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Victor Johnson will have nothing to do with Gun Creek development-Premier

-VG residents concerned about potential investors; offers many ideas to proposed development but doesn’t want project rushed
A number of residents of Virgin Gorda flocked to the Robinson O’Neal Primary School in North Sound, Virgin Gorda on April 10, 2013 to hear of Government’s conceptual plan for the development of Gun Creek and to express their many concerns and suggestions and to also have their burning question of who will fund the development answered, amid 'rumours' that prominent developer Mr David Victor Johnson would have a hand in it. Photo: VINO
Sister Islands Coordinator Mr Vincent Wheatley said he felt Government still needed to explain the logistics of how the Gun Creek project was going to be a feasible one if they were to convince persons to buy in to the initiative. Photo: VINO
Sister Islands Coordinator Mr Vincent Wheatley said he felt Government still needed to explain the logistics of how the Gun Creek project was going to be a feasible one if they were to convince persons to buy in to the initiative. Photo: VINO
This gentleman had concerns about the depth at the docking area at Gun Creek and felt it would not be able to accommodate large vessels. Photo: VINO
This gentleman had concerns about the depth at the docking area at Gun Creek and felt it would not be able to accommodate large vessels. Photo: VINO
This woman said that whatever happens regarding the development of Gun Creek the children and the generations coming up should not be forgotten as they need something to look forward to. 'Most of our beachfront areas already gone,' and noted that her family even owned an area of Leverick Bay at one point. 'Let us not rush into anything.' Photo: VINO
This woman said that whatever happens regarding the development of Gun Creek the children and the generations coming up should not be forgotten as they need something to look forward to. 'Most of our beachfront areas already gone,' and noted that her family even owned an area of Leverick Bay at one point. 'Let us not rush into anything.' Photo: VINO
Deputy Secretary in the Premier’s Office, Mr Brodrick Penn. Photo: VINO
Deputy Secretary in the Premier’s Office, Mr Brodrick Penn. Photo: VINO
Deputy Premier and Minister for Natural Resources and Labour, Dr Kedrick D. Pickering giving his response to some of the concerns regarding land ownership at Gun Creek. Dr Pickering noted that the land being proposed for development belongs to the Crown. Photo: VINO
Deputy Premier and Minister for Natural Resources and Labour, Dr Kedrick D. Pickering giving his response to some of the concerns regarding land ownership at Gun Creek. Dr Pickering noted that the land being proposed for development belongs to the Crown. Photo: VINO
This woman said she did not believe the concept for the development of Gun Creek may be the right one and if any thought is to be put in to developing Gun Creek that development would be balanced to both sides of the creek. She felt that the current plan would limit the development to one particular area of Gun Creek and feared that this would result in congestion and unattractiveness. Photo: VINO
This woman said she did not believe the concept for the development of Gun Creek may be the right one and if any thought is to be put in to developing Gun Creek that development would be balanced to both sides of the creek. She felt that the current plan would limit the development to one particular area of Gun Creek and feared that this would result in congestion and unattractiveness. Photo: VINO
A section of the audience at the Robinson O’Neal Primary School in North Sound, Virgin Gorda on April 10, 2013. Photo: VINO
A section of the audience at the Robinson O’Neal Primary School in North Sound, Virgin Gorda on April 10, 2013. Photo: VINO
Premier Dr the Honourable D. Orlando Smith stated that Mr David Victor Johnson will have nothing to do with the proposed land development at Gun Creek. Photo: VINO
Premier Dr the Honourable D. Orlando Smith stated that Mr David Victor Johnson will have nothing to do with the proposed land development at Gun Creek. Photo: VINO
According to Government, the proposed development of Gun Creek is entirely for Virgin Gordians and Virgin Islanders. Photo: VINO
According to Government, the proposed development of Gun Creek is entirely for Virgin Gordians and Virgin Islanders. Photo: VINO
NORTH SOUND, Virgin Gorda, VI- A number of residents of Virgin Gorda flocked to the Robinson O’Neal Primary School in North Sound, Virgin Gorda on April 10, 2013 to hear of Government’s conceptual plan for the development of Gun Creek and to express their many concerns and suggestions and to also have their burning question of who will fund the development answered, amid “rumours” that prominent developer Mr David Victor Johnson would have a hand in it.

