St Lucia prepares for showdown with UNESCO over Pitons heritage status

In a bid to safeguard the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage status of the iconic Pitons, Saint Lucia is gearing up for a showdown with the international organization's committee. The announcement was made by Housing Minister and Member of Parliament for Central Castries, Hon Richard Frederick, during the opening ceremony of the National Housing Corporation's Chaussee Road Head Office last Friday.

The Pitons, the twin volcanic peaks that have long served as a symbol of Saint Lucia and a major tourist attraction, were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005. This designation has afforded them critical protections to preserve their unique natural beauty and ecological significance. However, a recent development controversy has raised concerns that this status may be in jeopardy.

Frederick candidly stated, "Saint Lucia will be doing battle with the committee of UNESCO sometime later this year." He further emphasized the gravity of the situation, saying, "We need to pray for the best."

The source of the controversy revolves around a Canadian family's decision to construct a residence in close proximity to the base of Gros Piton, one of the two iconic peaks.

This construction project, notably, encroaches upon the designated "No build zone" established to protect the fragile ecosystem and pristine beauty of the area.

As a result, the Development Control Authority (DCA) has launched an investigation into the matter. The DCA plays a crucial role in overseeing and regulating construction projects on the island to ensure they comply with established guidelines.

The Pitons are not only a source of pride for Saint Lucians but also a significant driver of tourism, which is a cornerstone of the Saint Lucian economy.

To maintain its UNESCO World Heritage status, Saint Lucia must demonstrate its unwavering commitment to preserving the natural beauty and ecological significance of the Pitons.

In a judgement released by the High Court with Mondesir Estates filing a claim against the DCA, the ruling, after a vigorous investigation, ordered the DCA to review the application sent by Mondesir Estate, which was previously denied.

The application, which allowed for the construction of a single-family structure at the base of Gros Piton, was denied by the DCA in keeping with preserving the area.

However, the High Court ruled that the denial was unfair and unreasonable on the basis that it was in breach of the claimant’s constitutional rights.

The judgement reads, “That upon the review of the claimant’s application, the DCA should consider the question of the payment of compensation to the claimant as one of the options available should the DCA find that upon review of the claimant’s application, I conformity with the Act development approval ought not to be granted.”

Payment to the claimant, if not agreed between both parties, will be assessed 21 days from the date of the judgement, which was July 24, 2023.