By Shenia Roberts
Journal Staff Writer

The Free National Movement remains in strong disagreement with the government’s plan to
locate the new hospital on the New Providence Highway bordering Saunders Beach, Perpall
Tract and Highland Park in the western area of New Providence.
Free National Movement Chairman Dr Duane Sands who said that “the Free National Movement
supports the urgent improvement of health care delivery and facilities, including the ongoing
redevelopment of the Princess Margaret Hospital.” however, Dr Sands explained that the project
has two major faults one related to healthcare and the other related to environmental protection.
Dr Sands said the location would not only be a hassle to staff but also emphasized the significant
“green space” it would be built on.
The FNM chairman described Prime Minister Philip Davis’ decision to build on the location as
“hypocrisy” and referred to it as “disturbing.” He explained further saying “over the past three
years, the Prime Minister has travelled the world talking about climate change. His intention to
build the new facility on an environmentally sensitive site dramatically contradicts his words and
his desire to be seen as environmentally friendly.”
Consequently, Dr Sands and the FNM are proposing that the government simply rebuild PMH on
its current property as they say this has been the plan of many governments before them. In
addition to this they are calling on the Government to reconsider what Sands described as “the
Prime Ministers biggest blunder in office.”
However, Dr Darville previously revealed that four sites were already considered, however they
were rejected. The first was a flood zone, the second had caves underground and couldn’t handle
the infrastructure and the others were simply too small. He further explained that this location
has been the most ideal place identified and once approved by environmental health officials the
process will commence. In addition to this he expressed his excitement for this advancement and
how it will positively impact the Bahamian public.

The new hospital will be constructed on 50 acres and financed through a $290 million loan with
the Chinese Export-Import Bank. The high-rise structure is expected to be built within 36 months
and is expected to be “one of the most sophisticated green facilities in the entire region.”
The proposed location has also received backlash from concerned members of the
neighbourhoods that will be affected by the new hospital. Many residents expressed their
concerns for noise pollution, traffic and property devaluation during community townhall
meetings. However, the Minister of Health and Wellness Dr Michael Darville said that the value
of their homes would increase indefinitely. He also reassured residents that the necessary
provisions will be made to alleviate any additional issues, and that the government will strategize
to accommodate their requests.