According to Government it sees Gun Creek, which was designated an official port of entry on March 1, 2013, as having massive potential for business in the field of tourism and is proposing to develop the area by constructing a wharf and other buildings that Virgin Gordians in particular could eventually own and set up businesses, whether restaurants, hotels or retail shops.

And while most felt that development was needed, the concerns were that the conceptual plan needed to be adjusted in several areas. Others felt that Government needed to take their time and not rush to develop the area and then it fails to realise its potential. And of course the lingering question was who is going to fund the development.

Noting that he would like to cut straight to the matter of importance, a resident stated “Most of the people are here this evening because the rumour is that Mr [David Victor] Johnson is going to be in control of what happens down at the Gun Creek.” He also opined that Mr Johnson has a “voracious appetite for land” and noted that the gentleman reportedly has some 300 acres up at Oil Nut Bay...six other acres elsewhere and has applied to get 12 additional ones at another area in Virgin Gorda.

“My question then is this; Is it true that Mr Johnson of Oil Nut Bay is going to be in control of our lands, further additional lands in the North Sound area and at Gun Creek?”

Premier Dr the Honourable D. Orlando Smith rose immediately to address the concern by stating that the proposed development had nothing to do with anyone else but people from North Sound and Virgin Gorda, who he said would be the investors and owners. “To be specific, Mr Johnson will have nothing to do with this development, not in control of this development...It is something that we see has potential for business opportunities for particularly the people of North Sound.”

Another resident said “I am not calling name as to who will fund it and who is doing this and who is doing that but there is a saying that goes ‘when you ride on the back of a tiger you end up in his belly’ and I hope this is not the case.”

One gentleman wanted to know about a timeline for the project to get underway. His concern was that if the Territory is facing financial constraints “where the money coming from” to fund the project. “Whoever funds it owns it...So as BVIslanders we are very cognisant that we have Mr Johnson at the back end...and then we have the Ata Khan on the other side with the dock...If we are going to build I want to know for sure without a shadow of a doubt that place is owned by the people of Virgin Gorda.”

Melvin Clifton said North Sound is very important to him and a lot others and noted that it is the last “holdout” for Virgin Islanders. “We want development, we want to make sure there is development and jobs creation but we also want to make sure that this development is for the people of Virgin Gorda, for BVIslanders.”

Another person said Virgin Gorda is called “musical city” and wanted to know if there is any plan for the entertainment and cultural exposition of that talent. “We need to promote tourism within our culture. People come to the beach, they come from other places but people are begging us to showcase the culture of the British Virgin Islands.”

One woman said that whatever happens the children and the generations coming up should not be forgotten as they need something to look forward to. “Most of our beachfront areas already gone,” and noted that her family even owned an area of Leverick Bay at one point. “Let us not rush into anything.”

Another woman said she was disappointed that development is only concentrated in the Gun Creek area and not the wider North Sound area to which Deputy Secretary in the Premier’s Office, Mr Brodrick Penn said concentration is being placed at Gun Creek now because of the potential for development seen there but that there would be a wider development plan. “Certainly we don’t want the potentials to be limited to the creek area at all,” Mr Penn replied.

The same woman also said she did not believe the concept for the development of Gun Creek may be the right one and if any thought is to be put in to development there it should be balanced to both sides of the creek. She felt that the current plan would limit the development to one particular area of Gun Creek and feared that this would result in congestion and unattractiveness.

According to Mr Penn, Government wants to ensure that the people in Virgin Gorda become business owners and that all activities happening in the “Sound” that the people of North Sound and Virgin Gorda can benefit from it and that Government is prepared to move ahead with plans to try to create opportunities.

Premier Smith in closing said “I want to assure you that what we are discussing here is about BVIslanders...I wouldn’t have a stake in it either, so it will be owned by Virgin Gorda.

The Premier also said discussion on the proposed land side development at Gun Creek will continue until “we get something that everybody wants to see...I don’t want to put a timeline until I know that everybody is happy about the plans.” He also noted that persons could send their ideas and suggestions in writing or form committees to have their voices heard.

