies Ltd.), Digicel and Islandcom Telecommunications in addition to LIME ( Cable and wireless. The company has branches and provides services on each of the inhabited Islands. The services provided are local and international telephone services as well as cable, telefax and telex facilities.  The installation of all telecommunication services including cable TV must be carried out in accordance with the procedures of the supply companies involved

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Power supply (Fortis)  As mentioned previously Fortis is the sole provider of electricity in all the Islands.Fortis carried out significant upgrades to the grid on

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As noted in TCI Development Manual ● General considerations for utilities include:  Since the availability of utility services is a major factor in the consideration of development proposals, it is responsibility of the applicant to make proper and adequate arrangements with the utility organizations for the provision of these services where applicable.  Where it is feasible and desirable, all electricity, telecommunication, television and other service lines, cables and pipes should be laid underground to improve visual amenities and safety. They should be laid out in such a manner as not to obstruct the planting of trees. Reference must be made to the Building Regulations. (Building Code and Building Guidelines)  In the laying of such service facilities, road verges, pedestrian ways and median strips should be utilized so as to minimize disturbance to vehicular traffic flows for repair and maintenance purposes. ● General Considerations for electricity include:  Fortis TCI is the sole electricity provider,  All plans for electricity connections must be in accordance with the requirements of the relevant utility company and in accordance with the Turks and Caicos Islands Building

General Considerations for Water Supply include:  The developer is responsible for providing an adequate and potable water supply too his development. All water catchment and storage equipment must be to be Water and Sewerage Ordinance. The Water Department also provides technical services in planning and design of water development projects.  Developers must be aware of the Water and Sewerage Ordinance which provided for (inter alia): a. the Water and Sewerage Board, b. the licensing of the abstraction of water, c. the appointment and regulation of public water undertakers, and d. the water pollution regulations.

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NPSDP RECOMMENDATIONS ●

NPSDP recommendation information forthcoming.

Telecomunications (Digicel and Flow)  Post Irma Digicel rebuilt their network in Providenciales and included converting

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large sections of their network to fiber-optic lines. This work was carried out in 2018/9 and provided for a much better service than was previously provided. All new fiber-optic lines were buried in underground ducts. At present,In other Islands they are providing service via microwave signal.

Flow is currently providing service in Providenciales and Grand Turk via fiber optics.

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Providenciales, Grand Turk and South Caicos before and after Irma.

They provided high voltage power through powerful submarine cable to North and Middle Caicos. They built a small generator to supply power in Salt Cay. On an ongoing basis, Fortis have and continue to upgrade the grid and both existing and new sub-stations are being planned.

All buildings and structures under Fortis ownership and within the compound in Providenciales have been designed as “Essential Buildings” and are very resilient and for what it’s worth performed very well during Irma.

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INFRASTRUCTURE INDUSTRIAL

PERMITTED USES

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According to the Physical Planning Ordinance, “industrial development” means the development of land for the manufacture or partial manufacture of goods, articles or substances of any kind, the repair of goods or articles or the assembly of manufactured goods or the turning into manufactured goods of articles which are partially manufactured or of substances in their natural condition.

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Permitted uses for Industrial Areas include: ● Development of land for the manufacture or partial manufacture of goods ● Articles or substances of any kind ● The repair of goods or articles or the assembly of manufactured goods ● The turning into manufactured goods of articles which are partially manufactured or of substances in their natural condition

GENERAL USES/POLICIES As noted in the TCI Development Manual ● Vechiular parking requirements for industrial uses is 1 for each 5,000 sq.ft of building floor area.

The following should be considered for industrial use sites: ● In selecting sites for industrial development the following factors should be considered:  Land which is reasonably level, flood free, well – drained and capable of bearing heavy loads  Accessibility to transportation facilities – main roads, airports and ports, (if required)  Location shall be in accordance with the Land Use Zoning Plan  Served by, or capable of being provided with all utilities  Compatibility with residential and other neighbors. ● Light industries (those that not generate, noise, traffic, fumes or smell) may be located in

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areas shown in the Land Use Zoning Planning.

When permission is given for a light industrial establishment to be located in residential areas, the following conditions will be imposed on granting of development:  Restricting the type of machinery to be used or prohibiting operational operations after a certain hour in the evenings and at work ends.  Prohibiting the storage of materials off the building site  Prohibiting the sale of goods outside of the building  Protecting the character of the area.

Heavy and noxious industries, those which generate noise, fumes, odors, dust etc. will only be allowed to locate in areas demarcated for heavy industrial development. Generally they will not be located near residential areas.

Warehousing and storage will be located only in areas zoned for industrial purposes.

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Industrial development in conservation areas (As noted in the Physical Planning Ordinance Section 63) should consider the following: ● Any person who proposes to submit an application for the grant of development permission for a industrial development in respect of land situated in a conservation area shall, prior to submission of such application, have prepared at his own expense an environmental impact statement on the proposed development and its likely effect on the conservation area concerned. Such impact statement shall be prepared by a person approved by the Director who, before giving his approval, shall satisfy himself that the person concerned has appropriate competence, integrity and experience.

A copy of the impact statement when completed shall be sent to the Director by the applicant for development permission either before or at the same time as the application is submitted. ● No application for a grant of development permission for a industrial development in a conservation area shall be considered until not less than twenty-eight days have expired after the relevant impact statement has been delivered to the Director in conformity with the provisions of

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subsection (1).

The Director shall prepare a report on any application for development permission for industrial purposes in respect of land in a conservation area, and such report shall take into account the impact statement prepared in respect of the proposed development and shall be appended to the application when it is sent to the Board.

discharge of the effluent must be approved by the Director in consultation with the Chief Environmental Health Officer. The Board may require that the applicant submit an environmental impact assessment in accordance with Section 7 of this Manual before giving detailed consideration to the application.

Where feasible and desirable industrial operators are urged to co-operate in developing joint or common facilities for partial or complete treatment of waste water as required by the relevant authorities.

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The following are considerations involving industrial wastewater (As noted in the TCI Development Manual): ● Industrial waste water must be treated partially or fully before discharge. The treatment and mode of

NPSDP RECOMMENDATIONS

NPSDP recommendation information forthcoming.

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Source: Adobe Stock image TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 139

5.0- LAND USE

PARK OPEN SPACE 

PERMITTED USES

GENERAL USES/POLICIES

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According to the TCI Development Manual, this category includes “development of land so that it remains open to the atmosphere and wholly or substantially preserved in its natural state, including but limited to parkland, arable land, woodland, water conservation areas and beach land”

area, and the Board being satisfied that the specific parcel of land is not required wholly for the open space needs of the nation.

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As noted in the TCI Development Manual: ● Recreation activities, Beach activities, playground etc ● Open land and recreational development subject to:  there being sufficient land for subdivision for residential purposes without detriment to the character of the land within the open space

As noted in the TCI Development Manual: ● The retention of open space areas shall be encouraged in order to:  Maintain a balance between developed and undeveloped areas  Create continuous belts of open land  Provide sufficient open space for the needs of the community ● In approving an application for open land or recreational development, the Board shall be satisfied that:  No significant alteration to the existing topography occurs;  All significant natural features, stands of trees and mature vegetation are preserved

Source: Adobe Stock image 140 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

and protected; With respect to structures associated with open land or recreational development:  The proposed structure is necessary to the principal open land or recreational use;  The proposed structure cannot be located elsewhere.

All details of planning of accessory structures shall be carried out to the approval of the Board. The following conditions should be observed:  The maximum site coverage shall not exceed 5%, and  The maximum height shall not exceed 14 feet from the ground to the line of the eaves.

In approving an application for residential development, the Board shall be satisfied that:  The development is sited and designed in a manner that minimizes the impact on the topography of the land;  All significant natural features, mature trees and vegetation are preserved;  The development is designed and landscaped in a manner that minimizes visual impact as viewed from main roads and other public places; and that  the maximum height of the buildings does not exceed two storeys or 25ft without the permission of the Board

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As noted in Section 60 (i) of the Physical Planning Ordinance provides the legal basis for the declaration of public areas used for recreational purposes. ● Where it appears to the Governor, that it is desirable that the public should have access to any land for open air, recreation and perambulation he may:  In the case of Crown Land, declare such land in the Gazette;  Negotiate an agreement for such access in all other cases;  Where negotiation is not possible, confer public rights of access on the land by notice in the Gazette, but in such case the owner or tenant is entitled to compensation if diminution in the value of his interest is established.

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Opening space areas or public access areas are designated as areas within which the principal planning considerations should be:  The preservation of open space and natural beauty  The maintenance of buffer areas between developed areas  The provision of land for recreation.

Plans for the subdivision of land into more than six (6) lots must show than ten percent of the area of the land to be subdivided will be devoted to open space which shall be used as public area for recreational and landscaping purposes.

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NPSDP RECOMMENDATIONS ●

NPSDP recommendation information forthcoming.

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 141

5.0- LAND USE

PARK Local parks are generally spaces allocated in settlements where people of the nearby communities can use it for recreational purpose, gathering, playing etc. These parks are not meant for any development unless permitted by the Authority.

PERMITTED USES

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LOCAL

According to the TCI Development Manual: ● Recreational activities, playgrounds and sports fields

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GENERAL USES

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As noted in the TCI Development Manual: ● In multi-family developments, space must be reserved on site for landscaping and for recreational purposes, in addition to areas reserved for car parking and drive ways etc. This type of space is referred to as the amenity area and may also include swimming pools, tennis courts and other areas within the site, which if approved as such by the Board, may be used for general recreational purposes. ● In single family detached development,s space such as parks, playgrounds and sports fields are needed as part of the public areas. ● Reclaiming land from the sea has been carried out in many states mainly to provide valuable land for development. The land reclaimed can been purposed for a variety of uses, inlcuding recreation parks etc.

NPSDP RECOMMENDATIONS ●

NPSDP recommendation information forthcoming.

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Source: NPSDP Consultant team

Source: Adobe Stock image TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 143

5.0- LAND USE

PARK NATIONAL ● ● ●

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National parks cover areas of natural beauty within archipelago. National park areas are designated under the National Parks Ordinance in order to preserve protect, maintain and enhance the environmental, cultural and heritage aspects of the built and natural environments, which are of special significance to the community.

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As noted in the National Park Ordinance: ● Open to members of the public for recreational use, including camping, fishing and sailing ● Governor may make a grant of development permission for the erection of buildings, the construction of roads, marinas and such other development as may considered desirable for public enjoyment or suitable to that area’s natural setting. Provided that in considering whether or not any such development as is mentioned in this para-graph as being permissible shall be authorised in any particular case, the paramount consideration shall be to limit such development to the minimum consistent with the reasonable access to and enjoyment of the area by members of the public ● Bathing, swimming, snorkelling and scuba diving other than from a vessel, beach games and other ancillary pursuits are permitted in designated swimming zones. All vessels are prohibited except those who are rescue, fisheries or DOE vessels. ● Sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, kayaking, swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving from a vessel and other ancillary activities are permitted in designated aqua sports zone ● The training of persons for scuba diving or snorkeling is permitted in special training zones ● The use of water skis and aqua slide equipment for sport, and the transit of all vessels including

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engineless vessels is permitted in water-ski zones not less than 100 yards from a shoreline Anchoring zones where the anchoring of vessels greater than 60 feet in length is permitted; Camping is permitted only in camping zones Parking zones for the purpose of parking vehicles while in the proximity of a national park, nature reserve or area of historical interest; entry right of ways for the purpose of providing controlled access to a national park, nature reserve or area of historical interest; Non commercial recreational fishing is permitted in designated fishing zones( shoreline or pier or jetties). Light tackle needs to be used of not n With some special permission dive or charter vessel can be permitted; Except swimming zones and with special license. They can only anchor in clear sandy bottom and has to pay fees. Vessel cannot exceed 5mph speed.

GENERAL USES/POLICIES As noted in the TCI Development Manual and the National Park Ordinance: ● In order to maximize the continuing productivity of the Islands’ shelf fisheries, it will become necessary to eventually incorporate reefs into National Parks with strict control on uses of the reefs ● Recreational development can be allowed, if not detrimental to the surrounding area by reason of the scale of the activity, excessive noise or the intensity of traffic generated. ● In approving an application for recreational development, the Physical Planning Board shall be satisfied that the nature of the activity, accessibility and the scale of development are appropriate for the site ● The Board will decide about any development taking place on site based on the size, suitability to activities, off-street parking and access, and whether it takes minimum space that does not hinder any natural setting of the park. ● National Parks fall under conservation areas Also, ● If the Governor/Authority considers that any National Park can be subjected to pollution,

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living or dead and associated marine plant and animal life; f.

The anchoring of vessels greater than 60 feet in length other than in an anchoring zone; g. Jet skis and hovercraft; h. Water skiing, except in a water-ski zone; i.

The dumping of refuse, abandoned vehicles, toxic or other wastes, bilges, oil and other petroleum products, pesti-cides and other items harmful to animals or plants, or unsightly items; j.

The driving or riding of motor vehicles and bicycles other than on public roads declared under the Road Traffic Ordinance or in a parking zone; k. Car parking except in a parking zone; l. the making of fires, other than in a portable stove or grill; m. Camping except in a camping zone or with the prior writ-ten approval of the Director;

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harmful effects or influence, they can impose restrictions on development or on depositing waste or any harmful products.

Any kind of development in a restricted zone without permission will be prohibited by the National Park Ordinance regulations. Any person that fails to comply with the restrictions imposed by the National Park Authority will face charges and punishment.

During emergencies, the Authority can modify/ cancel these restrictions.

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As noted in the National Park Ordinance ● the following are prohibited in any national park a. The taking of any animal or plant by any method on land or at sea, except to the extent permitted in any fishing zone; b. The taking of any artifact; c. The destruction of, or damage or injury to, any animal or plant; d. The removal of sand, rock, coral, coral-rag or any calcare-ous substance; e. Anchor damage to coral reef structures

Source: NPSDP Consultant team TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 145

5.0- LAND USE

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Erecting any structure unless authorized by the Director of Planning; o. Playing a game to the discomfort of other persons; p. Playing any musical instrument, radio, cassette player, re-cord player, television or other item which produces or reproduces music, to the discomfort of other persons; q. Operating a vessel in excess of 15 miles per hour unless within an aquatic sports or water-ski zone. (Inserted by N. 18 of 1994) The Director may grant a written permit to scientists to collect:  Animal and plant specimens within a national park, nature reserve, sanctuary or area of historical interest;  Artifacts from a national park, nature reserve or area of historical interest;

As noted in the National Park Ordinance, “in any case in which private land is included in any area which has been declared to be a national park, a nature reserve, a sanctuary or an area of historical interest and the Governor does not consider that it is necessary for the purpose to which the declaration relates to acquire such land under the Land Acquisition Ordinance, any person entitled to any interest therein shall be entitled to receive compensation from the Government for the diminution, if any, in the value of his interest consequential upon any restrictions imposed on his use of the land by reason of such declaration. If agreement cannot be reached between the Government and the party concerned as to whether or not any compensation is payable, or as to the amount thereof, the matter shall be referred to arbitration under the provisions of the Arbitration Ordinance.”

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NPSDP RECOMMENDATIONS NPSDP recommendation information forthcoming.

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5.0- LAND USE

PARK RESERVE ●

PERMITTED USES

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Nature reserve parks accomodate areas of high natural productivity, ecological value with presence of unique flora and fauna within archipelago. Nature reserve park areas are designated under the National Parks Ordinance in order to preserve protect, maintain and enhance the environmental, cultural and heritage aspects of the built and natural environments, which are of special significance to the community.

to ensure a proper balance in the natural ecology of the area Recreational and open land development.

Recreational development shall not be detrimental to the surrounding area by reason of the scale of the recreational activity.

Bathing, swimming, snorkelling and scuba diving other than from a vessel, beach games and other ancillary pursuits are permitted in designated swimming zones. all vessels are prohibited except those who are rescue, fisheries or DOE vessels.

Sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, kayaking, swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving from a vessel and other ancillary activities are permitted in designated aqua sports zone The training of persons for scuba diving or snorkeling is permitted in Training zones The use of water skis and aqua slide equipment for sport, and the transit of all vessels including engineless vessels is permitted in water-ski zones not less than 100 yards from a shoreline Anchoring zones where the anchoring of vessels

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As noted in the National Park Ordinance: ● Nature reserves may be used for agricultural, arboricultural, piscicultural, sporting and recreational purposes, subject to such restrictions as may be prescribed and which may be considered desirable

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greater than 60 feet in length is permitted; Camping is permitted only in camping zones parking zones for the purpose of parking vehicles while in the proximity of a national park, nature reserve or area of historical interest; entry right of ways for the purpose of providing controlled access to a national park, nature reserve or area of historical interest; Non commercial recreational fishing is permitted in designated fishing zones( shoreline or pier or jetties).

Light tackle needs to be used of not n With some special permission dive or charter vessel can be permitted; Except swimming zones and with special license. They can only anchor in clear sandy bottom and has to pay fees. Vessel cannot exceed 5mph speed.

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animal and plant specimens within a national park, nature reserve, sanctuary or area of historical interest; artifacts from a national park, nature reserve or area of historical interest;

Also, ● If governor/authority feels any Nature reserve can be subjected to pollution, harmful effects or influence they can impose restriction on development, depositing waste or any harmful product. ● Any kind of development in restricted zone without permission will be prohibited by Nature Reserve ordinance regulations. Any person fails to comply the restrictions within Nature Reserve imposed by authority will face charges and punishment.

As noted in the National Park Ordinance: ● In any case in which private land is included in any area which has been declared to be a national park, a nature reserve, a sanctuary or an area of historical interest and the Governor does not consider that it is necessary for the purpose to which the declaration relates to acquire such land under the Land Acquisition Ordinance, any person entitled to any interest therein shall be entitled to receive compensation from the Government for the diminution, if any, in the value of his interest consequential upon any restrictions imposed on his use of the land by reason of such declaration. If agreement cannot be reached between the Government and the party concerned as to whether or not any compensation is payable, or as to the amount thereof, the matter shall be referred to arbitration under the provisions of the Arbi-tration Ordinance. ● The following are prohibited in any National Reserve: a. The taking of any animal or plant by any method on land or at sea, except to the extent permitted in any fishing zone; b. The taking of any artifact; c. The removal of sand, rock, coral, coral-rag or any calcare-ous substance; d. Anchor damage to coral reef structures living or dead and associated marine plant and animal life; e. The anchoring of vessels greater than 60 feet in length other than in an anchoring

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As noted in the TCI Development Manual and the National Park Ordinance: ● Nature Reserve fall under conservation areas ● Nature reserve can be established for these reasons  Maintenance of game species for hunting under license during a particular season,  Regulation of a fishery or other resources,  Control of coral collection to maintain a balance with the natural production of coral. ● The entire length of the historic footpath Crossing Place Road and its surrounding area of outstanding natural beauty is worthy of protection. It is for this reason that the entire area of land to the north from the junction of the Middle Caicos Main Road directly to the landing shall be protected. This entire area is given the status of “Nature Reserve’, in addition to those already listed under the provisions of the National Parks Ordinance ● No building or other development shall be permitted except in accordance with the conditions of a grant of development permission made by the Governor and such grant shall only be made for a building or other development which is required for one of the aforesaid uses which are permissible in a nature reserve. ● the Director may grant a written permit to scientists to collect–

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 149

5.0- LAND USE

zone; Water skiing, jet skis or hovercraft; The dumping of refuse, abandoned vehicles, toxic or other wastes, bilges, oil and other petroleum products, pesti-cides and other items harmful to animals or plants, or un-sightly items; h. The driving or riding of motor vehicles and bicycles other than on public roads declared under the Road Traffic Ordinance or in a parking zone; i.

