Govt urged to keep
commitment to people
PHILIPSBURG--Keep the commitment to zone Emilio Wilson Estate for conservation and recreational purposes as set out in the National Zoning Ordinance and purchase the estate, Emilio Wilson Foundation for Management and Conservation urged government this week.
In a press release, the group said the issue is not who is the registered owner of the estate, comprising Golden Rock and Industry Plantations in Cul de SAC, but government’s commitment to the people by resolving to protect the entire estate based on its cultural, historical, ecological and environmental values.
These commitments were made in several Island Resolutions and other decisions including the denial of the planning permit to Emilio Wilson Estate B.V. for a residential development.
“The Emilio Wilson Estate affair has been going on for almost three years. During this time, government’s approach has been one of “waiting things out” and has been passive at best. The ball is now in government’s court. Government would be well advised to take action to keep its commitments to the people,” the group said.
Three years ago, the environmental community and residents were up in arms over a planned residential development on the estate, considered one of the last unspoilt green spaces on the Dutch side.
After intense protest from the community included high school students, the island council took the position to explore the possibility to place the estate on the monument list and seek ways to purchase the property for posterity. To date, the estate has not been placed on the monument list and no significant stride has been made to purchase it.
Estate owner Henri Brookson said last week that government would do well to talk with Emilio Wilson Estate B.V. if it’s interested in purchasing the property.
