On 1 May 2026, the Environmental Management Authority approved a Certificate of Environmental Clearance for Superior Hotels Ltd to develop a major Marriott-branded tourism project at Rocky Point, Tobago. The project reportedly includes a 200-room hotel, bungalows, private residences and related infrastructure across approximately 11.99 hectares. The EMA later defended the decision in a 4 May media release, stating that the project supports sustainable development and that the review process considered technical assessments, stakeholder input and issues including marine ecology, drainage, climate resilience and socio-economic impact.
However, reporting by Guardian Media revealed that experts consulted through the EMA process had warned against approval. Dr Anjani Ganase, writing on behalf of the Institute of Marine Affairs, reportedly recommended rejection, while Dr Michelle Cazabon-Mannette of Save Our Sea Turtles Tobago advised the EMA to consider refusing the CEC because of the area’s vulnerability. The concerns mirrored those raised by the Rocky Point Foundation and SpeSeas, which had publicly warned since December 2025 that the proposed development posed risks to sensitive coral reef, sea turtle nesting and cultural heritage assets.
This event negatively affects the enabling environment because it raises concerns about whether civil society input is being taken seriously in environmental decision-making. Although the EMA held a consultation process, the approval of the Rocky Point hotel development despite objections from experts and CSOs suggests that public participation may have had limited influence on the final decision, which may reduce public trust in consultation processes. Additionally, the approval may signal that CSO expertise is less valued when it conflicts with tourism or private sector development interests, thereby affecting perceptions and discourses on civil society. While it could weaken confidence in environmental governance, the event also creates an opportunity to push for greater transparency, stronger monitoring, and clearer rules on how public comments are considered.