Car parking except in a parking zone; j.

The making of fires, other than in a portable stove or grill; k. Camping except in a camping zone or with the prior writ-ten approval of the Director; l.

Erecting any structure unless authorised by the Director of Planning; m. Playing a game to the discomfort of other persons; n. Playing any musical instrument, radio, cassette player, record player, television or other item which produces or reproduces music, to the discomfort of other persons.

Sanctuary: As noted in the National Park Ordinance, “the declaration of an area as a sanctuary shall be made primarily for the purpose of the protection of the natural ecology, or of any particular form of living organism (including any marine life), in the area, and the avoidance of disturbance of the area by human beings, either at any time or at particular times according to the circumstances and the form of life which it is desired to protect. Entry into a sanctuary shall not be permitted except in accordance with any regulations made in respect of that sanctuary and no person shall carry out any development in a sanctuary.

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The following are prohibited within all sanctuaries: a. public access unless with the prior written approval of the Director of Environment, Heritage and Parks in form NP1; b. the introduction either temporary or permanent of any domestic animal or any other animal or plant not indige-nous to the site; c. the taking of any animal or plant by any method on land or at sea; d. the taking of any artifact; e. the destruction of, or damage or injury to, any animal or plant; f. the removal of sand, rock, coral, coral-rag or any calcare-ous substance; g. anchor damage to coral reef structures living or dead and associated marine plant and animal life; h. the anchoring of vessels greater than 60 feet in length other than in designated areas; i. water skiing, jet skis or hovercraft; j. the dumping of refuse, abandoned vehicles, toxic or other wastes, bilges, oil and other petroleum products, pesticides and other items harmful to animals or plants, or unsightly items k. erecting any structure unless authorized by the Director of Planning Woodland reserve areas: As noted in the TCI Development Manual, “woodland reserve areas are designated as areas within which the preservation and protection of significant stands of trees, shrubs and vegetation takes precedence over all other planning considerations. The significance of such stands may be due to their species, age, visual importance or importance as a wildlife habitat. The best means of protecting such areas is to prohibit any development that involves the removal of vegetation.”

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NPSDP RECOMMENDATIONS ●

NPSDP recommendation information forthcoming.

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5.0- LAND USE

PARK a.

The Marine Park designation covers area of significant marine habitat. People can access surrounding areas but with certain restrictions in order to protect these habitats of national , cultural and ecological significance.

PERMITTED USES ● ●

Marine life preservation - Marine habitat and flora and fauna, rock formation, natural landform etc Controlled fishing activities in designated areas

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As noted in the National Park Ordinance and TCI development manual, the following are prohibited in any Marine park

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The taking of any animal or plant by any method at sea; b. The removal of sand, rock, coral, coralrag or any calcareous substance; c. Anchor damage to coral reef structures living or dead and associated marine plant and animal life; d. The anchoring of vessels greater than 60 feet in length other than in an anchoring zone; e. Water skiing, jet skis or hovercraft; f.

The dumping of refuse, abandoned vehicles, toxic or other wastes, bilges, oil and other petroleum products, pesticides and other items harmful to animals or plants, or unsightly items; Within this area, the preservation and protection of the natural land form, rock formations and habitats of flora and fauna should take precedence over all other development considerations In order to maximize continuing productivity of

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Source: NPSDP Consultant team 152 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

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Sport fishing activities will be controlled by designating areas where it will be permitted.

Proposals to process sewage and other waste will be subject to rigorous environmental appraisal in anticipation of potentially adverse effects on the export of fishery products

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the Islands’ shelf fisheries, it will become necessary to eventually incorporate reefs into National Parks with strict control on uses of the reefs. The Fisheries Department and the Planning Department will agree on the mutual compatible best use of those marine parks. Special considerations will be given to the following:  Special use areas will be determined in some marine parks where certain uses will be controlled, for example the collection of coral and shells in specified areas, diving, etc.

NPSDP RECOMMENDATIONS

NPSDP recommendation information forthcoming.

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Source: Adobe Stock Image

Source: Adobe Stock Image

Source: NPSDP Consultant team TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 153

5.0- LAND USE

PARK HISTORIC INTEREST

PERMITTED USES

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Historic Interest parks have an area/ object of historic interest and the protection of such building, sites, and historic objects takes precedence over all other planning considerations in areas declared historic sites under the National Parks Ordinance.

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As noted in the National Park Ordinance: ● Historic interest areas may form a part of a national park or nature reserve, therefore pertinent regulations for those categories will be applied in this case as well. ● This type of park will be open and accessible to the public, but in order to protect the area of historic interest, several restrictions may be put in place ● Parking zones for the purpose of parking vehicles while in the proximity of a national park, nature reserve or area of historical interest; ● Entry right of ways for the purpose of providing controlled access to the area of historical interest GENERAL USES/POLICIES

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imposition of restrictions on development in such areas.

No person shall carry out any development in that area except under a grant of development permission made by the Governor.

The Director of Environment, Heritage and Parks may grant a written permit to scientists to collect:  animal and plant specimens within a national park, nature reserve, sanctuary or area of historical interest;  artifacts from a national park, nature reserve or area of historical interest; The importance of historic interest area (a building, landmark,parks etc) is immense in terms of representing island’s history and culture.

Everyone should be careful to preserve those areas. In this regard the Department of Planning will consult with the National Parks Committee before permission is granted for any development in an area declared as a historic site.

As noted in the TCI Development Manual and the National Park Ordinance: ● Historic interest parks fall under conservation areas ● The Governor might put in effect necessary restrictions for the purpose of control and management for the area of historic interest, such as not depositing on the land or in the water of the area of historical interest any refuse, waste produce or other item or substance which does or is likely to diminish or restrict the enjoyment of the amenities of the area of historical interest. ● The National Parks Ordinance, 1975, provides for the establishment of National Parks, nature reserves, sanctuaries and historic sites and for the

Also, ● Any person who fails to comply the restrictions within area of historic interest imposed by the National Park Ordinance will face charges and punishment. During emergenies, authorities can modify/ cancel these restrictions.

As noted in the National Park Ordinance ● The following are prohibited in any park/area of historic interest: a. subject to any building preservation order made under the Physical Planning Ordinance, any alteration to the outward appearance of any structure that is not otherwise permitted by that Ordinance; b. the taking of any animal or plant by any method on land or at sea; c. the taking of any artefact; d. the removal of sand, rock, coral, coralrag or any calcareous substance; e. anchor damage to coral reef structures living or dead and associated marine plant and animal life; f. the anchoring of vessels greater than 60 feet in length other than in an anchoring zone; g. water skiing, jet skis or hovercraft;

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the dumping of refuse, abandoned vehicles, toxic or other wastes, bilges, oil and other petroleum products, pesticides and other items harmful to animals or plants, or unsightly items; i. erecting any structure unless authorized by the Director of Planning.

In any case in which private land is included in any area which has been declared to be a national park, a nature reserve, a sanctuary or an area of historical interest and the Governor does not consider that it is necessary for the purpose to which the declaration relates to acquire such land under the Land Acquisition Ordinance, any person

entitled to any interest therein shall be entitled to receive compensation from the Government for the diminution, if any, in the value of his interest consequential upon any restrictions imposed on his use of the land by reason of such declaration.

If agreement cannot be reached between the Government and the party concerned as to whether or not any compensation is payable, or as to the amount thereof, the matter shall be referred to arbitration under the provisions of the Arbitration Ordinance.

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NPSDP RECOMMENDATIONS

NPSDP recommendation information forthcoming.

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Source: NPSDP Consultant team

Source: NPSDP Consultant team TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 155

5.0- LAND USE

RESIDENTIAL RESIDENTIAL

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Residential Area covers any development which is for private residential purpose. Some such developments are called a subdivision, when the land is divided into lots with houses constructed on each lot. It would not include the use of land for commercial purpose.

LOW DENSITY A

PERMITTED USES ● One residential unit per acre

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As noted in the TCI Development Manual: ● The density requirement for this area is one dwelling unit per parcel. An additional one bedroom guest unit be allowed on a plot, provided it is compatible with the architectural features of the main house and adjacent areas. ● In single family detached development, space such as parks, playgrounds and sports fields are needed as part of the public area ● Low density residential lots cannot be less than 14,000 sqft

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PERMITTED USES ● Two residential units per acre

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LOW DENSITY B

LOW DENSITY C

PERMITTED USES ● Three residential units per acre

As noted in the TCI development manual ● 3 residential units per acre ● Density requirements according to Providenciales  Detached and semi detached houses- 3 units per acre (15persons/acre)  Duplex and detached houses- 4 units, 8 bedrooms per acre (20 persons/acre)  Apartments/Multi family- 4 two bedrooms, 8 bedrooms per acre (20 persons/acre)  Condominiums- 4 two bedrooms, 8 bedrooms per acre (12 persons/acre) ● Low density residential lots cannot be less than 14,000 sqft

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As noted in the TCI development manual ● The density requirement for this area is one dwelling unit per parcel. An additional one bedroom guest unit be allowed on a plot, provided it is compatible with the architectural features of the main house and adjacent areas. ● In single family detached development, space such as parks, playgrounds and sports fields are needed as part of the public areas ● Low density residential lots cannot be less than 14,000 sqft

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MEDIUM DENSITY

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HIGH DENSITY

PERMITTED USES ● Six to Ten residential units per acre

As noted in the TCI Development Manual: ● 3-6 residential units per acre ● Density requirements according to Providenciales  Detached and semi detached houses- 6 houses per acre (30 persons/acre)  Duplex and detached houses- 8 units, 16 bedrooms per acre (40 persons/acre)  Apartments/Multi family- 8 two bedrooms, 16 bedrooms per acre (40 persons/acre)  Condominiums- 8 two bedrooms, 16 bedrooms per acre (24 persons/acre) ● Medium density residential lots cannot be less than 7,500 sqft

As noted in the TCI Development Manual: ● 6-10 residential units per acre ● Density requirements according to Providenciales  Detached and semi detached houses- 10 houses per acre (50 persons/acre)  Duplex and detached houses- 12 units, 24 bedrooms per acre (60 persons/acre)  Apartments/Multi family- 12 two bedrooms,24 bedrooms per acre (60 persons/acre)  Condominiums- 12 two bedrooms, 24 bedrooms per acre (36 persons/acre) ● In multi-family development, space must be reserved in the site for landscaping and for recreational purposes, in addition to areas reserved for car parking and drive ways etc. This space so reserved is referred to as the amenity area and may also include swimming pools, tennis courts and other areas within the site, which in the judgment of the Board, may be used for general recreational purposes. ● Plans for the subdivision of land into more than six (6) lots must show than ten percent of the area of the land to be subdivided will be devoted to open space which shall be used as public area for recreational and landscaping purposes. ● High density residential lots cannot be less than 4,000 sqft internal lots or not less than 5.000 sqft for corner lots.

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PERMITTED USES ● Three to Six residential unit per acre

158 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

RESIDENTIAL NPSDP RECOMMENDATIONS NPSDP recommendation information forthcoming.

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5 . 0 .1 - A R C H I P E L A G O S U M M A R Y

CHAPTER 5.2

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NC

CHAPTER 5.1

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CHAPTER 5.3

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MC

DDL

160 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

IC E CA

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H C AICO

A N D TU RK

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CHAPTER 5.4

1-

S AL

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CHAPTER 5.5

CHAPTER 5.6

Credit: *1-Agile LeVin Visit Turks and Caicos Islands

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 161

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PROVIDENCIALES

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5 .1 . 0 - P R O V I D E N C I A L E S | I S L A N D O V E R V I E W

PROVIDENCIALES OVERVIEW

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Providenciales is the densest and most populous island.

Provo, as it is known in short, is famous for its highend resorts and white, sandy beaches. The island has experienced a boom in development, specifically for tourism purposes, within the last two decades. Provo is the hub of the tourism and financial services economy, due to its concentration of existing development and ease of international access.

Environmentally, Providenciales is home to three national parks, three nature reserves, and two areas of historic interest. The island includes numerous beaches: Grace Bay, Sapodilla Beach, Cooper Jack Beach, Taylor Bay, Long Bay Beach, and Bight Beach. Even though there is large volume of development on Providenciales, almost half of the coast is protected as a national park or nature reserve. However, Providenciales has experienced the most environmental degradation among the Turks and Caicos Islands due to the poor management of ongoing development.

Provo is seen as the most ‘urban’ and developed island of the archipelago, which is a definite advantage from a concentration of goods and services point of view.

However, the island is teetering on over-development and reaching over its carrying capacity if human development is to continue at the same pace and style. From a land ownership point of view, the island has less than 30% of land still designated as Crown Land, which includes the protected areas. To maintain a balance between the natural and built environment, it is recommended that Providenciales and the TCI Government keep the national

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The urban grid in Providenciales is organized along a primary east-west highway, comprised of Millennium Highway on the northwest and Leeward Highway on the east side of the island. The main secondary thoroughfares connect the primary highways to the settlements and include South Dock Road, Blue Hills Road, Chalk Sound Drive, Turtle Tail Road, Long Bay Highway, Long Bay Beach Drive, Lower Bight Road, Governor’s Road, and Grace Bay Road. The main source of employment for the island is the tourism industry. The island has the most settlements of the entire archipelago, and these include Grace Bay, The Bight, Five Cays, Juba Salina, Long Bay, Leeward Going Through, Turtle Cove, Turtle Tail, and Blue Hills.

Photo: Agile LeVin - Visit Turks and Caicos Islands (www.visittci.com) 164 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

park and historic areas protected and, following the National Parks Ordinance, prohibit development in these zones.

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Providenciales would benefit from a redevelopment, strategic development, and enhancement plan. It is recommended that Providenciales implements a reorganization of land uses to better accommodate the current and future populations. Settlements should be mixed-use, hubs of development. Existing residential clusters should be completely infilled before permits are granted for more residential developments on unspoilt areas. It is recommended also that a central governmental center be established in Downtown Provo to connect, condense, and offer key services from a specific, accessible location rather than scattered locations throughout the island. Having just one or two key locations for governmental services will save time and money, while also allowing for easier cross-collaboration in between Governmental departments.

Cays, Turtle Cove, and Downtown have great potential as mixed-use settlements for the island. Special attention should be given to each mixed-use settlement to provide economic, environmental, and social infrastructure, including, but not limited to, mixed-use, live work environments, public gathering spaces of both plazas and parks, multiple typologies of residential structures, and civic and/or governmental buildings and services. On the other hand, Long Bay Hills, Leeward Going Through, Turtle Tail/Juba Salina, and the peninsula of Chalk Sound have the necessary urban ingredients to be maintained as quieter, purely residential subdivisions or settlements.

These residential locations should however provide civic infrastructure – such as schools and parks – within the immediate adjacency of all residents. Finally, Grace Bay is the exception; it should be maintained and infilled as a tourist destination. It is also recommended that an infrastructure upgrade, such as a network of sidewalks, street trees, street lighting, and public, green spaces is implemented to make the area seem cohesive to tourists.

Overall, all settlements should maintain beach access, improved storm water drainage, and local services for residents.

D

The settlements of Providenciales are vital to keep communities attractive to residents and provide needed services at a very local level. Blue Hills, The Bight, Five

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 165

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5 .1 . 0 - P R O V I D E N C I A L E S | I S L A N D O V E R V I E W

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It is also recommended that island-wide infrastructural upgrades include sidewalks, street trees, and street lighting throughout the developed sections of the island.

Providenciales needs and immediate implemented system of storm-water drainage, specifically retention areas that hold excess water during natural storms and disasters.

The local population and tourists will both benefit from an established system of multi-use trails for pedestrians and bicyclists. Millennium and Leeward Highway should add sidewalks and bicycle lanes for non-motorized transportation options. Connected recreational areas, both formal and informal, will perpetuate an active and healthy community and link varying areas of interest for both locals and tourists. Although Provo is heavily developed, there is potential to capitalize on historic, cultural, and recreational tourism; infrastructural upgrades will only benefit the island and country economically.

D

Per the official development of short and long term transportation improvement plans, Providenciales should consider the following.

• Millennium Highway is currently operating near its maximum 2-lane capacity. Hence, future widening of this facility to four (4) lanes will likely be required.

• South Dock Road is currently operating near its maximum 2-lane capacity. Hence, future widening of this facility to four (4) lanes will likely be required.

• Leeward Highway is currently operating near its maximum 4-lane capacity. Hence, future widening of this facility to six (6) lanes will likely be required • Airport Road is currently operating near its maximum 2-lane capacity. Hence, future widening of this facility to four (4) lanes will likely be required.”

166 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

FT

Leeward Highway is an arterial roadway linking the Providenciales International Airport on the west with Long Bay, Grace Bay and the Leeward area on the east.

Constructed in 2004 -2006, it is now near 15 years old and starting to show signs of decay. Repairs are ongoing, but as traffic volumes increase, Leeward Highway will likely require full refurbishment in the next 5 to 10 years.

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Currently, Providenciales comprises more than threequarters of the nation’s population. At 3.1 persons per household, the average household size in Provo increased significantly from a decade earlier, largely due to the influx of immigration. If for all of TCI, 56% of occupied housing are renter households and 33% owner-occupied households, Providenciales has the highest share of renter households at 60 percent. Therefore an effort to balance this mix and encourage homeownership is considered to be a key area of focus for development planning, especially for future housing demand.

In recent job creations, Providenciales also had the highest number of jobs compared to other islands. Tourism is the most important economic area, with 94% of the TCI hotel rooms and condo hotel keys located in Provo.

