The $2.5 billion Emerald Bay Development in Nadawa is progressing well with the development of 184 residential lots as part of its first phase, marking a significant milestone for one of the largest projects planned for the Central Division.
Nasinu Town Council Chair, Felix Magnus says the project carries major economic and social importance for the municipality, particularly in creating employment opportunities for nearby communities.
Magnus says civil works for the residential subdivision are expected to be completed by mid-year, after which construction of homes will begin.
He says the residential lots will range in size from approximately 400 to 800 square metres and will form part of a gated community with controlled building specifications to ensure quality and uniformity of development.
He says discussions with the developer have emphasised prioritising local employment once housing construction gets under way.
He adds that the development is projected to take approximately seven years to complete in full.
Magnus says that following the completion of the residential phase, the project will move into its commercial stage, which includes plans for seven hotels, a fully fledged stadium, and a commercial and nightlife district.
He says several established hotels are expected to operate within the development as construction progresses.
He says families in the Central and Southern divisions often travel to Denarau for leisure, but Emerald Bay is expected to provide comparable facilities within Nasinu.
He adds that once completed, Emerald Bay could rival Denarau in terms of hotels, entertainment and sporting infrastructure.
Magnus says that despite weather-related setbacks late last year, civil works are continuing, with construction teams accelerating efforts during favourable conditions.
He says that concerns about construction noise have been mitigated through coordination with the relevant authorities, including regulated operating hours.
The Chair says Emerald Bay is envisioned as a transformative project for Nasinu, aimed at strengthening the local economy by attracting investors and encouraging residents to work and spend within the municipality.
He says the development will help drive infrastructure growth and economic expansion as Nasinu works towards achieving city status by 2030.
He adds that with residential lots already being taken up by buyers, Emerald Bay is poised to reshape Nasinu’s urban and economic landscape in the years ahead.
