Photos & Video: Fairmont Groundbreaking

[Updated with photos] Fairmont Southampton is hosting its groundbreaking ceremony this morning [Nov 13]. We will have additional coverage later on and in the meantime the live video is below.

Update: The live video replay is below:

Update 6.40pm: Premier David Burt’s full statement follows below:

To Cabinet and Parliamentary colleagues, the President of the Bermuda Industrial Union, the Gencom team, ladies and gentlemen, good morning.

I am not sure which cliché best applies to today, but I have settled on this one: better late than never!

A once in a century global pandemic, a war in Europe, global economic uncertainty because of both, and a justifiably cautious hospitality investment environment, have all at varying stages affected the journey to today. However, we are here and each of the parties represented has delivered on a shared commitment to make the redevelopment of this iconic site a reality.

Today’s groundbreaking takes place against the background of growing economic success for Bermuda. We are seeing increased numbers of Bermudians working across multiple sectors, and tourism is the next sector we are determined to grow.

Irrespective of how our tourism fortunes have fared in the last decade, we have never been out of this business, and a signature project like this one will send the clearest signal that we are focused on remaining on the top of the destination map.

I have never [not for one minute] doubted the wider public’s support for this redevelopment, despite the opposition, manufactured or otherwise, that we have faced over the past four years. Likewise, I believe that the people of Bermuda appreciate that the benefits to construction and other related firms, as well as to our airlift and on-Island activities, have been well worth the wait.

This transaction represents the largest-ever hotel project for Bermuda and it ranks as a remarkable achievement when considering the local and international headwinds we have faced.

This project represents jobs for Bermudians, and through the Ministry of Economy and Labour, the Government has been clear on how we wish to see Bermudians welcomed to return to the industry or enter for the first time, with a clear path for upward mobility and career growth.

As we celebrate this new beginning today, I wish to thank all of those who endured endless Zoom calls, pored through innumerable legal and financial documents, late conversations, disturbed holidays, and other things which seemingly were always trying to get in the way.

The reality is, that there are people who believed this day would happen and worked hard to ensure we got to this day and I want to thank everyone for their work in making this day a reality.

We are on the cusp of a genuine renaissance in tourism. The Government’s deliberate leadership and involvement in delivering this redevelopment demonstrates our fundamental belief in achieving the best for Bermuda and Bermudians.

So, as I close, let us remember that today is a good day for Bermuda, and I am proud and honoured to lead a government that did the work to ensure that we bring this place back to where it belongs.

Thank you.

Minister Owen Darrell’s full statement follows below:

Good morning, ladies and gentlemen, distinguished guests, and fellow Bermudians,

It is truly my pleasure to stand here today alongside all of you as we begin an extraordinary new chapter for Bermuda’s tourism industry. Today’s groundbreaking for the redevelopment of the Fairmont Southampton is more than the start of a construction project; it’s the start of a significant step forward for our island’s economy, Bermudian employment, and our future as a premier destination.

The Fairmont Southampton has always held a special place in Bermuda’s tourism landscape, and this remarkable $560 million investment reflects the immense confidence in our island’s potential. Through the shared vision of the private sector and our government’s commitment – including a $75 million sovereign guarantee – we’re ready to welcome this transformation that will make Bermuda an even stronger global destination.

This redevelopment will breathe new life into the Fairmont Southampton, transforming it into a top-tier resort that will attract visitors from around the world, as well as major conferences, and large-scale events. These are essential drivers of our tourism economy, and the enhancements planned here will set new standards for excellence. This resort will soon stand as a beacon of world-class service and elegance, where visitors from around the globe can experience Bermuda at its finest.

Equally important, this project will have a transformative impact on our people. Today marks the beginning of new opportunities for Bermudians – the construction jobs in the short term and, more importantly, the long-term careers in hospitality that will become available when these doors open. These roles will allow Bermudians to build their futures within this critical industry, contributing to a sustainable economy that supports us all.

The increased hotel bed capacity this redevelopment will bring is crucial to our island. By expanding our ability to host more guests, we not only enhance our hospitality offerings but also lay the groundwork for increasing airlift, strengthening our tourism product, and bringing more business to our local partners across the island. This project signals to the world that Bermuda is open, ready, and committed to providing unforgettable experiences in a destination like no other.

This is a moment to celebrate and a project that will shape our future. I extend heartfelt thanks to everyone who has contributed to bringing this vision to life.

As the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport, I stand with you today, on the threshold of a stronger, more vibrant tourism industry, one that brings Bermudians closer to the many possibilities that await us.

Thank you.

#BermudaBusiness #FairmontSouthampton #HotelNews #SDOforSouthP

Category: All, Business, News, Photos, Videos