•

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Redevelopment + Strategic Development + Enhancement Local Population Focus – civic infrastructure Turquoise for Providenciales, Pine Cay and West Caicos where the turquoise water surrounds us and contributes to bringing us our newest resource of tourism

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 167

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5 .1 .1 - P R O V I D E N C I A L E S

| ISLAND FRAMEWORK

N AT U R A L S Y S T E M S

C R I T I C A L H A B I TAT

A ERI A L

ELE VATION

FT

V E G E TAT I O N

C O A S TA L R I S K

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PROTEC TED A R E A & N AT U R A L S Y S T E M S

N AT U R A L C O M P O S I T E

C R I T I C A L H A B I TAT

D

V E G E TAT I O N

PR PROVIDENCIALES TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

N AT U R A L S Y S T E M S O V E R L AY

C O A S TA L R I S K

N AT U R A L C O M P O S I T E

168 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

B U I LT S Y S T E M S

T R A N S P O R TAT I O N NETWORK

R A

SETTLEMENT & D E V E LO PM E N T N O D ES

OWNERSHIP

B U I LT

COMPOSITE

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LES

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A RE A S OF CU LTU R A L & H ISTORIC A L SIG N I FIC A N CE

DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

B U I LT S Y S T E M S O V E R L AY SCALE: 1:25,000 0

500m

1000m

2500m

*REFER TO THE APPENDIX A3.1 FOR ADDITIONAL ANALYSIS DOCUMENTATION TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 169

Secondary Circulation Potential Water Connections

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5 .1 .1 - P R O V I D E N C I A L E S

Potential Land Connections

| ISLAND FRAMEWORK

Greenway Trail/Promenade Salina Boundary

LEG EN D

Dive Spots Beach Entry

Key Nodes

Snorkeling

Existing Development

Historic Sites

Proposed Ferry Dock/Port

View Points

Proposed Marina

Airport

Proposed Resort/Hotels

Ferry Dock/Port

Points of Interest

Marina

FT

Settlements

Residential Development Area of Concern

National Park/Nature Reserve

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Proposed Agricultural Land Land to be Preserved Critical Areas Reefs

Historical Interest Beach/Waterfront Access Primary Circulation (Existing)

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Primary Circulation (Proposed) Secondary Circulation Potential Water Connections Potential Land Connections Greenway Trail/Promenade Salina Boundary Dive Spots

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

Beach Entry Snorkeling Historic Sites

170 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

View Points

M A RI N A DE V ELOPM ENT POTENTI A L Exceptional Opportunity Good Opportunity Moderate Potential

WEST EAST

PLAN

FT

PROVIDENCIALES FRAMEWORK PLAN

R A

NO RTH W EST PO I NT M A RI N E N ATION A L PA RK

G R ACE BAY

- D EN S I F Y / I N FI LL - CR E ATE M O R E WA LK A B I LIT Y

N O RTH W EST PO I NT PO N D N ATU RE RESERV E

B LU E H I LLS HOSPITA LIT Y E X PA NSION

PRESERV E CLUSTER O F CROW N L A N D PA RCELS

PRI NCESS A LE X A N DR A N ATU RE RESERV E

STRENGTH EN DOW NTOW N

- FAC A D E I M PROV EM ENTS

I LLEGA L SE T TLEM ENTS

TU RTLE COV E RE V ITA LIZE M A RI N A

- R EM OV E PERSO N S FRO M I N F O R M A L S E T TLEM ENTS + CR E ATE A FF O R DA B LE H OUS I N G

D

CH ESH I RE H A LL PL A NTATION

PIG EO N PO N D A N D FRENCH M A N ’ S CREEK N ATU RE RESERV E

POTENTI A L M A RI N A

EXISTING FERRY DOCK

PRI NCESS A LE X A N DR A L A N D A N D SE A N ATION A L PA RK

LONG BAY H I LLS I N FI LL DE V ELO PM ENT + CI V IC I N FR A STRUC TU RE

AIRPORT

CH A LK SOU N D N ATION A L PA RK CH ESH I RE H A LL H A B ITAT RESERV E

COOPER JACK CAVE

PRO POSED NO DA L PO I NT -A M EN ITI ES - R ESTAU R A NTS -S H O PPI N G

POTENTI A L FERRY A N D M A RI N A

SAPODILLA BAY

EXISTING PORT

SA PO DI LL A BAY

- D E V ELO P I N FR A STRUC TU R E & A M EN ITI ES F O R LOC A L S

SA PO DI LL A BAY H I LL ROCK C A RV I NGS

POTENTI A L M A RI N A

POTENTI A L FERRY DOCK & M A RI N A PROPOSED A I RPORT E X PA NSION - E X PA N S I O N O F I NTER N ATI O N A L TER M I N A L -A LLE V I ATE TR A FFI C

POTENTI A L FERRY DOCK & M A RI N A

ISLAND FRAMEWORK

PR PROVIDENCIALES

SCALE: 1:25,000

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

0

500m

1000m

2500m

* Refer to enlargements on the following pages TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 171

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5 .1 .1 - P R O V I D E N C I A L E S

| ISLAND FRAMEWORK

WEST

NORTH W EST PO I NT PON D N ATU RE RESERV E

PRESERV E CLUSTER OF CROW N L A N D PA RCELS

FT

NORTH W EST PO I NT M A RI N E N ATION A L PA RK

B LU E H I LLS HOSPITA LIT Y E X PA NSION STRENGTH EN DOW NTOW N

- FAC A D E I M PROV EM ENTS

I LLEGA L SE T TLEM ENTS

R A

- R EM OV E PERSO N S FRO M I N F O R M A L S E T TLEM ENTS + CR E ATE A FF O R DA B LE H OUS I N G

D

CH ESH I RE H A LL PL A NTATION

PRI NCES A LE X A N D LAND AND N ATION A L

AIRPORT

CH ESH I RE H A LL H A B ITAT RESERV E

COOPER JACK CAVE

PROPOSED NODA L PO I NT -A M EN ITI ES - R ESTAU R A NTS -S H O PPI N G

SAPODILLA BAY

EXISTING PORT

SA PODI LL A BAY

- D E V ELO P I N FR A STRUC TU R E & A M EN ITI ES F O R LOC A LS

SA PODI LL A BAY H I LL ROCK C A RV I NGS

ENLARGEMENT

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RE V ITA LIZE M A R

CH A LK SOU N D N ATION A L PA RK

PIG EON PON D A N D FRENCH M A N ’ S CREEK N ATU RE RESERV E

POTENTI A L FERRY A N D M A RI N A

TU RTLE COV E

PROVIDENCIALES

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

172 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

POTENTI A L M A RI N A

POTENTI A L FERRY DOCK & M A RI N A PROPOSED A I RPORT E X PA NSION - E X PA N S I O N O F I NTER N ATI O N A L TER M I N A L -A LLE V I ATE TR A FFI C

POTENTI A L FERRY DOCK & M A RI N A

ISLAND FRAMEWORK

EAST

G R ACE BAY

FT

- D EN S I F Y / I N FI LL - CR E ATE M O R E WA LK A B I LIT Y

B LU E H I LLS HOSPITA LIT Y E X PA NSION STRENGTH EN DOW NTOW N

- FAC A D E I M PROV EM ENTS

I LLEGA L SE T TLEM ENTS

TU RTLE COV E

RE V ITA LIZE M A RI N A

- R EM OV E PERSO N S FRO M I N F O R M A L S E T TLEM ENTS + CR E ATE A FF O R DA B LE H OUS I N G

R A

UND PA RK

PRI NCESS A LE X A N DR A L A N D A N D SE A N ATION A L PA RK

LONG BAY H I LLS I N FI LL DE V ELOPM ENT + CI V IC I N FR A STRUC TU RE

COOPER JACK CAVE

D

CH ESH I RE H A LL H A B ITAT RESERV E

POTENTI A L M A RI N A

EXISTING FERRY DOCK

CH ESH I RE H A LL PL A NTATION

AIRPORT

PRI NCESS A LE X A N DR A N ATU RE RESERV E

A BAY

EXISTING PORT

L A BAY

UC TU R E & R LOC A LS

BAY H I LL A RV I NGS

POTENTI A L FERRY DOCK & M A RI N A

PROPOSED A I RPORT E X PA NSION - E X PA N S I O N O F I NTER N ATI O N A L TER M I N A L -A LLE V I ATE TR A FFI C

POTENTI A L M A RI N A

POTENTI A L FERRY DOCK & M A RI N A

ENLARGEMENT

ISLAND FRAMEWORK

SCALE: 1:25,000 0

500m

1000m

2500m

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 173

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5 .1 . 2 - P R O V I D E N C I A L E S

| LAND USE

LEG EN D Park Open Space Park Local Park Reserve

FT

Park National Agriculture Farming & Food Production Commercial Tourism / Hospitality Commercial Local Mixed Use

Infrastructure / Civic

D

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Industrial Airport

Infrastructure Utilities Future Community Development (Residential / Open Space) Residential High Density Residential Medium Density Residential Low Density A Residential Low Density B Residential Low Density C

Photos: Agile LeVin Visit Turks and Caicos Islands (www.visittci.com) 174 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

D

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FT

WEST EAST

PLAN

PROVIDENCIALES PROPOSED LAND USE PLAN

* Refer to enlargements on the following pages

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 175

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5 .1 . 2 - P R O V I D E N C I A L E S

| LAND USE

WEST

LEG EN D Park Open Space Park Local Park Reserve Park National

Agriculture Farming & Food

Commercial Tourism / Hosp

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Commercial Local

ENLARGEMENT

176 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

Mixed Use Infrastructure / Civic Industrial Airport Infrastructure Utilities

Future Community Develop

(Residential / Open Space) Residential High Density

Residential Medium Densit Residential Low Density A Residential Low Density B Residential Low Density C

EAST

d Production

FT

pitality

pment

)

D

R A

ty

ENLARGEMENT

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 177

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5 .1 . 3 - P R O V I D E N C I A L E S

| AREA ACTION PLAN

DOWNTOWN RESILIENCY | PLACEMAKING | PUBLIC SPACE

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FT

Downtown bridges the gap between the airport, Blue Hills, and The Bight. Downtown Providenciales is the local haven for TCI islanders; this is where the governmental hub is located. This area is least desirable for development because it is low-lying. Resilience alternatives are very important to the longevity and success for the area as the existing core is seated in a low lying area.

OPPORTUNITIES • Development: create a town center with the elements of a mixed-use core with a greenspace network of which is surrounded by residential opportunities of medium and high densities; opportunity to create a hub of governmental entities • Housing: this is the ‘densest’ housing in all of TCI – medium to high densities; existing low densities to remain and be built into the new fabric.

• Infrastructure: connect to Providenciales greenway network; establish a hierarchical road network; maintain utilities that can support local population; new alternatives to pump for flooding • Preservation: identify spaces to be preserved for open space and community use; buffer area with open space

178 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

Park Open Space

Commercial Local

Park Reserve

Mixed Use

Park Local

Infrastructure / Civic

Agriculture Farming & Food Production

Industrial

CO N C E P T: • Re - e n e rg ize t h e d ow n tow n a re a a n d p rov i d eCommercial p e d e sTourism t r i a n/ Hospitality co n n e c t i o n s to o pAirport e n - s p a ce a n d Commercial Local Infrastructure Utilities g re e n Park w a yOpen s Space • P ro m oPark te Reserve i n f i l l o r a d a p t i ve re u s e b efo re ex p aMixed n d i Use n g t h e d o w n to w n co re i f n eResidential ce s s a rMedium y ove r time Density • C re a te a ce n t r a l g ove r n m e n t c a m p u s i n t h e Infrastructure h e a r t of/ Civic d o w n to w n to p ro m o te co l l a b o r a t i o n Residential Low Density A Park Local • P ro m o te a w a l ka b l e co m m u n i t y Industrial Agriculture Farming & Food Production • Implem e n t a s to r m w a te r m a n a g e m e n t p l a n; t a rg e t g re e n i n f r a s t r u c t u re a n dResidential g re e nLow s tDensity re et B Airport Residential Low Density C te c h n oCommercial l o g i e s Tourism / Hospitality • Ta rg e tCommercial p l a ce mLocal a k i n g s t r a te g i e s w i t h a l l re d eve l o p m eUtilities n t o p p o r t u n i t i e s to g i ve D o w n to w n a Infrastructure co m p re h e n s i ve, b r a n d e d fe e l Residential Medium Density Mixed Use Residential Low Density A

Industrial

Residential Low Density B

Airport

Residential Low Density C

Infrastructure Utilities Residential Medium Density Residential Low Density A Residential Low Density B Residential Low Density C

PUBLIC PROMENADE

FT

Infrastructure / Civic

CO N T I N U O U S G R E EAACP N WAY LEGEND MIXED USE D E V E LO P M E N T - W I T H B O U L E VA R D S T R E E T

R A

AACP LEGEND

D

AACP LEGEND

ENHANCE STREET AC T I V I T Y BY C R E AT I N G A ‘ F E S T I VA L S T R E E T ’ E N D I N G AT G OV E R N M E N T CAMPUS E S TA B L I S H A ‘ M A I N STREET’ VIBE S P O R T S / R E C R E AT I O N

C R E AT E A I R P O R T L I N K T H R O U G H D OW N TOW N

A I R P O R T- B A S E D E X PA N S I O N - F & B , H OT E L , A N D I N T E R N AT I O N A L TERMINALS INDUSTRIAL ROUTE

AREA ACTION PLAN - ENLARGEMENT TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 179

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5 .1 . 3 - P R O V I D E N C I A L E S

| AREA ACTION PLAN

GRACE BAY SUSTAIN | INFILL | PUBLIC SPACE

OPPORTUNITIES • Infrastructure: ‘finish out’ utilities, comprehensive storm drainage system • Housing: apartments and long-term accommodation currently commercial entity > > community • Development: infill or adaptive reuse • A Public Access Plan is needed for beach access, parking, create public spaces for community use, connect to other settlements of Providenciales through a greenway system of multi-use, nonmotorized pathways (bike paths, walkways/ sidewalks) • Preservation: maintain public beach access points and dedicate (two) parcels to open space for the community

D

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Grace Bay is clearly the most developed area o Providenciales. Essentially a modern strip development with heavy emphasis on tourism including restaurants, retail and hotels, Grace Bay is currently the jewel of Providenciales tourism. The Grace Bay component lacks a community component to exist in tandem with and balance the the hospitality component.

Photo: Agile LeVin - Visit Turks and Caicos Islands (www.visittci.com) 180 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

Park Open Space

Commercial Local

Park Reserve

Mixed Use

Park Local

Infrastructure / Civic

Agriculture Farming & Food Production

Industrial

CO N C E P T: S U S TA I N | I N F I L L | P U B L I C S PAC E Tourism / Hospitality Airport • M a i n t a i n G r a ce B ay a s t h e to u r i s m j ewe l h uCommercial b i n P rovo.

• I n f rPark a s tOpen r u c tSpace u re: f i l l i n u t i l i t i e s , co m p re h e n s i ve s to r m d r a i n a g e s y s te m , co n t i n u o u s s i d ew alks Commercial Local Infrastructure Utilities • H o u s i n g: a p a r t m e n t s + l o n g - te r m a cco m m o d a t i o n to i n c re a s e s e n s e of co m m u n i t y Mixed Use Residential Medium Density Park Reserve • D eve l o p m e n t : i n f i l l o r a d a p t i ve re u s e Infrastructure / Civic Residential LowmDensity • P u bPark l i cLocal Acce s s P l a n i s n e e d e d fo r b e a c h a cce s s , p a r k i n g , c re a te p u b l i c s p a ce s fo r co m u n iAt y u s e, co n n e c t to o t h e r s et t l e m e n t s of P rov i d e n c ia l e s t h ro u g h a g re e n w ay s y s te m of m u l t i - u sB e, Industrial Residential Low Density Agriculture Farming & Food Production n o nCommercial - m o to r ize d p a t h w ay s ( b i ke p a t h s , w a l k w ay s /s i d ew a l k s) Airport Residential Low Density C Tourism / Hospitality • P re s e r v a t i o n: m a i n t a i n + e n h a n ce p u b l i c b e a c h a cce s s p o i n t s a n d d e d i c a te ( t w o) p a rce l s to Infrastructure Utilities o p eCommercial n s p a ceLocal fo r t h e co m m u n i t y Mixed Use

Residential Medium Density

Infrastructure / Civic

Residential Low Density A

Industrial

Residential Low Density B

Airport

Residential Low Density C

Residential Medium Density

FT

B E AC H ACC E S S A LO N G Infrastructure Utilities G R E E N WAY CO R R I D O R S

M I X E D U S E CO M M E R C I A L + H OS P I TA L I T Y

Residential Low Density A Residential Low Density B

Residential Low Density C

G R AC E B AY H OT E L S / R E S O RT S I N C LU D E S S E V E N S H O P P I N G P L A Z A S; A L L TO B E R E VA M P E D F O R “ P L AC E M A K I N G ”

AACP LEGEND

R A

P U B L I C S PAC E / PA R K

AACP LEGEND

R E S O R TST YLE VILL AS “CO M P O U N DS ”

D

AACP

B E AC H ACC E S S A LO N G G R E E N WAY LEGEND CO R R I D O R S

ADDITIONAL H OT E L S

CO M M E R C I A L D E V E LO P M E N T A LO N G L E E WA R D H I G H WAY

AREA ACTION PLAN - ENLARGEMENT

PR PROVIDENCIALES | GRACE BAY

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 181

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

PR

5 .1 . 3 - P R O V I D E N C I A L E S

| AREA ACTION PLAN

TURTLE COVE REVITALIZE | INFILL | PUBLIC AMENITIES

D

R A

FT

Turtle Cove is a development settled around a marina and high end residential along the center of the north shore of the island. With its qualities to be somewhat clustered, Turtle Cove has huge potential to be developed as a marina village. This should be encouraged and possibly initiated with a street lighting and renewed pedestrian scheme, that would also include storm water management and also bring utilities underground

OPPORTUNITIES • Infrastructure: ‘finish out utilities; comprehensive storm drainage system • Housing: build up to medium density (condominiums, apartments; limit story maximum); depict certain areas to maintain high end residential • Development: ‘neighborhood center’ node = mixed use development; ferry stop?

• A Public Access Plan is needed for beach access, parking, create public spaces for community use, connect to other settlements of Providenciales through a greenway system of multi-use, nonmotorized pathways (bike paths, walkways/ sidewalks); create a public promenade that connects marina with adjacent parcels • Incorporate ‘placemaking’ and wayfinding techniques

182 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

Park Open Space

Commercial Local

Park Reserve

Mixed Use

Park Local

Infrastructure / Civic

Farming & Food Production Industrial CO N C E P T: R E V I TA L IZ E | I N F I L L | P U B L I C A M E N I Agriculture TIES • B u i l d u p o n + rev i ve t h e m i xe d u s e e p i ce n te r Commercial of P rovo.

Tourism / Hospitality Airport • E n h a n ce ex i s t i n g p u b l i c re a l m ex p e r i e n ce s u r ro u n d i n g m a r i n a a n d p rov i d e p e d e s t r ia n a cce s s Commercial Local Infrastructure Utilities • I n f r aPark s t r uOpen c t uSpace re: ‘ f i n i s h o u t u t i l i t i e s; co m p re h e n s i ve s to r m d r a i n a g e s y s te m Residential Reserve • H o u sPark i n g: b u i l d u p to m e d i u m d e n s i t y ; ce r t a i nMixed a reUse a s to m a i n t a i n h i g h e n d re s i d e n t ia l Medium Density • A P uPark b l i cLocal A cce s s P l a n i s n e e d e d fo r b e a c h a cce s s , p a r/ kCivic i n g , c re a te p u b l i c s p a ce s fo r Low co m m u nAi t y Infrastructure Residential Density u s e, co n n e c t to o t h e r s et t l e m e n t s of P rov i d e n c ia l e s t h ro u g h a g re e n w ay s y s te m of m u l t i - u s e, Industrial Residential Low Density B Agriculture Farming & Food Production n o n - m o to r ize d p a t h w ay s ( b i ke p a t h s , w a l k w ay s /s i d ew a l k s) ; c re a te a p u b l i c p ro m e n a d e t h a t Airport Residential Low Density C / Hospitality co n nCommercial e c t s m aTourism rina w i t h a d ja ce n t p a rce l s • I n co rCommercial p o r a te Local ‘p l a ce m a k i n g’ a n d w ay f i n d i n g te Infrastructure c h n i q u e sUtilities Residential Medium Density

Infrastructure / Civic

Residential Low Density A

Industrial

Residential Low Density B

Airport

Residential Low Density C

Infrastructure Utilities Residential Medium Density Residential Low Density A Residential Low Density B Residential Low Density C

FT

Mixed Use

P U B L I C B E AC H ACC E S S . P R E S E R V E O P E N S PAC E

I N F I L L E X I S T I N G R E S I D E N T I A L / V I L L A D E V E LO P M E N T

AACP LEGEND

I N F I L L- M E D I U M D E N S I T Y D E V E LO P M E N N T FILL WITH HIGH-END OPTIONS P R O P OS E D M A R I N A D E V E LO P M E N T

AACP LEGEND

R A

C LU B

E N H A N C E A N D R E V I TA L IZ E M I X E D U S E CO M M E R C I A L CO R E

AACP LEGEND

I N C R E A S E L A N DS C A P E F O R P E D E S T R I A N CO M F O R T + E N H A N C E CO M M E R C I A L / M A R I N A D E V E LO P M E N T E N H A N C E A R R I VA L TO D E V E LO P M E N T M A R I N A B A S E D H OS P I TA L I T Y O P P O RT U N I T Y

D

P R O M E N A D E T H R O U G H O U T A L L O F T U RT L E COV E WAT E R F R O N T F O R P U B L I C ACC E S S; CO N N E C T TO P U B L I C B E AC H ACC E S S

AREA ACTION PLAN - ENLARGEMENT

PR PROVIDENCIALES | TURTLE COVE

AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS TURKS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

183

PR

5 .1 . 3 - P R O V I D E N C I A L E S

| AREA ACTION PLAN

BLUE HILLS STRATEGIC BEACH DEVELOPMENT | PRESERVE FOR PUBLIC | GROWTH MANAGEMENT BOUNDARY

rental); multi-family options Public Access Plan is needed for beach access, parking, create public spaces for community use, connect to other settlements of Providenciales through a greenway system of multi-use, nonmotorized pathways (bike paths, walkways/ sidewalks) Preservation: maintain public beach access points and dedicate parcels to open space for the community – throughout the community Infrastructure: storm water drainage; ‘finish out’ utilities ԰ Millennium Highway should include an adjacent multi-use path ԰ Blue Hills Road: comparable to Grace Bay needs

FT

The oldest settlement in Providenciales, Blue Hills reaches from Blue Hills roundabout to Wheeland and from Millennium Highway to the eastern shoreline; Blue Hills comprises a string of shoreline parcels.

