By Zoila Palma: Tourism stakeholders in San Pedro Town have voiced opposition to the proposed construction of a new airport near Secret Beach and any proposed bridge connecting Mexico to Ambergris Caye, calling on the Government of Belize to prioritize the island’s pressing infrastructure and public service needs.
The concerns were raised during a meeting on November 2, 2026, convened by the Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA) San Pedro Chapter and BTIA National President Efren Perez at the SunBreeze Hotel.
During the meeting, industry representatives discussed the proposed airport, its potential impacts and whether the project should be pursued at this time.
Participants identified several urgent priorities, including improving infrastructure, easing traffic congestion, strengthening garbage management, protecting the environment, addressing housing needs and improving access to healthcare and public safety. Stakeholders said these issues directly affect residents’ quality of life, visitors’ experiences and the long-term sustainability of Ambergris Caye’s tourism industry.
The BTIA also pointed to World Bank findings highlighting the risks associated with unplanned development, inadequate municipal services, pollution and coastal erosion in San Pedro and Ambergris Caye.
BTIA warned that allowing these challenges to worsen could undermine the island’s appeal as a tourism destination and threaten the livelihoods of people who depend on the industry. It maintained that development decisions must be guided by sound planning and the needs of the local community.
Minister of Blue Economy and Disaster Risk Management Andre Perez, who attended the meeting, informed stakeholders that he also opposes closing the John Greif II Airstrip in downtown San Pedro and constructing a new airport at this time.
He emphasized the need for public consultation on the proposed northside airport, stating that the concerns of the community would inform his position. His comments came as tourism representatives called for greater engagement before major decisions affecting the island’s future are made.
The BTIA San Pedro Chapter reaffirmed its commitment to gathering stakeholders’ recommendations and pursuing dialogue with the Government of Belize on the proposed developments and the island’s immediate needs.
The post San Pedro tourism stakeholders oppose new airport, urge Government to address Island priorities appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
By Zoila Palma: Tourism stakeholders in San Pedro Town have voiced opposition to the proposed construction of a new airport near Secret Beach and any proposed bridge connecting Mexico to Ambergris Caye, calling on the Government of Belize to prioritize the island’s pressing infrastructure and public service needs. The concerns were raised during a meeting
The post San Pedro tourism stakeholders oppose new airport, urge Government to address Island priorities appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.