Makaryos cultural tourism development set to take off this year |26 February 2024
Representatives of Aries Investment, Glacis district and Seychelles Institute of Culture, Heritage and the Arts visiting the building (Photos: Contributed)
The Makaryos building development project is set to take off this year, offering the North East Point community a convenient, multi-purpose facility right on their doorstep.
The long overdue project is set to transform the community, while serving as an attraction to visitors.
The ancient World War II bunker will be transformed into a three-storey building, boasting an interactive history museum, boutique-hotel style accommodation, and retail outlet, as well as other essential services such as a pharmacy, ATM, and space for utility and telecoms service providers.
In addition, the building will consist of a restaurant and kiosks for local artisans to be able to showcase and sell their works.
Aries Investment comprising father and son duo, Bernard and Benjamin Port Louis, will be undertaking the project, after being awarded the tender in 2015.
Director Benjamin Port-Louis explained that the development plan is currently being finalised, and will be submitted to the Seychelles Planning Authority (SPA) for approval this week. This follows a recent site visit with the Seychelles Institute of Culture, Heritage and the Arts (Snicha), the Seychelles National Heritage Resource Council and district authorities, whereby they discussed the proposed plan.
“We were making some small adjustments, to maximise the commercial space so we can fit more community businesses,” said Mr Port-Louis.
“The idea is to support the community and other local businesses,” Mr Port-Louis stated.
The building’s architecture will be traditional Creole-style. Once approved, it is expected that construction will be completed within 18 months.
Speaking to Seychelles NATION, member of the National Assembly (MNA) for Glacis Regina Esparon said the district authorities are eager for the project to progress, to change the image of the area.
“We have observed that when cruise ships are here, there is nothing for tourists to see when touring the northern side of the island, from town to Beau Vallon. There is a major gap, which is why we initiated the project, so at least there will be something there that will generate some revenue, give tourists something to see, and create employment for North East Point residents,” Mrs Esparon stated.
Despite securing the tender, the company faced obstacles and delays after concerns were raised over the tender process, as other parties claimed that they had indicated an interest in the development, secretary general for the Snicha David Andre informed the National Assembly last year.
Following verification, it was determined that Aries Investment was the only investor to submit a tender, and the company was offered the sub-lease, Mr Andre said.
The Makaryos building is located on plot H5028, and measures 1,367 square metres.
Hon. Esparon on July 12, 2023 sought clarifications on the development’s progress, noting that the now dilapidated structure is a hotspot for illegal and delinquent activities.
Aside from the Makaryos development, efforts are ongoing to develop the North East Point area.
A fruit and vegetable market was recently completed opposite the Makaryos building. Additionally, a butchery outlet is currently under construction.
Laura Pillay