The recently launched Sandals Barbados in Dover, Christ Church, has closed for major renovations.
Sandals Resort International confirmed to the DAILY NATION yesterday via a Press release that the hotel is expected to reopen in December following the eight-month, US$65 million (BDS$130 million) refurbishment of the resort’s 280 existing rooms and additions.
Sandals’ chairman Gordon “Butch” Stewart said: “When we acquired the former Casuarina property in August, we knew we were buying great potential; here was a lovely resort that could be turned into something truly magical. We believe it was the correct thing to do to stay open for the season and now the time has come for the ‘Sandalisation’ to start and drive forward into what is an exciting future.”
The project is expected to generate 1 000 construction jobs in addition to 100 existing team members undertaking Sandals exchange and overseas training programmes during the time. At completion, the resort will include the introduction of seven new gourmet restaurants, bringing the total to ten.
“We’ve consulted extensively with all the different stakeholders, including trade unions, team members as well as the political entities of Barbados – including the Government and the Opposition – and we’re delighted that everyone sees the long-term vision and potential of this resort as we do. We cannot wait to reopen,” said Stewart.
Last year the world-renowned resort chain, famed for its service and enticing surroundings, paired with Barbados for the first time with plans for two properties to bear its name.
The multi-million dollar facelift will include a major revamp of the hotel’s lobby as well as the addition of an exclusive Club Sandals Lounge, Departure Lounge and an expanded Red Lane Spa.
It will also feature Sandals’ highly-acclaimed Discovery Dining programme, including restaurant concepts such as Butch’s Chophouse, French-style patisserie Café de Paris and Sandals’ first ever Indian Restaurant.
Two new tennis courts, eight new elevators and Sandals butler facilities will also be included in an extensive project that will see the full-time workforce increase to more than 500.
According to the release, local tourism, construction and the island should benefit as a result of the resort’s higher room total.
“In addition, the resort chain will heighten its marketing of Barbados as a tourism destination during the construction phase and, on reopening launch a new attraction programme that will see more and more guests venture out to experience Barbados as a destination,” it added. (PR/AC)
