Sonesta deal sparks optimism

“Positive” and “exciting” are some of the words being bandied about on the news that the Green Family has purchased the former Sonesta Beach Hotel property.

It was announced on Monday that the Greens — father Peter, and sons Alexander and Andrew — will be renaming their purchase the Southampton Beach Resort.

They already own the Fairmont Hamilton Princess and Waterloo House properties.

John Harvey, CEO of the Bermuda Hotel Association, told the Bermuda Sun “This is a very positive and exciting development that has arisen as a result of the Greens purchasing the property. This is a step in the right direction.”

The Greens want to do $50 million in upgrades to the Hamilton Princess before setting their sights on getting to work on the new Southampton Beach Resort.

Mr Harvey said: “From what they said they want to complete what they want at the Fairmont Hamilton and take it from there. This development is very encouraging.

Premier Craig Cannonier said having a Bermudian family buying the old Sonesta Beach Property is “something to be excited about.

Mr Cannonier spoke at the press conference yesterday and said: “This means so much to the country that we have our own being able to invest in the future of this country.

Direction

“It really represents a bit of a change in the direction that we’re going in.

“We have young entrepreneurs who want to bring a new product in the hotel industry.

“What they will build will be very interesting.”

He continued: “This is exciting. This means there are investors out there who want to work with Bermuda and find it as a jurisdiction they believe has a future.

“I can also say we are getting a lot of responses concerning St George’s.

“This is good news for us. We will continue after this budget period to look at those interested in the properties there and what can be developed as we move forward.”

Asked if he knows any details about the Green’s plan for the property, Mr Cannonier said: “We know that they are looking to build another hotel property.

“Right now, it’s in its infancy stage. They will give details as it goes further.

“It’s exciting news to know that the property will be developed.”

Mr Cannonier also said he was looking forward a timeline from the owners.

The purchase also means there will be jobs for Bermudians, thus stimulating the economy.