Government to buy Almond Beach Village

Bridgetown.

The Government of Barbados has indicated its intention to purchase Almond Beach Village in St Peter and put it back into operation in the shortest time possible.

A press statement from the Barbados Tourism Investment (BTi) issued today said. the Government at this time cannot divuge the details of the agreement as they are still in the stages of negotiations with Almond Resorts International the owners of the proprty

According to the release this latest development would allow the 400 rooms at the Almond Beach Village to be put back in operation in a manner that will positively impact our tourist arrivals in 2014.

"The increased number of bed-nights will also go a long way in assisting Barbados to achieve a targeted five per cent increase in visitor arrivals for 2014", the release said.

The release also stated that the Government decision to buy the Almond Beach Village is part of a wider strategy aimed at restoring buoyancy in the tourism industry in Barbados and is ultimately in the best interest of the people of Barbados.

"Every effort is also being made to protect existing airlift into Barbados and indeed to grow overall capacity to ensure that Barbados has a good winter season and that 2014 represents a year of strong growth in arrivals and earnings" added the release.