•

•

D

R A

OPPORTUNITIES • Development: cluster key hospitality (branded hotels) along beach front; housing; perpetuate mixed use development along southern side of Blue Hills Road; promenade on beach side of Blue Hills Road – MAINTAIN AS PUBLIC (Venice Boardwalk); ferry stop • Housing: affordable housing AND/OR estate lots (maintained by TCI as economic resource, long-term

•

184 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

Park Open Space

Commercial Local

CO N C E P T: S T R AT E G I C B E AC H D E V E LO P M E N T | P R E S E R V E F O R P U B L I C | G R OW T H M G M T. Park Reserve Mixed Use B O U N DA RY Infrastructure • D eve l o p m e n t : c l u s te r s m a l l - s c a l e, b o u t i q u e hPark o s pLocal i t a l i t y o p t i o n s ( b r a n d e d h o te l s i n c l u /dCivic ed) along Agriculture Farming b e a c h f ro n t ; h o u s i n g; p e r p et u a te m i xe d u s e d eve lopm e n t &a Food l o n gProduction s o u t h e r n s i d eIndustrial of B l u e H i l l s Ro a d; p ro m e n a d e o n b e a c h s i d e of B l u e H i l l s Commercial Ro a d –Tourism M a i n/ tHospitality a i n a s p u b l i c a m eAirport n t i t y.

• H o u s i n g: a f fo rd a b l e h o u s i n g A N D/O R e s t a te l o t s (m a i n t a i n e d by TC I G a s e co n o m i c re s o u rce, Commercial Local Infrastructure Utilities l o n g - tePark r mOpen re nSpace tal); multi-family options Reserves s P l a n n e e d e d fo r b e a c h a cce sMixed • A P u b l Park i c Acce s , pUse a r k i n g , c re a te p u b l i c s p a ceResidential s fo r coMedium m m uDensity nit y u s e, coPark n nLocal e c t to o t h e r s et t l e m e n t s of P rov i d e nInfrastructure c i a l e s t h/ Civic ro u g h a g re e n w a y s y s Residential te m of Low m uDensity l t i - u sAe, n o n - m o to r ize d p a t h w ay s ( b i ke p a t h s , w a l k w a yIndustrial s /s i d ew a l k s) Residential Low Density B Agriculture Farming & Food Production • P re s e r v a t i o n: m a i n t a i n p u b l i c b e a c h a cce s s p o i n t s a n d d e d i c a te p a rce l s to o p e n s p a ce fo r t h e Airport Residential Low Density C co m m uCommercial n i t y – tTourism h ro u g/ Hospitality h o u t t h e co m m u n i t y Infrastructure Utilities • I n f r a s t Commercial r u c t u re:Local s to r m w a te r d r a i n a g e; f i l l i n u t i l i t i e s Residential Medium Density

Infrastructure / Civic

Residential Low Density A

Industrial

Residential Low Density B

Airport

Residential Low Density C

Infrastructure Utilities Residential Medium Density Residential Low Density A Residential Low Density B Residential Low Density C

FT

Mixed Use

P R E S E R V E L A N D U N T I L N E E D E D ( LO N G T E R M ) TO I N C LU D E O P E N S PAC E + CO N N E C T I V I T Y TO G R E E N WAY

AACP LEGEND

H OS P I TA L I T Y - B O U T I Q U E , S M A L L S C A L E D E V E LO P M E N T A LO N G WAT E R B OA R DWA L K

R A

AACP LEGEND

O P E N AACP S PAC ELEGEND

D

G R E E N WAY CO N N E C T I O N TO O P E N S PAC E A N D SET TLEMENTS

ADD POINTS OF INTEREST A LO N G B OA R DWA L K WAT E R F R O N T R E S TAU R A N T S , WAT E R S P O R T R E N TA L S , P L AYG R O U N D, B E AC H ACC E S S , A N D E X E R C I S E S TAT I O N S .

G R E E N WAYS TO B E AC H - M A I N TA I N ACC E S S

PLAN - ENLARGEMENT M I X E D U S E O P P O RAREA T U N I TACTION Y

PR PROVIDENCIALES | BLUE HILLS

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 185

PR

5 .1 . 3 - P R O V I D E N C I A L E S

| AREA ACTION PLAN

FIVE CAYS, SAPODILLA, & TAYLOR BAY CHALK SOUND ACCESSIBILITY | LAND USE SEPARATION | RESILIENCY

OPPORTUNITIES • Development: build up commercial corridor with local businesses and those relating to South Dock (industrial/office) • Housing: promote multi-family, medium density housing rather than single family homes • Preservation: maintain open space; establish an adjacent greenway corridor parallel to Five Cays Road • Connection and implementation of accessible greenways to promote an active lifestyle • Protection and rehabilitation of ecologically sensitive areas, land prone to flooding, and land within the national park

FT

Five Cays stretches from the airport to South Dock on Providenciales. The settlement radiates from Five Cays Road, which runs North/South. Five Cays Road will become the epicenter for commercial development, with residential uses tucked behind the commercial corridor.

Sapodilla and Taylor Bay have an opportunity to be further enlivened by allowing for small F+B opportunities along the waterside.

D

R A

The area is a mix of the original cluster development and a more recent development that includes shacks and shanty development some of which is in very low-lying areas. It is recommended that these shanty areas be stopped or controlled. Storm drainage, sidewalks and street lighting should be the first priority for implementation.

186 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

Park Open Space

Commercial Local

Park Reserve

Mixed Use

Park Local

Infrastructure / Civic

Agriculture Farming & Food Production Industrial CO N C E P T: • D eve l o p m e n t : b u i l d u p co m m e rc ia l co r r i d o r wCommercial i t h l o c aTourism l b u s/i Hospitality n e s s e s a n d t h o s e re l a t i n g to S o u t h Airport D o c k ( i n d u s t r i a l /o f f i ce) Commercial Local Infrastructure Utilities Open Space • H o u sPark i n g: p ro m o te m u l t i - f a m i l y, m e d i u m d e n s i t y h o u s i n g r a t h e r t h a n s i n g l e f a m ily homes Medium Density Reserve • S e p aPark r a te t h e i n d u s t r ia l t r a f f i c f ro m t h a t o f re Mixed s i d e Use n t i a l / h o s p i t a l / a n d o p e n s p aResidential ce • P u b l Park i c Acce s s P l a n i s n e e d e d fo r b e a c h / p a r k a cce s s , p a r k i n g , c re a te p u b l i c s p a ce s fo rDensity A Infrastructure / Civic Residential Low Local co m m u n i t y u s e, v ia a g re e n w a y s y s te m o f m u l t i - u s e, n o n - m o to r ize d p a t h w a y s ( b i ke p a t h s , Industrial Residential Low Density B Agriculture Farming & Food Production w a l k w a y s /s i d ew a l k s) . E x p a n d o n g re e n w a y n e t w o r k t h ro u g h l a n d p ro n e to f l o o d i n g .

Airport LowmDensity • C re aCommercial te p u b l iTourism c b e a/ cHospitality h a cce s s p o i n t s a n d a l l o w fo r p u b l i c a cce s s a l o n g C h a l k S Residential o u n d , f ro s m aCl l F & B Commercial o p p o r t uLocal n i t i e s to n o n m o to r ize d w a te rc r aInfrastructure f t re n t a l sUtilities .

Medium E N H A N C E P R O M E N A D E E X PResidential ERIENC E BYDensity I N G U I TOS H U BA Low Density Infrastructure / Civic C R E AT I N G A N E W F & B /C H I RResidential Mixed Use

Residential Low Density B

Airport

Residential Low Density C

FT

Industrial

Infrastructure Utilities

AIRPORT E X PA N S I O N

Residential Medium Density Residential Low Density A

AACP LEGEND

OPPORTUNIT Y FOR N O N M OTO R IZ E D S P O R T S ACC E S S / L AU N C H , LO O KO U TS

Residential Low Density B Residential Low Density C

R A

AACP LEGEND

CHALK SOUND

AACP LEGEND

D

TAY LO R B AY

SAPODILLA B AY

M A I N TA I N U P P E R R OA D F O R RESIDENTIAL / CO M M E R C I A L / H OS P I TA L I T Y B E AC H ACC E S S TO TAY LO R B AY

REROUTE / S E PA R AT E R O U T E FOR INDUSTRIAL TRAFFIC I N F I L L VAC A N T LOT S A N D D E V E LO P F & B / C H I R I N G U I TOS EXPERIENCE INDUSTRIAL USE AREAS EXISTING PORT S A P O D I L L A H I L LP R OT E C T L A N D M A R K

AREA ACTION PLAN - ENLARGEMENT

PR PROVIDENCIALES | SOPADILLA & TAYLOR BAY

AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS TURKS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

187

D R A FT

FT

5.2

D

R A

NORTH CAICOS

NC

5.2.0- NORTH CAICOS | ISLAND OVERVIEW

NORTH CAICOS OVERVIEW

Kew, Whitby, and Bottle Creek have great potential as mixed-use settlements for North Caicos. These settlements have historic value, established locations, strong ‘village’ presences compared to other parts of the island, a cluster of governmental services, and great potential for public gathering spaces for the communities. While Kew is focused on more governmental and agricultural related services, Whitby and Bottle Creek have a greater tourism presence. It is recommended that Whitby continues to invest in maintaining the existindg tourist villas already established, with the potential addition of a few more when demand grows. Bottle Creek should continue to develop the proposed beach promenade tied to hospitality and commercial development overlooking the water. Kew’s importance will grow once Bellfield Landing is revitalized and in use; the infrastructure within the settlement core should be upgraded to match future potential demand.

FT

The ‘Twin Islands’ of North and Middle Caicos are situated between Providenciales and East Caicos. They are two of the largest islands in the archipelago and are the only two islands to be connected by vehicular means via a causeway. These two islands, as well as East Caicos, have a large amount of land protected under the statutes of a Ramsar site: the North, Middle, and East Caicos Nature Reserve. The reserve was created via the 1971 Ramsar Convention in Iran as a means for wetland protection. East Caicos is an uninhabited island and not part of the current NDSDP study.

the southeast corner past Bottle Creek; the highway goes by multiples names depending on which settlement it is nearest too.

D

R A

North Caicos is located in close proximity to Provo, to which it is connected by a ferry system. The island is known for the nearby western cays and its fertile land used historically for agricultural purposes. Historically, North Caicos has been the center of farming and still houses the Government Farm in Kew. While Kew is the central settlement, the settlements of Sandy Point, Whitby, and Bottle Creek make up the less than 2,000 person island population. The island is connected by a highway stretching from the northwest corner at Sandy Point to

190 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

FT R A

D Photo: Agile LeVin - Visit Turks and Caicos Islands (www.visittci.com) TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 191

NC

5.2.0- NORTH CAICOS | ISLAND OVERVIEW

R A

FT

It is recommended that North Caicos maintains the connection to Middle Caicos via causeway; upgrades should be made to maintain the integrity of the causeway during future natural disasters. North Caicos should also establish a stronger ferry system; a ferry system exists between Providenciales and north Caicos; however, the government should continue its plans to redevelop Bellfield Landing as a ferry and port south of Sandy Point.

An investment across the archipelago in the ferry system, and more specifically between Providenciales and North Caicos, would indirectly attract more opportunities for North and Middle Caicos without overwhelming the community and infrastructure from a vehicular connection.

The successful ferry solution should focus on comfortability, reliability, and safety. The upgraded and rehabilitated port would ease the flow of goods to North and Middle Caicos. The Turks and Caicos Islands have the potential to capitalize on transportation via water due to their geographic makeup; this is a one-of-a-kind opportunity that would be distinctive for the islands and attractive for locals and tourists alike.

D

North Caicos could supplement the tourism industry with an increase in agricultural production and new technology industries. To pair with the historic agricultural attraction, it is recommended that North Caicos implements targeted agricultural-related new technologies, such as aquaculture and hydroponics. The island has the physical space to implement the infrastructure needed for these new technologies and can benefit from the strengthened connection, via ferry between North Caicos and Providenciales.

Infrastructural upgrades should include sidewalks, street trees, and street lighting within Kew, Whitby, and Bottle Creek. The local population and tourists will both benefit from an established system of multi-use trails for pedestrians and bicyclists. Connected recreational areas, both formal and informal, will perpetuate an active

192 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

Low Density, locally-focused development Cultural Tourism Small-scale tourism opportunities (twin islands) Green for North Caicos and Parrot Cay where fruit trees and others flourish in the fertile soil along with Wades Green Plantation where cotton grew and flourished in days gone by

D

R A

• • • •

FT

and healthy community and link varying areas of interest for both locals and tourists. The multi-use trail system, including greenways, should connect North and Middle Caicos. Recreational and adventure tourism would greatly benefit from a comprehensive network of trails between the Twin Islands.

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 193

NC

5 . 2 .1 - N O R T H C A I C O S

| ISLAND FRAMEWORK

N AT U R A L S Y S T E M S

A ERI A L

FT

CRITICAL HA

ELE VATION

A ERI A L

R A

PROTEC TED A R E A & N AT U R A L S Y S T E M S

V E G E TA

C O A S TA L

N AT U R A L C O M P O

C R I T I C A L H A B I TAT

ATION

D

V E G E TAT I O N

AREA TEMS

*REFER TO THE APPENDIX A3.1 FOR ADDITIONAL ANALYSIS DOCUMENTATION

CAICOS NC NORTH TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

C O A S TA L R I S K

N AT U R A L C O M P O S I T E

194 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

N AT U R A L S Y S T E M S O V E R L

B U I LT S Y S T E M S

T R A N S P O R TAT I O N NETWORK

R A

SETTLEMENT & D E V E LO PM E N T N O D ES

OWNERSHIP

B U I LT

COMPOSITE

D

COS

FT

A RE A S OF CU LTU R A L & H ISTO RIC A L SIG N I FIC A NCE

NDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

B U I LT S Y S T E M S O V E R L AY SCALE: 1:25,000 0

500m

1000m

2500m

*REFER TO THE APPENDIX A3.1 FOR ADDITIONAL ANALYSIS DOCUMENTATION TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 195

Secondary Circulation Potential Water Connections

NC

5 . 2 .1 - N O R T H C A I C O S

Potential Land Connections

| ISLAND FRAMEWORK

Greenway Trail/Promenade Salina Boundary

LEG EN D

Dive Spots Beach Entry

Key Nodes

Snorkeling

Existing Development

Historic Sites

Proposed Ferry Dock/Port

View Points

Proposed Marina

Airport

Proposed Resort/Hotels

Ferry Dock/Port

Points of Interest

Marina

FT

Settlements

Residential Development Area of Concern

National Park/Nature Reserve

R A

Proposed Agricultural Land Land to be Preserved Critical Areas Reefs

Historical Interest Beach/Waterfront Access Primary Circulation (Existing)

D

Primary Circulation (Proposed) Secondary Circulation Potential Water Connections Potential Land Connections Greenway Trail/Promenade Salina Boundary Dive Spots Beach Entry Snorkeling Historic Sites

196 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

View Points

M A RI N A DE V ELOPM ENT POTENTI A L Exceptional Opportunity Good Opportunity Moderate Potential

PLAN

FT

WEST EAST

NORTH CAICOS FRAMEWORK PLAN

STA LLED DE V ELOPM ENT TH REE M A RY C AYS N ATION A L PA RK

PUMPKIN BLUFF

THREE MARY CAYS

WHITBY

PU M PKI N B LU FF PO N D N ATU RE RESERV E A RE A O F H ISTORIC I NTEREST (PL A NTATION)

SANDY POINT LANDING (SANDY POINT MARINA)

R A

- P OTENTI A L M A R I N A - FUTU R E H OTEL

HORSESTABLE BEACH

COT TAG E PO N D N ATU RE RESERV E

DICK H I LL CREEK A N D B ELLEFI ELD L A N DI N G PO N D N ATU RE RESERV E

NEW AG RICU LTU R A L LAND

N E W N ATU RE RESERV E

E A ST BAY ISL A N DS N ATION A L PA RK

FLAMINGO POND

FISH I NG

AIRPORT

BELLFIELD LANDING

KEW

E X PA N D GOV ERN M ENT FA RM

GOVERNMENT FARM

EXISTING PORT & FERRY TERMINAL

POTENTI A L M A RI N A

NO FISH I NG BOTTLE CREEK

FUTU RE PRO M EN A DE A LO N G WATER

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NO RTH C A ICOS N ATU RE RESERV E

TOBY ROCK LANDING

POTENTI A L FERRY TERM I N A L

C AUSE WAY TO M I DDLE C A ICOS

ISLAND FRAMEWORK

NC NORTH CAICOS

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WEST STA LLED DE V ELOPM ENT TH REE M A RY C AYS N ATION A L PA RK

PUMPKIN BLUFF

THREE MARY CAYS

WHITBY

HORSESTABLE BEACH

PU M PKI N B LU FF PON D N ATU RE RESERV E A RE A OF H ISTORIC I NTEREST (PL A NTATION)

SANDY POINT LANDING (SANDY POINT MARINA)

COT TAG E PON D N ATU RE RESERV E DICK H I LL CREEK A N D B ELLEFI ELD L A N DI NG PON D N ATU RE RESERV E

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- P OTENTI A L M A R I N A - FUTU R E H OTEL

NEW AG RICU LTU R A L LAND

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N E W N ATU RE RESERV E

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AIRPORT

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EXISTING PORT & FERRY TERMINAL

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ENLARGEMENT

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NORTH CAICOS

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ISLAND FRAMEWORK

NO FISH BOTTLE CREEK

EAST D DE V ELOPM ENT PUMPKIN BLUFF WHITBY

E A ST BAY ISL A N DS N ATION A L PA RK

FLAMINGO POND

AIRPORT

KEW

T

FISH I NG

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FUTU RE PROM EN A DE A LONG WATER

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ORTH C A ICOS TU RE RESERV E

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N E W N ATU RE RESERV E

HORSESTABLE BEACH

POTENTI A L FERRY TERM I N A L

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5.2.2- NORTH CAICOS

| LAND USE

LEG EN D Park Open Space Park Local Park Reserve

FT

Park National

Agriculture Farming & Food Production Commercial Tourism / Hospitality Commercial Local Mixed Use

Infrastructure / Civic

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R A

Industrial Airport

Infrastructure Utilities Future Community Development (Residential / Open Space) Residential High Density Residential Medium Density Residential Low Density A Residential Low Density B Residential Low Density C

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| LAND USE

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ENLARGEMENT

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EAST

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5.2.3-NORTH CAICOS

| AREA ACTION PLAN

KEW TRADITIONAL DEVELOPMENT | INFILL | MIXED USE

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R A

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Historically a linear development that has evolved along the edge of a lane or narrow road, Kew should set the precedent for traditional island-style development not bordering a water body. Streetscapes should be improved to attract public space usage and gatherings. It is recommended that Kew stays low density and quaint in its character; there should be a local amenity focus.

