BIU Tour Fairmont Southampton Renovation
Executives from the Bermuda Industrial Union recently joined Westend Properties representatives for a tour of the renovation and construction work taking place at the Fairmont Southampton property.
A spokesperson said, “The transformative renovation of the Fairmont Southampton, one of Bermuda’s most iconic resorts, is advancing steadily, marking a significant step toward revitalising the property as a leading luxury destination in the region.”
RJ Jackson, PDSI Project Manager; Kiaran MacDonald, Fairmont Southampton CEO; Arnold Smith, BIU Chief Union Organizer; Renee Jones, BIU Treasurer; Chris Maybury, Ownership Group; Chris Furbert, BIU President; Margaux Mielcarek, Gencom SVP of Development; Marcus Jackson, PDSI Lead Field Project Manager; Kryshae Furbert-Wilson, BIU Education Officer.
BIU President Chris Furbert said: “As we toured the property, we could see significant progress has been made in recent months. At the main hotel, demolition is largely complete, and renovations are underway. Exterior improvements, including roof repairs and replacement are ongoing, and plaster demolition on the hotel façade is substantially complete across all wings.
“The Ocean Club’s full transformation is well advanced, including entire roof replacement and repairs to the existing structure. Foundation work for new structures is substantially complete, and the new open air beach-side restaurant, pool facilities, changing rooms and back of house areas are being constructed. The building permit for the new Wastewater Treatment Plant has been secured, and demolition of existing components is underway, with the plant project remaining on track for timely completion.”
“There are currently more than 250 workers on site and since the start of the renovation project more than 400 skilled individuals have been involved, including more than a dozen Bermudian businesses and more than 150 Bermudians, spouses of Bermudians, and PRCs who are contributing directly or through subcontractors,” a spokesperson said.
Mr Furbert said: “This commitment to local employment underscores the project’s role not only in revitalising a historic landmark but also in supporting Bermuda’s economy and workforce throughout the construction journey and beyond.”
“The progress we’ve seen at Fairmont Southampton is impressive. During the construction phase of this project there have been real opportunities for Bermudians through direct employment with the principal contractors and through the various sub-contractors that also hire Bermudians.
“This is demonstrated by the results of the jobs fare held on August 21st, 2025, where 53 Bermudians submitted applications for employment opportunities made possible through this project. The BIU has consistently advocated for the hiring of Bermudians by contractors and remains steadfast in this commitment. We look forward to seeing the next phase of work and continuing our support for this important hospitality investment in Bermuda’s future that will have a lasting impact on our economy.”
A spokesperson added, “The BIU is looking forward to 2026, when the hotel renovations will be completed and the property will reopen, providing more than 600 permanent employment opportunities for Bermudians.”
