Dignitaries, business leaders and construction staff gathered at the Fairmont Southampton for podium speeches before “breaking ground” at the site, signaling a “new chapter” for Bermuda’s tourism industry
It’s official … a groundbreaking ceremony was held at the Fairmont Southampton Wednesday morning, formally marking the re-birth of what was described as “an iconic, world renowned asset.”
Construction work has begun at the site some six years after the property was due to close for renovations before the pandemic.
Developers said they’ve set an ambitious target to see the hotel re-open its doors in the next 18 months.
Karim Alibhai, the principal of Gencom – owners of the Westend Properties, who manage the resort said, “December 19 is when we made this acquisition. Talk about timing. Here comes March 2020, the world discovers something called COVID and things start going into shutdown mode.” “There was no playbook even though we’ve been experienced going through a crisis working through new properties, new acquisitions, new builds.”
“This was a complete different playbook.”
He added, “Just all the things that could be thrown against us were happening. But the steadfast belief of President [Chris] Furbert, Premier Burt, other members of Parliament who continue to be very supportive that said we have your back. Just keep going and get this done.”
The Fairmont Southampton is due to be opened Spring 2026.
