Hundreds of jobs delayed – Little Dix not opening this year

The prospect of finding new jobs on Virgin Gorda has become more protracted; this as a resort that once employed hundreds of people today announced that it has scrapped initial plans to reopen this year.

Rosewood Little Dix Bay resort did not divulge a new reopening date, but it attributed the delay to category 5 hurricanes Irma and Maria that destroyed homes and businesses throughout the territory.

At the time the property closed last year for major renovation, it laid off some 300 workers.

The resort’s managing director, Andreas Pade, today announced: “Although Rosewood Little Dix Bay was closed for renovation during the time of the [hurricanes], the resort did sustain damage and therefore will not re-open this December as originally planned.”

“Our priority is to help this beautiful island and its people that we love so dearly recover from this disaster. We are focused on doing everything we can to help rebuild our beloved Virgin Gorda community,” Pade further said.

Little Dix Bay stated that it remains dedicated to assisting with relief efforts on Virgin Gorda, and continues to work closely with community leaders and local government officials to support important recovery efforts.

The resort further explained: “In the immediate aftermath [of the hurricane], an online fundraiser was launched with all proceeds being donated to support local relief efforts. Initial supplies of water, gasoline, and transport have already been donated to Virgin Islands Search and Rescue.”

“The resort has also been in close communication with authorities on the ground to identify urgently needed items, and to ensure that those items are procured and sent to Virgin Gorda.  Rosewood Little Dix Bay is also working on supplying generators that will assist in providing power supply to Spanish Town,” added the resort.

Little Dix Bay was opened first by Laurence S Rockefeller on January 18, 1964. The ongoing renovation include a complete redesign of the resort’s guestrooms and suites, its three restaurants, and overall enhancements to the landscaping.

“Upon reopening, guests will be able to choose from a wealth of elegant villas and guest rooms, including brand new one-bedroom pool suites, complete with private plunge pools, as well as three signature dining venues,” Little Dix Bay said.