OPPORTUNITIES • Development: established mixed use core surrounding Wade’s Green Plantation; establish a hospitality accommodation for natural, historic, and cultural tourism; capitalize on farm-to-table businesses • Housing: offer range of housing opportunities in low and medium density typologies • Infrastructure: ‘finish out’ utilities; create a network of pedestrian and bicycle-accessible infrastructure • Preservation: implement phased growth/growth boundary

Photo: Agile LeVin - Visit Turks and Caicos Islands (www.visittci.com) 204 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

Park Open Space

Commercial Local

Park Reserve

Mixed Use

Park Local

Infrastructure / Civic

Agriculture Farming & Food Production

Industrial

Commercial Tourism / Hospitality

Airport

CO N C EPark P T:Open R ESpace V I TA L IZ E | I N F I L L | P U B L I C A M E NCommercial I T I E S Local Infrastructure Utilities • M a i n t a i n u n b r a n d e d h o s p i t a l i t y co re fo r u n i q u e i s l a n d c h a r m + c h a r a c te r, v a l u i n g l o c a l c h a r a c te r Mixed Use Residential Medium Density Park Reserve • H o u s i n g: o f fe r r a n g e o f h o u s i n g o p p o r t u n i t i e s i n l ow a n d m e d i u m d e n s i t y t y p o l o g i e s Infrastructure / Civic Residential • I n f r Park a s t Local r u c t u re: f i l l i n u t i l i t i e s; c re a te a n et w o r k of p e d e s t r i a n a n d b i c yc l e - a cce s s i b lLow e Density A i n f r Agriculture astructu re Industrial Residential Low Density B Farming & Food Production • P re s e r v a t i o n: i m p l e m e n t p h a s e d g ro w t h b o Airport undar y Residential Low Density C

Commercial Tourism / Hospitality

Infrastructure Utilities

Commercial Local

C E NMixed T R AUse L GREEN, ADD SITE F U R N I S H I N G S , E N CO U R AG E U S E Infrastructure / Civic F O R CO M M U N I T Y E V E N T S , M A IIndustrial N TA I N H I S TO R I C C H A R AC T E R

Residential Medium Density

Airport E X PA N D O N CO M M E R C I A L CO M M U N I T YUtilities CO R E Infrastructure

Residential Low Density C

Residential Low Density B

INFILL EXISTING Residential Low Density C RESIDENTIAL

Residential Low Density B

FT

A D DResidential M U LT Medium I FA M IDensity LY O F FResidential E R I N G SLowADensity ROUN AD CO R E

Residential Low Density A

AACP LEGEND

R A

AACP LEGEND

D

AACP LEGEND

AG R I C U LT U R E

R E C R E AT I O N S PAC E OPPORTUNIT Y C I V I C CO R E

N AT U R E R E S E R V E - P R OV I D E G R E E N WAYS CO N N E C T I O N S F R O M TOW N C E N T E R TO R E S E R V E CO N N E C T I O N S

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NC NORTH CAICOS | KEW

NC

5.2.3-NORTH CAICOS

| AREA ACTION PLAN

WHITBY REVITALIZE | INFILL | PUBLIC AMENITIES

D

R A

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Whitby is the location that clusters a majority of hospitality accommodation on North Caicos. It is recommended that Whitby remains without branded hotels and resorts and capitalize on quaint, beachside villas. A commercial corridor with retail, commercial, and hospitality-focused businesses within a walkable corridor would be a recommended addition. Low density, residential homes should be clustered together within and surrounding the settlement.

OPPORTUNITIES • Development: establish a hospitality accommodation for natural and cultural tourism; capitalize on farmto-table businesses from North Caicos agricultural products • Housing: offer range of housing opportunities in low density typologies – single family homes, apartments, and condominiums • Infrastructure: ‘finish out’ utilities; create a network of pedestrian and bicycle-accessible infrastructure • Preservation: implement growth boundary

Photo: Agile LeVin - Visit Turks and Caicos Islands (www.visittci.com) 206 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

Park Open Space

Commercial Local

Park Reserve

Mixed Use

Park Local

Infrastructure / Civic

Agriculture Farming & Food Production

Industrial

Commercial Tourism / Hospitality

Airport

Park Open Space

Commercial Local

Infrastructure Utilities

Mixed Use

Residential Medium Density

CO N Park C E PReserve T: T R A D I T I O N A L ( I N L A N D) D E V E LO P M ENT Mixed Use| I N F I L L | M I X E D U S E Residential Medium Density • S t re e t s c a p e s s h o u l d b e i m p rove d to a t t r a c t p u b l i c s p a ce u s a g e a n d g a t h e r i n g s .

Infrastructure / Civic Locals h o u l d s t ay l o w d e n s i t y a n d q u a i n t i n i t s c h a r a c te r ; t h e re s h o u l d b e Residential • WPark h i t by a l o c a l Low a mDensity e n i t yA Industrial foAgriculture c u s . Farming & Food Production Residential Low Density B • OCommercial n l y a l l ow l ow d e n s i t y, v i l l a s a s h o s p i t a l i t y o p t i o n s to m a i n t a i n h i s to r i c c h a r a c te r.

Airport Residential Low Density C Tourism / Hospitality • A l l ow re s i d e n t ia l ex p a n s i o n i n s u b d i v i s i o n s (a s n e e d e d ) s u r ro u n d e d by o p e n s p a ce.

Infrastructure Utilities • I mCommercial p l e m e nLocal t p h a s e d g ro w t h b o u n d a r y.

Residential Low Density A Residential Low Density B Residential Low Density C

S I N G L E FA M I LY E S TAT E LOT S HOUSING AND INFILL

Residential Low Density A Residential Low Density B

DENSIFIED RESIDENTIAL LOT S

Residential Low Density C

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P R OT E C T B E AC H ACC E S S . U T I L IZ E O P E N S PAC E A N D PA R K S PAC E AT R OA D E N DS TO Infrastructure Utilities P R OT E C T V I E W S Residential Medium DensityTO T H E O C E A N

C R E AT E A M I X E D Infrastructure / Civic U S E CO RE W I T HIndustrial INFILL D E V EAirport LO P M E N T AND CIVIC HUB

AACP LEGEND

R A

AACP LEGEND

AACP LEGEND

D

G R E E N WAY OPPORTUNIT Y TO CO N N E C T TO OT H E R SET TLEMENTS

LOW D E N S I T Y RESIDENTIAL OR N AT U R E B A S E D R E S O R T OPPORTUNIT Y

P R E S E R V E E N V I R O N M E N TA L LY SENSITIVE AREAS AND AREAS P R O N E TO F LO O D I N G A S O P E N S PAC E N AT U R E R E S E R V E

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NC NORTH CAICOS | WHITBY

D R A FT

FT

5.3

D

R A

MIDDLE CAICOS

MC

5.3.0- MIDDLE CAICOS | ISLAND OVERVIEW

MIDDLE CAICOS OVERVIEW

FT

Middle Caicos is the largest and least developed of the Turks and Caicos inhabited islands. The population is well under 300 people and is mostly housed within the settlements of Conch Bar, Bambarra and Lorimier. Middle Caicos is known for beauty and stillness. The island is known for the Indian and Conch Bar Caves, as well as the Blue Hole off the southern coast.

island: Dragon Cay. It is recommended that the settlement add just one additional, maximum two, high end hospitality option. As Middle Caicos and North Caicos are the ‘Twin Islands’, there is not necessarily a need to create another governmental hub in Conch Bar; the Bottle Creek civic facilities can also serve Middle Caicos, for any uses other than basic services. If population expansion occurs outside of Conch Bar, Bambarra and Lorimier will also need infrastructural improvements.

Environmentally, Middle Caicos hosts the North, Middle, and East Caicos Nature Reserve (a Ramsar Reserve) and Conch Bar Caves National Park Protected Areas. The Ramsar Nature Reserve has been studied extensively as a component of the Darwin Initiative Project, as it is a wetland of international importance that provides critical habitat for a wide variety of species of interest, and acts as an invaluable keystone in terrestrial and marine food webs. The Conch Bar Caves National Park includes an extensive cave network that stretches across the northern section of Middle Caicos. The Caves are a critical habitat for threatened and rare bat populations and endemic

R A

Middle Caicos is the jewel of the Turks and Caicos – a relatively untouched gem with unique biodiversity that represents all the qualities that the Turks and Caicos has to offer. The island has an unspoiled landscape due to the lack of easy connections to the other islands beyond North Caicos; approximately less than 1% of the island has been impacted by human development.

D

Conch Bar is the main settlement on Middle Caicos, located just east of the causeway connection to North Caicos. The settlement houses most of the population on Middle Caicos, as well as the main resort option on the

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5.3.0- MIDDLE CAICOS | ISLAND OVERVIEW

FT

crustacean populations. Barn owls are also known to frequent the caves. Furthermore, the island is home to many types of flora and fauna that are key species among the greater Turks and Caicos archipelago and beyond.

Among the Turks and Caicos Islands, Middle Caicos is most important to protect from an environmental point of view, due to its pristine nature and the lack of previous development.

R A

Even if Middle Caicos has opportunities for growth in development, similar to Salt Cay, there is a fine line between suitable development and over-development.

The island needs to carefully balance preservation and development in an effort to strike an equilibrium among the built and natural worlds. The current status of infrastructure on Middle Caicos would need to be vastly upgraded if additional development or population growth is expected.

Middle Caicos should be maintained as an island with lowdensity, low height development. In order to maintain local investment into the economy of the island, it should cater to low density uses (environmental and cultural tourism).

Comparatively to other islands, it is recommended that Middle Caicos be not granted a high concentration of built development due to the factors mentioned above. With that said, select low impact catalytic developments could provide a great level of economic security to the people of Middle Caicos. Middle Caicos should be the last focus of potential development projects in the Turks and Caicos comparatively to other islands, except those suggested within this document.

D

There are two sites determined suitable for potential future development: the northwest corner and the northeast corner. As mentioned before, it is recommended that only one, or maximum two, hospitality hotels and/or resorts are developed. To maintain the character and ‘wildness’ of Middle Caicos, adventure or environmental tourism and high end, environmentally-focused hotels

212 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

R A

FT

and resorts will work best on island. Middle Caicos is not the place for branded hotels; it is an island best represented by individuality. These three sites were selected due to various reasons; the northeast corner and east coastline offer exclusivity and pristine beaches.

The northwest corner offers ideal access, adjacency to the main settlement on Middle Caicos (Conch Bar), and a connection to recreational opportunities that already exist and can be improved upon. These hospitality developments should focus on exclusivity and adventure; these are off the beaten path and mainstream of the tourism industry on other islands. They should capitalize on the opportunities to interact with the natural environment on Middle Caicos. The selection of a developer and development must focus on positive community benefits and environmental protection, otherwise the island risks to be severely damaged by improper and irresponsible development – whether for hospitality or residential use.

D

Middle Caicos is ripe for a new industry on a relatively small scale as to not overwhelm the local infrastructure, local population, and economy. Middle Caicos, with a large part of the island dedicated and protected within the North, Middle, and East Nature Reserve, has potential to capitalize on environmental tourism and environmental research and education. It is recommended that the government seeks to attract a research center or educational facility, similar to The School for Field Studies’ Center for Marine Resource Studies on South Caicos, however, an even smaller outpost is most desired to maintain the correct development scale. This would bring development that is minimal in nature, while also providing an added benefit of the expanding the study and the knowledge of the TCI environment.

Infrastructural upgrades should include sidewalks, street trees, and street lighting within Conch Bar and Bambarra.

The local population and tourists will both benefit from an established system of multi-use trails for pedestrians and bicyclists. Connected recreational areas, both formal and informal, will perpetuate an active and healthy community and link varying areas of interest for both locals and tourists. The multi-use trail system, including greenways, should connect North and Middle Caicos.

Recreational and adventure tourism would greatly benefit from a comprehensive network of trails between the

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5.3.0- MIDDLE CAICOS | ISLAND OVERVIEW

• • • •

Jewel of TCI Infrastructure within Conch Bar, plans for Bambarra and Lorimer in future Protected at all costs – growth boundary Environmental-tourism – specific development typology for MC + ST Tan for Middle Caicos and the natural color of the island’s thatch that covered most of the early homes and roofs and today the color represents the crafts of basket weaving, straw hats and brooms

FT

Twin Islands. Additionally, the roads are underutilized due to low traffic volumes. The roads are older, yet currently suitable due to exposure to a light traffic load. Subject to the growth of the island and the potential Spine Link Road at the eastern end of the island, these roads should enjoy another five (5) to ten (10) years of use without the need for significant repair or refurbishment.

•

D

R A

The Middle Caicos utility infrastructure is the most undeveloped of the inhabited islands. There would need to be significant investment into infrastructure on Middle Caicos if development is to occur at a grand scale.

However, as the sister islands are in close proximity to Providenciales, there is potential to extend the grid if needed. Like power the road infrastructure is in decent shape for the current population.

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5 . 3 .1 - M I D D L E C A I C O S

| ISLAND FRAMEWORK

N AT U R A L S Y S T E M S

FT

A ER I A L

ELE VATION

R A

PROTEC TED A R E A & N AT U R A L SYSTEMS &

C R I T I C A L H A B I TAT

D

V E G E TAT I O N

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C O A S TA L R I S K

N AT U R A L C O M P O S I T E

216 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

CRI

B U I LT S Y S T E M S

T R A N S P O R TAT I O N NETWORK

R A

SETTLEMENT & D E V E LO PM E N T N O D ES

FT

A R E A S O F CU LTU R A L & H ISTORIC A L SIG N I FIC A NCE

OWNERSHIP

COMPOSITE

D

B U I LT

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5 . 3 .1 - M I D D L E C A I C O S

| ISLAND FRAMEWORK

LEG EN D Beach Entry

Key Nodes

Snorkeling

Existing Development

Historic Sites

Proposed Ferry Dock/Port

View Points

Proposed Marina

Airport

Proposed Resort/Hotels

Ferry Dock/Port

Points of Interest

Marina

FT

Settlements

Residential Development Area of Concern

National Park/Nature Reserve

R A

Proposed Agricultural Land Land to be Preserved Critical Areas Reefs

Historical Interest Beach/Waterfront Access Primary Circulation (Existing)

D

Primary Circulation (Proposed) Secondary Circulation Potential Water Connections Potential Land Connections Greenway Trail/Promenade Salina Boundary

Photos: Agile LeVin Visit Turks and Caicos Islands (www.visittci.com) 218 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

M A R I N A DE V ELOPM ENT P OTENTI A L Exceptional Opportunity Good Opportunity Moderate Potential

WEST EAST

MIDDLE CAICOS FRAMEWORK PLAN

FT

PLAN

P OTENTI A L LOC ATIO N F O R FUTU RE TOU RISM DE V ELOPM ENT “ V I E W P O I NT ”

C AUSE WAY TO NORTH C A ICOS

SA LT C AY A R E A OF H ISTORIC AL I NTER EST

PLATICO POINT

R A

E A SY ACCESS TO DEEP WATER

P OTENTI A L LOC ATIO N F O R EN V I RO N M ENTA L TOU RISM RESORT

INDIAN CAVES

NORTHEAST POINT HALOUVER POINT

BAMBARA BEACH

CONCH BAR

CONCH BAR CAVES

BAMBARA

AIRPORT

FLAMINGO POND

P OTENTI A L LOC ATION F O R H IG H EN D EN V I RO N M ENTA L TOU RISM RESORT A LTER N ATI V ES: EDUC ATION A L O PP O RTU N ITI ES NON PROFIT/ NGO CENTERS

LORIMERS

D

M I DDLE C A ICOS N ATU R E R ES ERV E

BIRD POND

FUTU RE CON N EC TION TO E A ST C A ICOS

OCE A N H O LE N ATU R E R ES ERV E

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5 . 3 .1 - M I D D L E C A I C O S

| ISLAND FRAMEWORK

WEST P OTENTI A L LOC ATIO N F O R FUTU RE TOU RISM DE V ELOPM ENT “ V I E W P O I NT ”

C AUSE WAY TO N ORTH C A ICOS

P OTENTI A L LOC ATIO N F O R EN V I RO N M ENTA L TOU RISM RESORT

E A SY ACCESS TO DEEP WATER

SA LT C AY A O F H ISTO ISTOR R I NTER

PLATICO POINT

INDIAN CAVES

FT

BAMBARA BEACH

CONCH BAR

CONCH BAR CAVES

BAMBARA

AIRPORT

D

R A

FLAMINGO POND

OCE A N H OLE N ATU R E R ES ERV E

ENLARGEMENT

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M I DDLE C A ICOS N ATU R E R ES ERV E

EAST

POTENTI P OTENTI A L LOC ATIO N F O R EN V I RON RO N M ENTA L TOU RISM RESORT

SA LT C AY A R E A OF H ISTORIC AL I NTER EST

CO T NORTHEAST POINT

ES

BAMBARA

FLAMINGO FLAMI LAMINGO NGO POND D

HALOUVER POINT

FT

BAMBARA BEACH

P OTENTI A L LOC ATION F O R H IG H EN D EN V I RO N M ENTA L TOU RISM RESORT

A LTER N ATI V ES: EDUC ATION A L O PP O RTU N ITI ES NON PROFIT/ N GO CENTERS

R A

LORIMERS

D

M I DDLE C A ICOS N ATU R E R ES ERV E RE RESERV

BIRD POND

FUTU RE CON N EC TION TO E A ST C A ICOS

ENLARGEMENT

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LEG EN D Park Open Space Park Local Park Reserve

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Park National

Agriculture Farming & Food Production Commercial Tourism / Hospitality Commercial Local Mixed Use

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Infrastructure Utilities Future Community Development (Residential / Open Space) Residential High Density Residential Medium Density Residential Low Density A Residential Low Density B Residential Low Density C

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PLAN

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MIDDLE CAICOS PROPOSED LAND USE PLAN

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5.3.2- MIDDLE CAICOS

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ENLARGEMENT

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5.3.2- MIDDLE CAICOS

| LAND USE

CONCH BAR ENVIRONMENTAL TOURISM | INFILL WITH MIXED USE | LOCAL AMENITIES | RE-ENERGIZE

D

R A

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Conch Bar is the main settlement on Middle Caicos, located just east of the causeway connection to North Caicos. The settlement houses the majority of the population on Middle Caicos, as well as the main resort option on the island: Dragon Cay. The settlement may add another hospitality option (two maximum) within town and will capitalize on environmental tourism. As Middle Caicos and North Caicos are the ‘twin islands’, there is not necessarily a need to create another governmental hub in Conch Bar; Middle Caicos should reference Bottle Creek for anything other than basic services.