“This is not something that is going to happen tomorrow, Premier Smith stated.

Meanwhile, some persons felt that there were other pressing issues that Government should be focussing on rather than Gun Creek development. Some of those issues included having a hospital and doctors in Virgin Gorda, having an ambulance boat, dealing with the garbage situation, making lands available to young people and to ensure the Gun Creek port of entry is properly monitored.

55 Responses to “Victor Johnson will have nothing to do with Gun Creek development-Premier”

  • BREAKING NEWS (11/04/2013, 08:55) Like (17) Dislike (3) Reply
    Another Belonger forced out. Jarecki out ! Johnson, IN !!
    • farmer brown (11/04/2013, 09:44) Like (20) Dislike (0) Reply
      These people dont care about nothing they are even destroying our historical sites in the area
    • @ breaking news (11/04/2013, 09:50) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
      They should put statues of both of them in Lyold square
    • BREAKING NEWS (11/04/2013, 10:04) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
      Ey VINO, I know you liked that one........lol She come in clean right? ha ha
  • Bvi man (11/04/2013, 09:11) Like (10) Dislike (12) Reply
    These greedy families selling off their lands for little or nothing and then upset when the investors make millions off it. Why are they selling it? Why are they blaming Government? Government cannot give away anybody's land. People's minds here are really warped. Her family used to own land in Leverick. Who stole it? Wow, unbelievable. NDP good, I was not wasting any more time with VI people, it's a dead case especially VG. They have ralph there for over 30yrs and keep putting him back in, but acting like NDP can fix the entire place overnight. If the Government not bringing in increased revenue they can't work on other projects it's simple math.
    • sturpesss (11/04/2013, 09:39) Like (4) Dislike (0) Reply
      you stupid fool can you plz read and try to understand what the ppl are saying. instead on coming on here with you foolish comment
    • under the bus (11/04/2013, 09:54) Like (8) Dislike (0) Reply
      David Johnson is apart of the project and we are no longer fools...doc stop tell lies boss.
      • rico (11/04/2013, 12:28) Like (5) Dislike (0) Reply
        even if johnson is not on the documents, of course he is an advisor/ consultant/ contributor who will make sure his developments have the advantage.

        architecture is everything in a development. who is going to design? big buildings? slick buildings or ones that favour west indian details? in a commercial area, why are they trying to include golf and tennis? thank you VINO for photoing the list and participants...
  • wet well (11/04/2013, 09:25) Like (4) Dislike (0) Reply
    there the NDP goes again this is why the BVI is doomed.....

    • links (11/04/2013, 10:02) Like (3) Dislike (9) Reply
      The BVI is doomed because of ignorant people. When we start thinking BVI before NDP and VIP we will be better off. most of the push back against projects is political and personal, nothing more or less.
  • bvi (11/04/2013, 09:36) Like (4) Dislike (1) Reply
    The first mistake was to send Dr. Smith to sell this project. He is not a leader. Currently how he operating in running the country is unbelievable.
  • talk girl talk (11/04/2013, 09:39) Like (6) Dislike (0) Reply
    Regardless of the numerous negative implications for the country as a whole or virgin gorda the NDP will never listen until they get this project on the road they listen to NO One but the rich white investors.
  • yellow (11/04/2013, 09:52) Like (4) Dislike (0) Reply
    good job people of North Sound Let us love our BVI the only place we call home. Ask God For guidance.

  • critic (11/04/2013, 10:04) Like (4) Dislike (1) Reply
    The NDP cant get a thing sell these days
    • open wide (11/04/2013, 10:50) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
      the issue is............ "Not in my Back yard " but " A Better way Foward" ............

