White Rocks earmarked for real estate, luxury hotel development

Video is unavailable at this time.

A new international expression of interest for the former White Rocks complex was launched today, offering up 45 hectares (449,885 square metres) of land for "modern, creative and innovative" ideas from prospective entrepreneurs.

The former White Rocks complex comprises 38% of the area up for concession.

Contrary to the former development brief for a sports village, which did not allow real estate development, the new brief will allow the development of real estate and luxury five-star hotels, luxury units, and 'high-quality lifestyle community' villages.

Preference is being shown to hotels with suites instead of rooms, huge gardens with fountains and a tranquil ambience.

Minister for the economy Chris Cardona said the development will have to be based on sustainable development concepts in its build, and protect the natural resources on the location, including agricultural, ecological and any historical areas.

The government is targeting “a village of luxury units” that will be fully developed and funded by the private. Cardona said no public funds will be accessible.

“We want a lifestyle community village where White Rocks is transformed into a luxurious facility, complemented with services and recreational programmes for all ages,” he said.

The 65-year-concession includes a Natura 2000 site and excludes land reclamation. Asked what heights will be permitted, Cardona said regulations will be followed and adhered to.

“After years of empty promises on White Rocks, this government is committed to see this project through. It is a prime site which has been left abandoned for years. This project will start during this legislature,” the minister said.

A copy of the EOI document can be picked up from the Privatisation Unit offices until 20 September and interested parties have until 24 October to submit their proposals, after which a Request for Proposals will be issued.

The Privatisation Unit has until 15 October to reply to queries.

Under the previous administration, the White Rocks Project was expected to include €200 million in investment and generate hundreds of jobs but the project fell through. Over €500,000 was spent in government consultancies researching the finance and design of the project.