The recently groundbroken WestBeach Barbados project in St Peter is set to create around 200 jobs during its 20-month construction phase and approximately 30 permanent roles once the development is complete, according to Chairman of B.J. Investments Limited, Bjorn Bjerkhamn.
Construction is expected to begin next Monday, with projected completion in mid-2026.
The project, according to Bjerkhamn, is also expected to inject some $30 million in foreign exchange into the local economy.
In his opening remarks at the groundbreaking
ceremony on Friday, Bjerkhamn expressed his pride in the project, as he reflected on his long-standing connection to the island.
“At a time when investors are retreating, we are not only contributing to the economic well-being of Barbados but also helping in maintaining employment here in this beautiful island,” he said.
The WestBeach development will feature 24 resort condominium units, a mix of 20 two-bedroom and four three-bedroom units, designed with luxury and community in mind.
Bjerkhamn noted that funding for the financing of the development and construction costs of this project will mainly come from foreign exchange sources.
“Together with the projected foreign exchange income generated by the sale of these units, we will put $30 million in foreign exchange into the economy of Barbados,” he said.
Chief Operating Officer of B.J. Investments Limited, Derek Edwards further outlined some of the key features of the project, including a rooftop deck that will offer stunning West Coast views.
“One of the many highlights of West Beach is the shared rooftop deck…. This shared space will truly be the crown jewel of the building,” he said.
The B.J Investment Limited officials gave the assurance that construction will be carried out by experienced Barbadian contractors and will focus on utilising locally produced materials.
Prime Minister Mia Mottley, who attended the ceremony and broke ground on the project, commended the development’s contribution to the island’s economy and its potential to boost the tourism product.
She noted that the WestBeach project is part of the “renaissance in the development of tourism and other housing projects” happening in the country.
She praised the job-creating ability of the project, stating, “I am told that it is expected that over 200 people will work on this site… That is 200 Barbadian families benefiting from the ability to be able to take care of their families and to continue to craft or enhance their craft in a meaningful way with the experience of participating in projects like this.”
Mottley also linked the project to broader national economic efforts.
“I want to thank you, Bjorn, for continuing to believe in this country. This is but one of the projects, and I also want to make the link that the tourism-related projects like this, anchored by affordable housing for Barbadians, gives us the best in both worlds,” she said.
“[It] allows our people to be able to realise the dream of owning a piece of the rock while ensuring that those who must help us pay our bills because of the limited population are also attracted here,” the PM added. (SM)