  • What a ting (11/04/2013, 10:07) Like (5) Dislike (1) Reply
    The fact is we need a new government that will be managed properly, will not be corrupt and have the confidence of the people. The NDP has no moral authority that is why none of their projects are going anywhere....End of story.
  • hog city (11/04/2013, 10:08) Like (9) Dislike (0) Reply
    This are the same plan fraser had for sea cow's bay... NDP blocked it , stole it and now trying to use it in VG
  • . (11/04/2013, 10:10) Like (6) Dislike (0) Reply
    This premier starting to untruth plenty now-a-days
    • BRAD BOYNES (11/04/2013, 10:49) Like (0) Dislike (3) Reply
      I challenge the NDP government to educate the people on how THIS PROJECT WILL HELP LOCALS first and then the "nay sayers" will have no reason to stop an excellent project.

      • links (11/04/2013, 10:57) Like (5) Dislike (0) Reply
        Explain what you mean by help locals. How does any other development help locals? The same will apply. You have Little Dix, Oil Nut, Nail Bay, Scrub Island, Norman Island, Peter Island, Necker Island and many more. You saying BVI or its people dont' benefit at all from them?
  • VG (11/04/2013, 10:11) Like (2) Dislike (260) Reply
    Them north sound bo bos need to learn how the economy works to make it better for us the people of virgin gorda.
  • born & raise (11/04/2013, 10:17) Like (8) Dislike (0) Reply
    them really ythink ppl stupid the gov broke,where else ayo going get the money to develop it, its coming from Bronsen or David Johnsen. the gov already gave him oil nut bay locals cannot i repeat cannot visit oil nut bay,Necker island or Mosquito island an these island are owned by these men ,gun creek is fine as it is with the local businesses that's in the area. LEAVE IT ALONE!
  • . (11/04/2013, 10:18) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
    The speaker look like she sent her brother to represent her...Wha he doing up there?
  • to vg (11/04/2013, 10:34) Like (3) Dislike (0) Reply

    your a real jack @$# ,it will better who funds the project pockets look at the areas they develop they bring in their own staff too work ,so dnt mind them that it will create jobs

  • Politics (11/04/2013, 10:59) Like (2) Dislike (10) Reply
    NDp my advice to you is abandon all plans and leave the bvi as is since that is what the people want. when they come seeking assistance with funds or otherwise tell them the government can only pay civil servants and they should go look a job. if they cant find a job, tell them start a business if they cant start a business tell them too bad as you tried to create economic growth and they didn't want it.
  • brother Alvin (11/04/2013, 11:21) Like (3) Dislike (2) Reply
    The invaders are back!!! NDP is selling the country yet again….
  • Massive (11/04/2013, 12:00) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
    I love your photos display vino, you are so good at this thing..it shows the full picture..No bun intended
  • pete (11/04/2013, 12:31) Like (5) Dislike (0) Reply
    The Premier also said discussion on the proposed land side development at Gun Creek will continue until “we get something that everybody wants to see...I don’t want to put a timeline until I know that everybody is happy about the plans.” He also noted that persons could send their ideas and suggestions in writing or form committees to have their voices heard."

    so why isn't the same consideration taken with the Pier Park Cruise Ship dock? Many have protested the design and size, yet the ministers are still determined to push things through. tortola is a step child to rich VG expats.

  • Open Minded (11/04/2013, 13:13) Like (14) Dislike (4) Reply
    The people of VG, particularly those that grew up in North Sound have no problems with the development of Gun Creek. What we have problems with is the project being funded purely by foreign investors instead of including the people in the development.

    As a Virgin Gordian and someone who grew up in North Sound I truly believe that our people should be involved in every aspect of this project including ownership. However, this does not mean that consideration cannot be given to have the project funded jointly by locals with outside investors including Mr. Johnson.

    However, this would have to be considered carefully using a balanced approach to ensure that the people are not taken advantage of. We must remember that Mr. Johnson is a developer and he himself could have backers including investors who pool their financial resources together to invest in his projects. Venture capitalism is big business.

    I am only asking for our Government to be open and honest with the people about this project and for the people to keep an open mind and not make the proposed development about politics. At the end of the day we all want to see our country developed, especially if it serves to benefit the people.