OPPORTUNITIES • Housing: low density residential • Development: environmental tourism to the west that connects with Dragon Cay Resort; mixed use opportunities within core of settlement; follow ‘neighborhood center’ ideals for core; governmental building, of which all services required for Middle Caicos residents are located at the same location • Preservation: maintain growth boundary around settlement; preserve Indian Caves • Infrastructure: implement remaining infrastructure needed for growth or local and/or tourism population

Photos: Agile LeVin - Visit Turks and Caicos Islands (www.visittci.com) 226 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

Park Open Space

Commercial Local

Park Reserve

Mixed Use

Park Local

Infrastructure / Civic

Agriculture Farming & Food Production

Industrial

Commercial Tourism / Hospitality

Airport

CO N CPark E P T: EN V I R O N M E N TA L TO U R I S M | I N F I L LCommercial W I T H MLocal I X E D U S E | LO C A L A M E NInfrastructure I T I E S | RUtilities E - E N E R G IZ E Open Space • C re a te a d d i t i o n a l o p p o r t u n i t i e s fo r v i s i to r s to s e e + co n n e c t w i t h t h e i s l a n d ’s n a t u r a l b eaut y Mixed Use Residential Medium Density Park Reserve v ia b i ke a n d p e d e s t r ia n p a t h s .

Park • Ta rg etLocal c u l t u r a l a n d e n v i ro n m e n t a l to u r i s t s wInfrastructure i t h h o p i t/ aCivic l i t y t y p o l o g i e s a n d ‘ w i lResidential d n e s s’. Low Density A • P reAgriculture s e r ve tFarming h e n a&t Food u r a lProduction b e a u t y of t h e i s l a n d . Industrial Residential Low Density B • M aCommercial i n t a i n a Tourism n d ex/pHospitality a n d (a s n e e d e d ) d eve l o p mAirport e n t i n C o n c h B a r to s t re n g t h e n s Residential e t t l e m eLow n t Density co re. C Commercial Local

Infrastructure Utilities

Industrial

Residential Low Density B

CO N CMixed H BA R C AV E S - C R E AT E O P P O RT U N I T I E S Residential F O R V IMedium S I TO RDensity EXPERIENCE Use M I X E D U S E / H I S TO R I C CO R E - I N F I L L W I T H M I X E D U S E D E V E LO P M E N T, I N F I L L Residential Low Density A W I T H Infrastructure C I V I C / M/UCivic N I C I PA L CO R E / H OS P I TA L I T Y O P P O R T U N I T Y

FT

O P P O RT U N I T Y TO R E V I TA L IZ E A I R P O RT I N LO N G T E R M .

Residential Low Density C CO N SAirport I D E R P R I VAT E P L A N E A N D H E L I P O RT T R A F F I C U P DAT E S Utilities F O R TInfrastructure H E S H O RT TERM I N D I A Residential N C AV EMedium S - E XDensity PA N D TO U R I S M E X P E R I E N C E + P R E S E R V E E X I S TResidential I N G D R Low AG Density O N CAAY R E S O RT Residential Low Density B Residential Low Density C

AACP LEGEND

R A

AACP LEGEND

D

AACP LEGEND

P R E S E R V E C R OW N L A N D I N I T S N AT U R A L S TAT E - A D D N AT U R E T R A I L S + CO N N E C T TO P R E S E R V E / R E S E R V E TO T H E S O U T H O P P O R T U N I T Y F O R R E C R E AT I O N A L B U S I N E S S E S + T R A I L H E A D N O D E S E M B E D D E D W I T H I N N AT U R A L L A N DS C A P E O P P O R T U N I T Y TO E X PA N D U P O N R E C R E AT I O N A L S PAC E W I T H C U R R E N T T R A I L S

AREA ACTION PLAN - ENLARGEMENT

CAICOS | CONCH BAR MC MIDDLE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 227

D R A FT

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5.4

D

R A

SOUTH CAICOS

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5.4.0- SOUTH CAICOS | ISLAND OVERVIEW

SOUTH CAICOS OVERVIEW

FT

South Caicos is known for its historic ties to the fishing and boating industries. At the beginning of the XXth century, the island was home to the most intense economic activity in the archipelago, focusing on salt production, but today it is more laid back and involves mostly small-scale fishing.

The population, less than 1,500, works mainly within the tourism or fishing industries. As the island is steeped in history, South Caicos holds the South Caicos Regatta annually and Cockburn Harbour, the main settlement, is home to numerous historic buildings. South Caicos has a large terrestrial and marine park, called Admiral Cockburn Land and Sea National Park. The park is located along the south and east coasts and comprises of over 400 acres of land and sea.

Marine Resource Studies, South Caicos has the potential to become a hub for cultural heritage tourism. Historic preservation is an investment in community building and the future attraction of tourism dollars and community cohesion. In tandem with an upgrade to the historic buildings and settlement in Cockburn Harbour, the island is in desperate need of civic infrastructural improvements.

The upgraded education structures were a great start, but these improvements need to be tied to policies that improve the educational offerings. The island currently has an issue with young people leaving because of lack opportunities. The implementation of education programs that advance secondary education or trade schools would be extremely beneficial. This would need investment up front from the government and could get further traction through public-private partnerships with local businesses.

Such programs could generate interest in local jobs and entrepreneurship opportunities and help keep the younger population on island.

D

R A

Rehabilitate | Infill | Civic Infrastructure | Waterfront to Salina connection With annual events like the South Caicos Regatta and many historic buildings like the Boiling House, Call House, Conch Ground, and The School for Field Studies’ Center for

230 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

FT R A

D TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 231

SC

5.4.0- SOUTH CAICOS | ISLAND OVERVIEW

FT

South Caicos is ripe with opportunity for implementing new industries into the island economy. Aquaculture and hydroponics are new markets that South Caicos could capitalize on within a shortened time frame. As South Caicos is one of three islands with a network of utilities and infrastructure, there would be less investment comparatively to other islands. South Caicos also has the opportunity to connect this new industry with or on the outer edge of the main settlement, Cockburn Harbour.

The ease of moving imports and exports from a facility to the marina, harbour, or airport will be attractive for new businesses and industries.

R A

An easy, quick way to bring in monetary benefits directly to the community would be to continue to capitalize on the tourism industry. This industry has high potential if focused on how South Caicos stands out from the other islands – particularly focusing on the fishing harbour, historic events, and recreational opportunities on land and sea. Investment in helping tourism-related businesses get their foot in the door should be made to local residents who could provide these services, such as a dive shop, fishing shop, and others.

D

South Caicos is historically known for the fishing and boating industry; however, those industries have suffered setbacks in the past decade due to growth and investment having been focused on other islands and due to the impact and effects of natural disasters. The fishing industry infrastructure is still in place and could be rehabilitated and upgraded to a level where it is competitive and economically viable. A marina would be an ideal pairing with the upgraded harbour infrastructure to attract larger boats and create a marina village at the heart of Cockburn Harbour. A marina to attract larger private vessels in addition to an upgraded harbour infrastructure and the development of a marina village at the heart of Cockburn

232 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

Harbour would provide significant opportunities for future development.

FT

Because over 60% of the land is privately owned development control on South Caicos is rather limited.

Rehabilitation and revitalization will require public private partnerships (P3) to truly have apositive community impact and enhance prosperity. Public private partnerships should focus on projects to revitalize Cockburn Harbour and large scale infrastructural projects, such as the scenic byway.

and healthy community and link varying areas of interest for both locals and tourists. The multi-use trail system, including greenways, should connect to the settlement of Cockburn Harbour; the settlement should improve its walkability with pedestrian infrastructure and implement a waterfront promenade to connect businesses and provide stunning viewings of the water.

The power grid and electrical poles need to be upgraded on an ongoing basis. The cellular service is moderate at best and requires improvement. Regarding water services.

There is no private mains water provider or water mains network in South Caicos. A TCIG RO Plant provides water in limited quantities., therefore there is need for more resilient potable water source.

R A

The southeast side of the island is comprised of large swathes of land that have been deemed critically important habitats. To strengthen their vitality, a scenic byway should be implemented to provide passive tourism experiences and recreational activities for both local residents and tourists. The scenic byway would be the only development and/or infrastructure allowed other than pedestrian or nonmotorized transportation multi-use trails.

Utilities on South Caicos also need reinvestment and expansion. The ‘new’ airport structure has been deemed inadequate due to damage from a previous hurricane.

The airport is in need of improvement to adequately serve the current residents and tourist population, as well as accommodate the expected future increase in air travel.

South Caicos is comprised of a land and sea national park, a nature reserve and an area of historic interest. These areas should be continually protected from irresponsible, not locally-driven development. With South Caicos having a ‘wildness’ to the island, in that it has really focuses development at key nodes, it is important to maintain protection of the untouched, natural features, which are critical to local flora and fauna.

D

The northern-most point on the peninsula – Platico Point – should become a recreation node for both locals and tourists. Platico Point offers stunning views, clear water, and opportunities to develop bonefishing camps, which, again, would be beneficial economically to both locals and tourists. Small-scale fishing, bonefishing included, offer an opportunity as tourist attraction if the correct infrastructure is added – supporting structures/buildings, fishing shops within Cockburn Harbour, and knowledgeable guides.

Bonefishing camps can be implemented along the eastern coast to take advantage of the fishing zone within Admiral Cockburn Land and Sea National Park.

South Caicos has the most potential with a large amount of reinvestment and rehabilitation from years of hurricane damage, yet this investment is vital if an increase in tourism is desired or expected and if new opportunities are brought to the island.

• • • • •

Historical Rehabilitation Fishing Industry - Marina Education opportunities Public Private Partnerships Orange for South and East Caicos showing off the colors of the spiny lobster and fish as well as the fishing industry in South Caicos

Infrastructural upgrades should include sidewalks, street trees, and street lighting. The local population and tourists will both benefit from an established system of multi-use trails for pedestrians and bicyclists. Connected recreational areas, both formal and informal, will perpetuate an active TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 233

SC

5 . 4 .1 - S O U T H C A I C O S | I S L A N D F R A M E W O R K N AT U R A L S Y S T E M S

A ER I A L

R A

PROTEC TED A R E A & N AT U R A L S Y S T E M S

FT

ELE VATION

C R I T I C A L H A B I TAT

D

V E G E TAT I O N

C O A S TA L R I S K

N AT U R A L C O M P O S I T E

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A R E A S O F CU LTU R A L & H ISTORIC A L SIG N I FIC A NCE

R A

T R A N S P O R TAT I O N NETWORK

FT

B U I LT S Y S T E M S

SETTLEMENT & D E V E LO PM E N T N O D ES

D

OWNERSHIP

B U I LT

COMPOSITE

*REFER TO THE APPENDIX A3.1 FOR ADDITIONAL ANALYSIS DOCUMENTATION TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 235

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5 . 4 .1 - S O U T H C A I C O S | I S L A N D F R A M E W O R K

LEG EN D Beach Entry

Key Nodes

Snorkeling

Existing Development

Historic Sites

Proposed Ferry Dock/Port

View Points

Proposed Marina

Airport

Proposed Resort/Hotels

Ferry Dock/Port

Points of Interest

Marina

FT

Settlements

Residential Development Area of Concern

National Park/Nature Reserve

R A

Proposed Agricultural Land Land to be Preserved Critical Areas Reefs

Historical Interest Beach/Waterfront Access Primary Circulation (Existing)

D

Primary Circulation (Proposed) Secondary Circulation Potential Water Connections Potential Land Connections Greenway Trail/Promenade Salina Boundary

Photos: Agile LeVin Visit Turks and Caicos Islands (www.visittci.com) 236 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

M A R I N A DE V ELOPM ENT P OTENTI A L Exceptional Opportunity Good Opportunity Moderate Potential

PLAN P OTENTI A L ISL A N D LI N K C AUSE WAY

SOUTH CAICOS FRAMEWORK PLAN

SA I L ROCK

FT

A DM I R A L COCKB U R N LAND AND SEA N ATIO N A L PA R K

FISH I NG A RE A

LONG BEACH

SAILROCK PENINSULA

PRI M A RY ROA D

B ELL SOU N D N ATIO N A L PA R K

NORTH

R A

FUTU RE I N FI LL DE V ELOPM ENT

CRITIC A L H A B ITAT BON E FISH I NG CAMP

FUTU RE RESORT H IG H EN D

A DM I R A L COCKBU RN LAND AND S E A N ATIO N A L PA RK

BELL SOUND

GOAT HILL

FUTU RE I N FI LL DE V ELOPM ENT

AIRPORT

THE VALLEY

VICTORIA SALINA

WEST SOUND

D

CRITIC A L H A B ITAT

TH E PON D & TH E SA LI N A

CRITIC A L H A B ITAT CON N EC TION CO N N EC T ECO LOG I C A L FU N C TI O N S

THE HIGHLANDS

THE POND

SCEN IC BY WAY

- PRO P OS ED TOU R IS M DE V ELO PM ENT -A DA PTI V E R EUS E

HIGHLANDS BAY

N ATU R E R ES ERV E BOILING HOLE

EXISTING PORT & FERRY TERMINAL

FIS H I N G ZO N E

EAST BAY

COCKBURN HARBOUR

- H I S TO R I C R E V ITA LIZ ATI O N / PR ES ERVATI O N - M I X ED US E DE V ELO PM ENT - FIS H I N G I N DUSTRY A N D FISH I N G V I LL AG E

FISH PROCESSING PLANTS GIRL’S BAY

N O FIS H I N G

A DM I R A L COCKB U R N LAND AND SEA N ATIO N A L PA R K

* Refer to enlargements on the following pages

E X ISTI NG RESO RTS M I D R A NG E

SHARK BAY

FUTU RE RESORT M I D R A NG E

SOUTH-WEST SOUTH-EAST

H ISTORIC URBA N CORE COCKBU RN H A R BOU R + CONCH G ROUN D

A DM I R A L COCKB U R N LAND AND SEA N ATIO N A L PA R K

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 237

5 . 4 .1 - S O U T H C A I C O S | I S L A N D F R A M E W O R K

D

R A

FT

SC

238 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

NORTH PLANDON CAY CUT

FT

P OTENTI A L ISL A N D LI N K C AUSE WAY

R A

SA I L ROCK

LONG BEACH

D

SAILROCK PENINSULA

B ELL SOU N D N ATIO N A L PA R K

A DM I R A L COCKB U R N LAND AND SEA N ATIO N A L PA R K

FISH I NG A RE A

PRI M A RY ROA D

FUTU RE RESORT H IG H EN D

FUTU RE R E I N FI LL DE V ELOPM ENT

A DM I R A L

ENLARGEMENT

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 239

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5 . 4 .1 - S O U T H C A I C O S | I S L A N D F R A M E W O R K SOUTH-WEST

CRITIC A L H A B ITAT BON E FISH I NG CAMP

FT

FUTU RE I N FI LL DE V ELOPM ENT

BELL SOUND

GOAT HILL

R A

AIRPORT

VICTORIA SALINA

WEST SOUND

CRITIC A L H A B ITAT

TH E PON D & TH E SA LI N A

THE HIGHLANDS

THE POND

D

- PRO P OS ED TOU R IS M DE V ELO PM ENT -A DA PTI V E R EUS E

N ATU R E R ES ERV E

BOILING HOLE

EXISTING PORT & FERRY TERMINAL

H ISTORIC URBA N CORE COCKBU RN H A R BOU R + CONCH G ROUN D

- H I S TO R I C R E V ITA LIZ ATI O N / PR ES ERVATI O N - M I X ED US E DE V ELO PM ENT - FIS H I N G I N DUSTRY A N D FISH I N G V I LL AG E

EAST BAY

COCKBURN HARBOUR FISH PROCESSING PLANTS GIRL’S BAY

E X ISTI NG RESORTS MID RANGE

N O FIS H I N G ENLARGEMENT 240 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

FUTU RE R M I D R A NG NG

SOUTH-EAST

H IG H EN D

FUTU RE I N FI LL DE V ELOPM ENT

FT

A DM I R A L COCKBU RN LAND AND S E A N ATIO N A L PA RK

BELL SOUND

AT HILL

R A

FUTU RE I N FI LL DE V ELOPM ENT

VICTORIA SALINA

THE HIGHLANDS

D

THE POND

THE VALLEY

CRITIC A L H A B ITAT CON N EC TION CO N N EC T ECO LOG I C A L FU N C TI O N S

SCEN IC BY WAY HIGHLANDS BAY

BOILING HOLE

FIS H I N G ZO N E

EAST BAY

GIRL’S BAY GIR

O FISH FIS H I N G NG

E X ISTI NG RESO RESORTS RTS M I D R A NG E

SHARK BAY

FUTU RE RESORT MID RANGE ENLARGEMENT

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 241

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5.4.2- SOUTH CAICOS | LAND USE

LEG EN D Park Open Space Park Local Park Reserve

FT

Park National

Agriculture Farming & Food Production Commercial Tourism / Hospitality Commercial Local Mixed Use

Infrastructure / Civic

D

R A

Industrial Airport

Infrastructure Utilities Future Community Development (Residential / Open Space) Residential High Density Residential Medium Density Residential Low Density A Residential Low Density B Residential Low Density C

242 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

PLAN

FT

SOUTH CAICOS PROPOSED LAND USE PLAN

* Refer to enlargements on the following pages

SOUTH-WEST SOUTH-EAST

D

R A

NORTH

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 243

5.4.2- SOUTH CAICOS | LAND USE

D

R A

FT

SC

244 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

D

R A

FT

NORTH

ENLARGEMENT TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 245

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5.4.2- SOUTH CAICOS | LAND USE

D

R A

FT

SOUTH-WEST

ENLARGEMENT 246 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

D

R A

FT

SOUTH-EAST

ENLARGEMENT TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 247

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5.4.3- SOUTH CAICOS | AREA ACTION PLAN

COCKBURN HARBOUR REHABILITATE | INFILL | CIVIC INFRASTRUCTURE | WATERFRONT TO SALINA CONNECTION

D

R A

FT

Cockburn Harbour lies on the western edge of South Caicos. It is the main settlement of South Caicos, and is made up of a mixed-use core with all components of infrastructure: commercial, governmental, historic/cultural, but also residentail uses.

OPPORTUNITIES • Housing: additional long-term housing • Development: capitalize on historical and cultural tourism; ‘urban’ hospitality option; multi-family, medium density housing; sports and recreation additions; greenway through settlement which connects to the reminder of island; farm-to-table from local fishing harbour • Preservation: preserve critical habitat north of settlement; preserve waterfront from erosion and over-use; connection between ocean and salina; preserve fishing harbour • Infrastructure: upgrade missing utilities; add ferry stop within settlement core

Photo: Agile LeVin - Visit Turks and Caicos Islands (www.visittci.com) 248 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

Park Open Space

Commercial Local

Park Reserve

Mixed Use

Park Local

Infrastructure / Civic

Agriculture Farming & Food Production

Industrial

Commercial Tourism / Hospitality

Airport

Commercial Tourism / Hospitality

Airport

Residential Low Density C

Commercial Local

Infrastructure Utilities

Mixed Use

Residential Medium Density

CO N C E P T: R E H A B I L I TAT E | I N F I L L | C I V I C I N F R ACommercial S T R U C TLocal U R E | WAT E R F R O N T TO S A L I N A Infrastructure Utilities Park Open Space • B u i l d u p o n t h e s u cce s s f u l m a r i n a co re + eve n t s • I n f r aPark s t rReserve u c t u re: u p g r a d e m i s s i n g u t i l i t i e s; a d dMixed fe r rUse y s to p w i t h i n s et t l e m e n t co reResidential Medium Density • E x p Park a n dLocal t h e p u b l i c re a l m to co n n e c t t h e tow nInfrastructure f ro m t h e/ Civic s a l i n a to t h e w a te r a n dResidential to e d uLow c a tDensity i o n a lA land uses Industrial Residential Low Density B Agriculture Farming & Food Production • I n c re a s e a n d rev i t a l ize t h e co re to c re a te u n i f i c a t i o n w i t h t h e w a te r f ro n t P R E S E R V E C R I T I C A L H A B I TAT

C R E AT E Airport

HIGHER DENSIT Y A LO N G T H E H I G H WAY Infrastructure Utilities CO N N E C T I N G T H E TOW N TO Residential Medium Density THE AIRPORT Residential Low Density A Residential Low Density B Residential Low Density C

Residential Low Density A Residential Low Density B Residential Low Density C

FT

HIGH SCHOOL / HIGHER Infrastructure / Civic E D U C AT I O N E X PA N S I O N OPPORTUNIT Y Industrial

AACP LEGEND

C R E AT E S A F E P E D E S T R I A N ACC E S S F R O M S C H O O L S TO WAT E R F R O N T

R A

AACP LEGEND

D

AACP LEGEND

P R O P OS E D M A R I N A WAT E R F R O N T, A D D F E R RY T E R M I N A L , E X PA N D M A R I N A O F F E R I N G S , U P DAT E F I S H I N G H A R B O U R TO P R O M OT E F I S H I N G E CO N O M Y

SCHOOL

P OT E N T I A L AQ UAC U LT U R E OPPORTUNIT Y WITH SALINAS

C A P I TA L IZ E O N U R B A N CO R E , R E V I TA L IZ E + E N H A N C E TO E X PA N D O N F I S H I N G V I L L AG E V I B E M U N I C I PA L CO R E O P P O RT U N I T Y E D U C AT I O N O P P O RT U N I T Y

C A P I TA L IZ E O N U R B A N CO R E , R E V I TA L IZ E + E N H A N C E TO E X PA N D O N M A R I N A V I L L AG E V I B E SCHOOL OF FIELD STUDIES

C R E AT E S T R O N G , P U B L I C R E A L M WAT E R F R O N T CO N N E C T I O N

SC SOUTH CAICOS | COCKBURN HARBOUR

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 249

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

D R A FT

FT

5.5

D

R A

GRAND TURK

GT

5.5.0- GRAND TURK | ISLAND OVERVIEW

GRAND TURK OVERVIEW

FT

Grand Turk is the second most populous island and houses the capital of TCI, Cockburn Town. Grand Turk is the historic, governmental center of the Turks and Caicos Islands. The island is the second smallest of the inhabited islands and is the other half of the Turks Islands with Salt Cay. The employment make-up of Grand Turk, of the less than 5,000 people, stems from the tourism industry, a majority of which is from the Grand Turk Cruise Center and related businesses, and government employment.

Grand Turk has a variety of neighborhoods with a range of housing typologies – estates, single-family homes, and multi-family. The main neighborhoods of Grand Turk include Cockburn Town, Over Back, Breezy Brae, and XXX. Grand Turk is home to the Grand Turk Lighthouse, National Museum, and numerous nearby dive and snorkeling sites, as well as historic salinas.

With Grand Turk being the historic and current center of governmental services, the island should condense and focus key services from specific, accessible locations rather than scattered locations. One or two key locations for governmental services will save time and money, while also allowing for easier cross-collaboration. It is recommended to house all services within a government center.

Infrastructural upgrades should include sidewalks, street trees, and street lighting. The local population and tourists will both benefit from an established system of multi-use trails for pedestrians and bicyclists. Connected recreational areas, both formal and informal, will perpetuate an active and healthy community and link varying areas of interest for both locals and tourists.

R A

Cockburn Town has great potential as a mixed-use core for Grand Turk. The settlement has historic value, a central island location, a strong commercial presence along the major thoroughfare compared to other parts of the island, a cluster of governmental services, and great potential for being at the center of island catalytic projects.

D

Strengthen | Historic Rehabilitation | Green Street | Pedestrian Promenade

252 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

FT R A

D TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 253

GT

5.5.0- GRAND TURK | ISLAND OVERVIEW

R A

FT

Front Street has great potential to grow Grand Turks establishment as a top-tier tourist destination. The street acts a pedestrian-friendly destination for tourists and locals.

The entire linear corridor should be infilled with businesses and civic amenities; businesses geared towards tourists fill the southern end, such as boutique hotels, restaurants, bars, dive shops and hotels, local shops, and public spaces and beaches, while the northern end of the corridor and businesses along Pond Street are establishments geared more towards locals, such as the library, bank, local utilities, cultural and social gathering spaces, and civic infrastructure. The corridor has a mix of businesses around the center of the corridor that attract both local residents and tourists alike, such as the National Museum.

By capitalizing on strengthening the Front Street corridor, the island can drive tourism dollars away from the cruise port and into the pockets of local residents and directly into the local economy. Front Street already contains the feeling of a one-of-a-kind place; it is recommended that Grand Turk capitalize on infill development, for hotels specifically, revitalization and rehabilitation of historic buildings and spaces, and infrastructure enhancements.

D

Environmentally, Grand Turk should preserve all undeveloped land to the greatest extent. Currently, the island only retains 20% of the total land area as Crown Land. The island has sprawled to all coastlines and should focus on clustering development of similar land uses or compatible land uses together. Settlements should have a nodal center with supporting services for the residents, like community centers, public space, and local food supplies. Unfinished or incomplete developments should be prioritized for infill prior to new development proposals, especially those of residential use. Grand Turk has many established settlements that should be infilled with completed developments prior to allowing for new developments on greenfields or previously undeveloped land. This does not mean an increase in density, but rather, a full build out that will make the investment in necessary

TUR MOLORIAE RE NECATA SI DOLO EIUM FUGIA VOLENE SIN EST, QUAM DOLES ATET RENIS SAM ASSEQUAM, OMNIMUS ARUM ESTISTIA

254 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

Grand Turk consists of many natural and built wonders: Columbus Landfall National Park, numerous reefs, South Creek, Gibbs Cay, the Grand Turk Lighthouse, the National Museum, and beautiful beaches, among others. These natural wonders, cultural heritage sites, and historic amenities should be preserved and promoted.

FT

infrastructure worth it for the monetary cost.

The South Creek National Park is the most critical natural habitat on Grand Turk. The area should be continually protected and celebrated for the ecosystem services it provides for the island.

North Creek presents an interesting opportunity to promote a marina development that would be protected from the rough weather the coastline experiences during unpredictable storms. The proposed marina development would attract transient boaters and high-caliber tourists visiting Grand Turk for a short trip or a cruise stop.

R A

Grand Turk has a network of historic salinas that should be improved and capitalized on for economic opportunities. A large-scale infrastructure project could connect the Town Pond to the Red Salinas and further to the coastline. This connection would provide for the ‘flushing’ of the salinas, which will make them more attractive. The connected salinas could provide opportunities for waterfront dining, passive recreational activities, and a potential greenway or promenade granting connected access from the southernmost point of the salinas to the Town Pond and beyond.

This large scale project could have great economic benefits for the local community and prove to be a huge asset to island beautification.

The Grand Turk Cruise Center (GTCC) is an important employment and tourism node on Grand Turk. The GTCC functions well for its internal purposes – to make money for the Carnival Cruise line but is lacking on its connection with the local community. There is currently a disconnect between the success of the GTCC and the local vendors, and therefore, indirectly, the local economy. The GTCC should integrate local vendors within the Center, compared to the current situation of allowing the vendors to set up shop on the outskirts. The terminal should expand to the northern coastline parcels to better integrate local, cultural retail and amenity services with the GTCC vendors, services, and businesses.

D

The current landfill (dump) site is a present and future detriment to Grand Turk and its people. Presently, the site is an environmental disaster, leaking into the Town Pond, catching fire due to irresponsible waste disposal, and acting as a local eyesore for the adjacent properties and island as a whole. The site has exponential potential for site remediation and adaptive reuse. The government should issue a study for alternatives to waste disposal for a population of similar size to the Turks and Caicos Islands. A new landfill site should be selected while proposed study is being completed. Simultaneously, the government should hire a firm for site remediation of the current landfill site.

There are numerous projects around the world, of varying cost, size, and level of intensity, that provide an example of a contaminated site that was remediated for healthy and safe human use. Site remediation is the only option for the current landfill site due to the severity of the detrimental effects on both the built and natural environment.

The Grand Turk Lighthouse is a historic find on the island.

The site has turned into a tourism destination operated by a subsidy of the GTCC/Carnival. The area is out-of-the-way from other more popular destinations, such as Front Street.

The lighthouse serves as an excellent destination from the GTCC, as it can be seen as an ‘adventure’ to reach. There is revitalization potential if the site is to be more closely tied with the vacant military base and local community college; this area can become a bigger hub for activity and implement more recreational opportunities.

• • • • • • •

Tourism vs Local Development Government Center Development Cluster Large-scale, BIG transformative projects Salinas Marina / North Creek Red for Grand Turk representing the red/pink fruit of the national plant, the Turks Head Cactus

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 255

GT

5 . 5 .1 - G R A N D T U R K | I S L A N D F R A M E W O R K N AT U R A L S Y S T E M S

A ER I A L

R A

PROTEC TED A R E A & N AT U R A L S Y S T E M S

FT

ELE VATION

AREAS OF O U T S TA N D I N G BEAUT Y

C R I T I C A L H A B I TAT

D

V E G E TAT I O N

C O A S TA L R I S K

N AT U R A L C O M P O S I T E

256 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

*REFER TO THE APPENDIX A3.1 FOR ADDITIONAL ANALYSIS DOCUMENTATION

A R E A S O F CU LTU R A L & H ISTORIC A L SIG N I FIC A NCE

R A

T R A N S P O R TAT I O N NETWORK

FT

B U I LT S Y S T E M S

SETTLEMENT & D E V E LO PM E N T N O D ES

D

OWNERSHIP

B U I LT

COMPOSITE

*REFER TO THE APPENDIX A3.1 FOR ADDITIONAL ANALYSIS DOCUMENTATION TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 257

GT

5 . 5 .1 - G R A N D T U R K | I S L A N D F R A M E W O R K

LEG EN D Beach Entry

Key Nodes

Snorkeling

Existing Development

Historic Sites

Proposed Ferry Dock/Port

View Points

Proposed Marina

Airport

Proposed Resort/Hotels

Ferry Dock/Port

Points of Interest

Marina

FT

Settlements

Residential Development Area of Concern

National Park/Nature Reserve

R A

Proposed Agricultural Land Land to be Preserved Critical Areas Reefs

Historical Interest Beach/Waterfront Access Primary Circulation (Existing)

D

Primary Circulation (Proposed) Secondary Circulation Potential Water Connections Potential Land Connections Greenway Trail/Promenade Salina Boundary

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

258 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

M A R I N A DE V ELOPM ENT P OTENTI A L Exceptional Opportunity Good Opportunity Moderate Potential

PLAN

H ISTORIC LIG HTH OUSE

NORTHEAST POINT

COLU M BUS L A N DFA LL M A R I N E N ATIO N A L PA R K

GRAND TURK FRAMEWORK PLAN

FT

RESIDENTIAL ESTATE LOTS P OTENTI A L MARINA

NORTH CREEK

NORTH W ELLS N ATU R E RESERV E

PILLORY BEACH

NORTH WELLS

P OTENTI A L FER RY TER M I N A L

RESIDENTIAL SM A LLER LOTS / M U LTI - FA M I LY H ISTORIC I NTER EST TOW N SA LI N A / R ED SA LI N A “ ECO TOU RISM ”

R A

NORTH CREEK GATE WAY

GRAND TURK SALT SALINAS

- P OTENTI A L I M PROV EM ENT F O R WATER Q UA LIT Y

TOWN POND

NATIONAL MUSEUM

L A N DFI LL SITE REM EDIATION

THE SALT HOUSE

NORTH SOUTH

FRONT STREE T

-TOU R IS M / H OS PITA LIT Y

- FER RY DOCK

H ERITAG E GATE WAY

COCKBU RN TOW N

MASTERSONS POINT

D

- DOW NTOW N - R E V ITA LIZ ATI O N F O R LOC A L US E - M I X ED US E

ENGLISH POINT CONCH WORLD

G I B BS C AY LAND AND SEA N ATIO N A L PA R K

AIRPORT

A I R P O RT GATE WAY N ATU R E RESERV E GOVERNOR ’ S MANSION

SOUTH CREEK N ATIO N A L PA RK

SOUTH WELLS WATERLOO GOLF COURSE

SOUTH W ELLS N ATU R E RESERV E

GOVERNOR’S BEACH

- PRO P OS ED H OTEL S ITE EXISTING PORT & FERRY TERMINAL

GUN HILL

P OTENTI A L MARINA CRUISE CENTER

SNORKELI NG REEFS

* Refer to enlargements on the following pages

BOABY ROCK POINT

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 259

GT

5 . 5 .1 - G R A N D T U R K | I S L A N D F R A M E W O R K

NORTH

NORTHEAST POINT

H ISTORIC LIG HTH OUSE

FT

CO LU M BUS L A N DFA LL M A R I N E N ATIO N A L PA R K

R A

RESIDENTIAL ESTATE LOTS P OTENTI A L MARINA

NORTH CREEK

PILLORY BEACH

NORTH WELLS

D

N ORTH W ELLS N ATU R E RESERV E

N ORTH CREEK GATE WAY

GRAND TURK SALT SALINAS TOWN POND NATIONAL MUSEUM

THE SALT HOUSE

FRONT

ENLARGEMENT 260 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

P OTENTI A L FER RY TER M I N A L RESIDENTIAL SM A LLER LOTS / M U LTI - FA M I LY H ISTORIC I NTER EST TOW N SA LI N A / R ED SA LI N A “ ECO TOU RISM ” - P OTENTI A L I M PROV EM ENT F O R WATER Q UA LIT Y

L A N DFI LL SITE REM EDIATION

SOUTH I M PROV EM ENT F O WATER Q UA LIT Y

POND TOWN P OND NATIONAL MUSEUM

L A N DFI LL SI REM EDI ATIO EDIATIO

THE SALT HOUSE

FRONT STREE T

FT

-TOU R IS M / H OS PITA LIT Y - FER RY DOCK

H ERITAG E GATE WAY

COCKBU RN TOW N

MASTERSONS POINT

R A

- DOW NTOW N - R E V ITA LIZ ATI O N F O R LOC A L US E - M I X ED US E ENGLISH POINT

CONCH WORLD

AIRPORT

A I R P O RT GATE WAY N ATU R E RESERV E GOVERNOR ’ S MANSION

SOUTH CREEK N ATIO N A L PA RK

SOUTH WELLS

WATERLOO GOLF COURSE

SOUTH W ELLS N ATU R E RESERV E

GOVERNOR’S BEACH

D

- PRO P OS ED H OTEL S ITE

EXISTING PORT & FERRY TERMINAL

GUN HILL

P OTENTI A L MARINA CRUISE CENTER

SNORKELI NG REEFS BOABY ROCK POINT

ENLARGEMENT TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 261

GT

5.5.2- GRAND TURK | LAND USE

LEG EN D Park Open Space Park Local Park Reserve

FT

Park National

Agriculture Farming & Food Production Commercial Tourism / Hospitality Commercial Local Mixed Use

Infrastructure / Civic

D

R A

Industrial Airport

Infrastructure Utilities Future Community Development (Residential / Open Space) Residential High Density Residential Medium Density Residential Low Density A Residential Low Density B Residential Low Density C

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

262 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

R A

GRAND TURK PROPOSED LANDUSE PLAN

FT

PLAN

NORTH SOUTH

D

FRONT STREET AAP

SOUTHWEST GTCC AAP

* Refer to enlargements on the following pages TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 263

GT

5.5.2- GRAND TURK | LAND USE

D

R A

FT

NORTH

ENLARGEMENT 264 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

D

R A

FT

SOUTH

ENLARGEMENT TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 265

GT

5.5.3- GRAND TURK | AREA ACTION PLAN

FRONT STREET STRENGTHEN | HISTORIC REHABILITATION | GREEN STREET | PEDESTRIAN PROMENADE

OPPORTUNITIES • Housing: apartments, short term housing on the northern end • Development: promenade along entire corridor  South: hospitality infill; pedestrian green street  Central: historic site redevelopment and rehabilitation; public space redevelopment  North: hospitality infill, historic site redevelopment and rehabilitation, public space redevelopment • Preservation: preserve beach from erosion; preserve historic character • Infrastructure: maintain utilities as needed; add ferry stop within central Front Street

FT

Front Street is the hub of tourism – historic, cultural, marine – of Grand Turk. The street is long in length and can become more of a pedestrian-focused corridor with a mix uses featuring hospitality, local commercial, historic and cultural tourism, and open space. The feel is a seaside village with narrow streets and whitewashed boundary walls that bring historical character that otherwise does not exist anywhere else in TCI.

development should line salinas; eastern salinas should be connected to create natural amenity of attraction for greenway/multi-use trail to follow.

D

R A

Downtown Grand Turk should be allocated resources to maintain and develop the area into a mixed-use hub surrounded by residential neighborhood(s). Development should fall in line with historic, island character; empty lots should be developed under strict architectural and economic guidelines that places controls on the developer or owner in so far as it allows development. Commercial

266 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

Park Open Space

Commercial Local

Park Reserve

Mixed Use

Park Local

Infrastructure / Civic

Agriculture Farming & Food Production

Industrial

Commercial Tourism / Hospitality

Airport

CO N CPark E P T: S T R E N G T H E N | H I S TO R I C R E H A B I LCommercial I TAT I O NLocal | G R E E N S T R E E T | P E D EInfrastructure S T R I A N Utilities PROMENADE Open Space • B u i l d u p o n h i s t o r i c , c u l t u r a l , m a r i n e , a n d t o u r i s m c o re o f t h e i s l a n d • O p pPark o r t uReserve n i t y t o b e c o m e m o re o f a p e d e s t r i a n - fo cMixed u s e dUse c o r r i d o r w i t h a m i x u s e s fe a t uResidential r i n g h o sMedium p i t a l i tDensity y, l o c a l c o mPark m e rc i a l , h i s t o r i c a n d c u l t u r a l t o u r i s m , a n d o p e n s p a c e Infrastructure / Civic Residential Low Density A Local • S o u t h: h o s p i t a l i t y i n f i l l; p e d e s t r i a n g re e n s t re e t Industrial Food • C e nAgriculture t r a l: h i s tFarming o r i c s &i te re Production d e v e l o p m e n t a n d re h a b i l i t a t i o n; p u b l i c s p a c e re d e v e l o p m e n tResidential Low Density B • N o r tCommercial h: h o s p i Tourism t a l i t y i/ nHospitality f i l l , h i s t o r i c s i te re d e v e l o p m Airport e n t a n d re h a b i l i t a t i o n , p u b l i c s p a c e Residential re d e v e lLow opm ent C Density Infrastructure Utilities

Commercial Local

R E S I DMixed E N TUse IAL

Residential Medium Density Residential Low Density A

Industrial

Residential Low Density B

Airport

Residential Low Density C

Infrastructure Utilities

M I X E D U S E CO M M E R C I A L Density + H OSResidential P I TA L I TMedium Y Residential Low Density A

B E AC H ACC E S S A LO N G Residential Low Density B GREEN WAY CO R R I D O R S Residential Low Density C

H I S TO R I C P R E S E R VAT I O N A LO N G F R O N T S T R E E T B E AC H ACC E S S A LO N G G R E E N WAY CO R R I D O R S

PUBLIC

AACP PA LEGEND RK

AACP LEGEND

R A

C I V I C C E N T E R , H I S TO R I C P R E S E R VAT I O N

FT

Infrastructure / Civic

AC T I VAT E P U B L I C G R E E N WAY

AACP LEGEND

PUBLIC REALM INTERVENTIONS A LO N G G R E E N WAY, T Y P.