    • Bvi man (11/04/2013, 14:45) Like (3) Dislike (1) Reply
      Now at least you have sense. Locals want to own but do they have $20mil? What do BVIslanders know about unity? Nothing is wrong with partnering with monied people as long as you have your ducks in a row and don't be naive about it. Joint ventures can work. Locals need to realize these things are not just about concrete and pavement. You have to market, manage, maintain. You need lots of money and expertise to make these thigns happen. Look at Oil Nut and Yacht Club Smerelda. Which locals could build that themselves and market it to bring in rich boaters to race and sail? NOT ONE! Let us stop the false patriotism and stop fooling ourselves. Being realistic will save us from ourselves. We need to realize that we can't do everything on our own and there's no shame in that.
      • Release (11/04/2013, 17:51) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
        Poor the NDP you have let the nation down…wheel and come again…enjoy the ride
      • Yah! (11/04/2013, 18:15) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
        Anything is possible if we are given the same perks and opportunities that those who claim the have money get. Lots of agencies and grants for financing with solid plans
    • Beware (12/04/2013, 07:22) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
      "Open Minded". Who are you coming on here trying to fool, bout you from North Sound? You are nothing but a paid NDP blogger.
  • Dock master (11/04/2013, 15:15) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
    Ndp thing don't look good people has lost trust in your government. Clean up your act.
  • zip it (11/04/2013, 15:59) Like (22) Dislike (0) Reply
    here the NDP got ran out of north sound last night hahahaha
  • invadors (11/04/2013, 16:17) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
    This is yet another sell out of our heritage
  • ooooo (11/04/2013, 17:08) Like (3) Dislike (1) Reply
    BOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!! ah glad ayo run um
    • she the cat mother (12/04/2013, 00:07) Like (0) Dislike (1) Reply
      run and booo them yes, they have taken our country to the bottom of the region
  • jah (11/04/2013, 20:15) Like (6) Dislike (0) Reply
    My god you see the picture of the people in attendance? All the white folks staked in a bunch together, and all the blacks in another. Why all the segregation in this little BVI?
    • island girl (12/04/2013, 09:01) Like (4) Dislike (0) Reply
      Jah, at least everyone, black and white folk, showed up to the meeting.

  • ooooo (11/04/2013, 22:19) Like (40) Dislike (1) Reply
    doc them days when we had believe in you long gone ..... we trust you medically but not politically
  • bay harbor michigan (12/04/2013, 09:33) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
    Within 10-15 years when we drive in to north sound it, the sign that say's welcome to north sound will soon say (Welcome to bay harbor michigan) North Sound is a small michigan and David Jhonson is the president.
    Dont know who the NDP trying to fool we all know Who's the money. David jhonson of Oil Nut Bay, its his plane and his mission, did you all notice the stamp from town & country on the plans, and yet them say its not approve? like really? if i was not approve it would not have a stamp like that on it.
    Why Mr.J V Jhonson just can't leave The BVI & drop down some where, The BVI really belongs to the (white focks) they own our land,beaches,islands even job, oops, just realize we are backk in slavely & the NPD help mad that happen.
    Thanks doc.
  • island girl (12/04/2013, 09:38) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    Gov't stated at the meeting that April 29th will be next public hearing. Mark your calendars.
  • ns (12/04/2013, 19:21) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
    How come no is mentioning that there are 2working boatyards in existence in north sound and the new plans did not have a ramp included for pulling boats. It did have aboard walk for the obviously the mega yacht people to walk around while waiting for customs. So the local fisherman with boats are now going to have to go to the south sound or the valley to pull their boats.... I think they need to go back to the drawing board and come up with a plan that focuses on what Gun Creek is used for already and design it to help the local bussinesses. Maybe they should finish the pool at the high school irst before starting another project that will not get finished.
  • life (12/04/2013, 19:37) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
    Everything in this country is bogus and corrupt, starting from the top,
  • hotel (12/04/2013, 20:16) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    THIS IS THE NDP'S BVI.
    SHAME, SHAME, SHAME, SHAME.....LET US HEAR POLITICIAN MAKE A COMMENT NOW AFTER BEEN REJECTED...????

    WHARE ARE THEY??????

  • VOTE (12/04/2013, 20:25) Like (21) Dislike (0) Reply
    I eagerly await the next elections
    to see The People fix the NDP problem.


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