F LU S H E X I S T I N G S A L I N A S TO E N H A N C E WAT E R Q UA L I T Y. C R E AT E WAT E R F R O N T D E V E LO P M E N T

D

CO M M E R C I A L F R O N TAG E A LO N G P O N D S T R E E T, M I X E D U S E CO M M E R C I A L / TO U R I S M / H OT E L A LO N G F R O N T S T R E E T

CO M M E R C I A L F R O N TAG E A LO N G H I G H WAY T H R O U G H O U T I S L A N D

GT GRAND TURK | FRONT STREET & DOWNTOWN

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 267

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

GT

5.5.3- GRAND TURK | AREA ACTION PLAN

SOUTHWEST / GTCC could be used for attractive viewsheds. This area has high potential for offering cruise passengers opportunities for recreation.

The Grand Turk Cruise Center (GTCC) is a hub of activity for tourists. While the center is a node, there is could be a better landmark or welcoming entry for those leaving the GTCC to explore the island. Comparatively to other international cruise terminals, the GTCC does not have as much interaction and incorporation with the local vendors.

The cruise terminal amentities should integrate more with opportunities for local vendors that will bring more to the local residents.

Governor’s Beach is a great local beach; the beach should continue as with its secluded, natural state, while promoting pop-up activities, such as food trucks, summer Fish Frys, and other cultural event opportunities. The adjacent Governor’s House could be capitalized upon for historic and cultural tourism.

FT

REVITALIZE | RESIDENTIAL INFILL | PUBLIC AMENITIES

R A

Due to the proximity to the airport, industrial uses should cluster along the adjacent parcels. It will be important to buffer these parcels, as the GTCC passengers will be passing by to explore the northern part of the island.

OPPORTUNITIES • Development: consider densifying and providing commercial and mixed-use opportunties to the parcels north of the GTCC; infill along the beach with local vendors, shops, and restaurants for tourists.

• Preservation: preserve green, open space; create a network of multi-use trails to connect to broader Grand Turk; preservation of salinas for natural viepoints • Infrastructure: update utilities necessary

D

The picturesque Hawkes Nest area and salina should tie opportunities for passive and active recreation to the South Wells Nature Reserve. The Hawkes Nest area and its hills

268 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

Park Open Space

Commercial Local

Park Reserve

Mixed Use

Park Local

Infrastructure / Civic

Agriculture Farming & Food Production

Industrial

Commercial Tourism / Hospitality

Airport

Park Open Space

Commercial Local

Infrastructure Utilities

Park Reserve

Mixed Use

Residential Medium Density

Park Local

Infrastructure / Civic

Residential Low Density A

Agriculture Farming & Food Production

Industrial

Residential Low Density B

Commercial Tourism / Hospitality

Airport

Residential Low Density C

Commercial Local

Infrastructure Utilities

Industrial

CO N T I N U O U S WAT EAirport RFRONT G R E EInfrastructure N WAY Utilities Residential Medium Density Residential Low Density A Residential Low Density B Residential Low Density C

Residential Low Density A Residential Low Density B Residential Low Density C

SOUTH WELLS N AT U R E RESERVE

AACP LEGEND

AACP LEGEND

R A

GREEN BUFFER TO I N D U S T R I A L USE AREAS

Residential Medium Density

FT

G OV E R N O R ’ S Mixed Use B E AC H + (O L D) R E S I DInfrastructure E N C E / Civic

P OT E N T I A L F O R MAACP A R I N ALEGEND D E V E LO P M E N T

H AW K E S NEST SALINA

D

LANDMARK OPPORTUNNIT Y OPPORTUNIT Y TO C R E AT E CO N N E C T I O N TO THE SEA CRUISE PORT

RESORT OFFERINGS CENTERED ON DIVE SPORTS LOW - P R O F I L E H OS P I TA L I T Y OFFERING (SNORKLING)

GT GRAND TURK | SOUTHERN CORE

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 269

D R A FT

FT

5.6

D

R A

SALT CAY

ST

5 . 6 . 0 - S A LT C A Y | I S L A N D O V E R V I E W

SALT CAY OVERVIEW

Infrastructural upgrades should include sidewalks, street trees, and street lighting. The local population and tourists will both benefit from an established system of multi-use trails for pedestrians and bicyclists. Connected recreational areas, both formal and informal, will perpetuate an active and healthy community.

FT

Salt Cay is the smallest inhabited island of the Turks and Caicos Islands, yet the island has a long history of inhabitation. Salt Cay and Grand Turk comprise the Turks Islands for inhabited islands; there is less than seven (7) miles between the two islands. The island is known for its historic ties to the salt industry. Salt Cay has a population of less than 100 people. The island is made up of two districts (North and South), while the South is referred to as Balfour Town. The island is popular for diving, snorkeling, and whale watching, as well as its beautiful, pristine beaches.

There are no national parks on Salt Cay, however, there are historic areas of interest, such as the historic western shoreline and the island salinas. Salt Cay is mostly visited from day trips from Grand Turk via a short flight or ferry.

through with the exception of infrastructural upgrades. The island could handle a few extremely high end hotels that contain an environmental-branding to keep the negative environmental output to a minimum.

D

R A

Strengthen Connections | Residential Infill | Public Amenities Salt Cay needs an economic driver to support the local community, as the island has suffered from a lack of economic prosperity since the ‘departure’ of the salt industry. There have been numerous developments proposed in the past on Salt Cay, but all have fallen

Salt Cay has high potential for both environmental prosperity and built development due to abundance of Crown Land still undeveloped; the island consists of just under 50% Crown Land. The island needs to carefully balance preservation and development in an effort to strike an equilibrium among the built and natural environments. The current status of infrastructure on Salt Cay would need to be vastly upgraded if additional development or population growth is expected. Salt Cay should be maintained as an island with low-density, lower height development. It should cater to high-end tourism (cultural and historic tourism) in order to maintain local

272 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

options for local recreational and touristic development, such as recreational boardwalks and a network of oversalina buildings as a salina museum.

The island should invest in a marina redevelopment.

There is a previously used marina and/or port near the North District, but it needs reinvestment and rehabilitation.

The marina would be an attraction for higher-end tourism development and another driver of economic development on Salt Cay.

FT

reinvestment into the economy of the island. Comparatively to other islands, Salt Cay should not be granted a high concentration of built development due to the factors mentioned above and previously in this document. With that said, select catalytic developments would provide a great level of economic security to the people of Salt Cay.

A ferry system exists between Grand Turk and Salt Cay; however, it is unreliable. An investment across the archipelago, and more specifically between Grand Turk and Salt Cay, in the ferry system would indirectly attract more opportunities for tourism to Salt Cay. The successful ferry should focus on comfortability, reliability, and safety.

R A

There are three sites determined suitable for potential future development: northwest corner, northeast corner, and along the east coastline. These three sites were selected due to their excellent beach rating and are prime for ultra-high-end, luxurious development. The selection of a developer and development must focus on positive community benefits and environmental protection.

The island will be severely damaged by improper and irresponsible development – whether for hospitality or residential use.

Air transportation is another method of transportation used to travel between Grand Turk and Salt Cay. The Salt Cay airport is newly refurbished and rehabilitated. The airport on Salt Cay can also contribute to private transportation to and from the island.

D

Environmentally, the Salt Cay salinas are both areas of historic interest and important for the bird population.

These salinas should be protected from overdevelopment and potential eradication with strict requirements for potential usage and/or development. There are successful

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 273

ST

5 . 6 . 1 - S A LT C A Y | I S L A N D F R A M E W O R K

N AT U R A L S Y S T E M S

ELE VATION

FT

A ER I A L

AREAS OF O U T S TA N D I N G BEAUT Y

R A

PROTEC TED A R E A & N AT U R A L S Y S T E M S

C R I T I C A L H A B I TAT

D

V E G E TAT I O N

C O A S TA L R I S K

N AT U R A L C O M P O S I T E

*REFER TO THE APPENDIX A3.1 FOR ADDITIONAL ANALYSIS DOCUMENTATION 274 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

A R E A S O F CU LTU R A L & H ISTORIC A L SIG N I FIC A NCE

R A

T R A N S P O R TAT I O N NETWORK

FT

B U I LT S Y S T E M S

SETTLEMENT & D E V E LO PM E N T N O D ES

D

OWNERSHIP

B U I LT

COMPOSITE

*REFER TO THE APPENDIX A3.1 FOR ADDITIONAL ANALYSIS DOCUMENTATION TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 275

ST

5 . 6 . 1 - S A LT C A Y | I S L A N D F R A M E W O R K

LEG EN D Beach Entry

Key Nodes

Snorkeling

Existing Development

Historic Sites

Proposed Ferry Dock/Port

View Points

Proposed Marina

Airport

Proposed Resort/Hotels

Ferry Dock/Port

Points of Interest

Marina

FT

Settlements

Residential Development Area of Concern

National Park/Nature Reserve

R A

Proposed Agricultural Land Land to be Preserved Critical Areas Reefs

Historical Interest Beach/Waterfront Access Primary Circulation (Existing)

D

Primary Circulation (Proposed) Secondary Circulation Potential Water Connections Potential Land Connections Greenway Trail/Promenade Salina Boundary

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

276 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

M A R I N A DE V ELOPM ENT P OTENTI A L Exceptional Opportunity Good Opportunity Moderate Potential

P OTENTI A L F O R E XCLUSI V E / LUXU RY RESORT

NORTHEAST POINT

NORTHWEST POINT NORTH BAY

FT

P OTENTI A L F O R E XCLUSI V E / LUXU RY RESORT P OTENTI A L MARINA

NORTH DISTRICT

EXISTING PORT & FERRY TERMINAL

AIRPORT

LONG POINT

BALFOUR TOWN

AREA OF H ISTORIC I NTER EST

G R AY SA LI N A AREA OF H ISTORIC I NTER EST

R A

TOWN SALINA

TOW N SA LI N A EN V I RO N M ENTA L TOU RISM

LONG BAY

P OTENTI A L F O R E XCLUSI V E / LUXU RY RESORT

SOUTH DISTRICT

D

SOUTH CREEK

SALT CAY FRAMEWORK PLAN

SOUTH BAY

SOUTH POINT

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS | DRAFT NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 277

ST

5 . 6 . 2 - S A LT C A Y | L A N D U S E

LEG EN D Park Open Space Park Local Park Reserve

FT

Park National

Agriculture Farming & Food Production Commercial Tourism / Hospitality Commercial Local Mixed Use

Infrastructure / Civic

D

R A

Industrial Airport

Infrastructure Utilities Future Community Development (Residential / Open Space) Residential High Density Residential Medium Density Residential Low Density A Residential Low Density B Residential Low Density C

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BALFOUR SOUTH DISTRICT AAP

SALT CAY PROPOSED LAND USE PLAN

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BALFOUR (SOUTH DISTRICT) STRENGTHEN CONNECTIONS | RESIDENTIAL INFILL | PUBLIC AMENITIES

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Balfour Town, paired with the Historic and North District, is the heart of Salt Cay life. The island should be preserved to its fullest capacity, while introducing a thoughtful economic driver to bring more prosperity to the island. Balfour Town should stay as the hub of activity on the island: low density, low-rise, boutique resorts and villas combined with civic infrastructure and housing options for local residents. A network of open space should be established.

OPPORTUNITIES • Housing: additional housing units for locals • Development: one potential resort (Amanyara, Sailrock, Six Senses) with environmental tourism focus; housing; recreation infrastructure; revitalize marina / ferry development • Preservation: capitalize on historic waterfront (public gathering/community space + tourism opportunities); preserve open space outside of settlements (growth boundary) • Infrastructure: complete system of infrastructure – water, roads; airport in great shape

Circular Photo: Agile LeVin - Visit Turks and Caicos Islands (www.visittci.com)

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Park Open Space

Commercial Local

Park Reserve

Mixed Use

Park Local

Infrastructure / Civic

Agriculture Farming & Food Production

Industrial

Commercial Tourism / Hospitality

Airport

CO N C E P T: S T R E N G T H E N CO N N E C T I O N S | R E SCommercial I D E N T I ALocal L INFILL | PUBLIC AMENITIES Infrastructure Utilities Park Open Space • B u i l d u p o n t h e h e a r t o f t h e i s l a n d t h ro u g h t h e i n f i l l of re s i d e n ce s , co m m e rce, + v i l l a s Mixed • O pPark p o rReserve t u n i t y to a d d e co n o m i c d r i ve r v i a a l ow d Use e n s i t y, e n v i ro n m e n t a l d eve l oResidential p m e n t Medium ( h o s pDensity italit y +/oPark r v Local i l l a s) Infrastructure / Civic Residential Low Density A • P re s e r ve + e n h a n ce h i s to r i c w a te r f ro n t + p uIndustrial b l i c s p a ce s Residential Low Density B Agriculture Farming & Food Production • A d d p u b l i c re a l m p a r k s / p l aza s /e tc . to f u r t h e r p ro m o te co m m u n i t y g a t h e r i n g s Airport Residential Low Density C • P roCommercial m o te coTourism n n e c/ tHospitality i v i t y t h ro u g h b i ke p a t h s + p e d e s t r i a n co n n e c t i o n s Mixed Use Infrastructure / Civic Industrial Airport Infrastructure Utilities Residential Medium Density Residential Low Density A Residential Low Density B Residential Low Density C

Infrastructure Utilities

H I S TO R I C CO R E - M A I N TA I N E X I S T I N G , A DA P T I V E R EU S E , I N F I L L Residential Medium Density O P E N V I E W CO R R I D O R TO O C E A N Residential Low Density A T H E F O L LY S A L I N A- TO U R I S M ( N AT U R E R E S E R V E ), AG R I O R B I T Y, CO N N E C T TO M I X E D U S E TOW N A R B O R C U LTResidential U R E O PLow P ODensity RT U N CO R E Residential Low Density C SALINA O P E N S PAC E PA R K / I CO N

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EXISTING/ INFILL RESIDENTIAL E X I S T I N G S P O RT S A R E A , E X PA N S I O N OPPORTUNIT Y M U N I C I PA L CO R E CO M M E R C I A L / M I X E D U S E CO R E W I T H P U B L I C R E A L M CO N N E C T I O N S TO S A L I N A MEDIUM DENSIT Y RESIDENTIAL, INCREASE EXISTING DENSIT Y AS N E E D E D TO S U P P O RT CO R E

ST SALT CAY | BALFOUR TOWN/ SOUTH DISTRICT

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6 . 0 - I M P L E M E N TAT I O N , M O N I TO R I N G , + E VA LUAT I O N

IMPLEMENTATION

Overview

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This section describes the set of strategies and approaches to implement the policies and objectives set forth by the TCI NPDP involving monitoring, plan amendments and community engagement.

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MONITORING & EVALUATION [NOTE | ADDITIONAL INFORMATION TO FOLLOW IN SUBSEQUENT SUBMITTAL FOR SECTION 6.0]

The indicators should be grounded on credible data sources, with reference to baseline conditions and future targets. With GIS, one can use this a tool to gather information, improve our understanding, and measure development patterns as well as the landscape systems.

Amendments to the Plan The result of a monitoring report should provide recommendations for the TCI NPSDP. A comprehensive review of the TCI NPSDP should be undertaken at least every 10 years to make adjustments, if necessary, to ensure the objectives and targets of the plan are being met and ensure that the policies established remain achievable and appropriate withing the current and changing social, economic, environmental, technological and political situations.

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Identify emerging trends and related issues, related to physical, economic, social, and environmental changes Analyze the effectiveness of the Plan and its policies Identify unintended consequences of policies Allow for adjustments and updating as may be required

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Monitoring is a vital step in measuring the efficency of the initial goals and objectives set by the TCI National Development Plan. The targets set out by the plan will fluctuate based on assumptions that are subject to change over time. Therefore, a system that measures and monitors these ongoing changes will be key in providing the information required to ensure that assumptions and policy initiatives remain relevant. The monitoring will aim to identify some of the following:

Monitoring Report & Key Indicators The TCI DPDP Monitoring report should be prepared at least once every 5 years. If resources allow, the report should be prepared on an annual basis. The report would be based on a set of indicators, which gauge the extent to which an objective has been met. Indicators fall into the categories of: social, economic, environmental, and governance. The indicators can include some of the following, but are not limited to:

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7. 0 - C O N C L U S I O N

CONCLUSION A PLAN FOR THE FUTURE

This plan is meant to be adaptable to future changes. The island frameworks set forth the foundation for growth in a thriving environment and economy. They address current issues and future proposals to strengthen the archipelago as a whole.

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The National Physical Sustainable Development Plan (NPSDP) will serve as a guide for current and future preservation and development of the Turks and Caicos Islands. This document pairs visions, principles, objectives, and plans with physical space within TCI. The NPSDP focuses on carrying the ďŹ ve princples: 1. Celebrate the Turks and Caicos Islands Culture 2. One TCIG - One TCI Government 3. Resilence and Multifunctionality 4. Island Linkages 5. Nature as Beauty

While this plan established a framework for the islands to follow, there is still more work to be done. More detail and exploration should be examined in terms of social and cultural programming to truly activate the spaces identiďŹ ed as catalyst projects, nodal locations, and civic and public spaces. The objectives and strategies mentioned in Chapter 3.0 should be further developed into actionable policies and outcomes for the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The NPSDP is the foundation of which the Planning Department and all of TCIG should strive to build upon to create an equitable future for all in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

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By following this NPSDP as a guide, the future of the Turks and Caicos is bright for both the natural environment and for TCIslanders. The natural environment will sustain the archipelago through providing spaces of refuge and interest for locals and tourists alike. The built environment will continue to prosper for all by providing spaces for social, cultural, environmental, and economic pursuits in an equitable manner for all.

The NPSDP should be reevaluated in ten (10) years by the implementation and evaluation methods (forthcoming).

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NEXT STEPS

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The consultant team will present the Draft National Physical Sustainable Development Plan to the public during the week of 3-7 August on the islands of Providenciales, North Caicos, Middle Caicos, South Caicos, Grand Turk, and Salt Cay. Feedback received will be considered for the final NPSDP.

The Draft NPSDP will be available for public comment for eight (8) weeks at key locations and online. During this time, the consultant team will be presenting the Draft NPSDP to all relevant Turks and Caicos Governmental entities, the National Steering Committee (NSC) and key stakeholders. The presentation will spur guidance and feedback from these entities that the consultant team will include in the final NPSDP.

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The final NPSDP will be presented to the NSC and Planning Department after eight (8) weeks of public comment and revision. Once edits and revisions are made per the NSC and Planning Committee, the consultant team will present the final NPSDP to the TCI Cabinet for approval and adoption in October 2020, pending no project delays.

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GOVERNMENT OF THE TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS

NATIONAL PHYSICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN Draft National Physical Sustainable Development Plan 29 JULY 2020