By the Caribbean Journal staff

More details have emerged on Sunwing’s new Planet Hollywood resort project in St Maarten.

Officials said construction on the beachfront property will soon launch, with an 18-month completion timeline, according to a statement from the Ministry of Tourism in St Maarten.

The recently-announced project will be set on the site of the former Sonesta Great Bay resort in St Maarten, with a 450-room property, along with a “Sky Lounge” and a sports bar with a nightclub.

Demolition of the Great Bay Beach Hotel began a few months ago, with completion set within the next several weeks, according to Daniel Diaz, executive vice president of hotels and resorts for Sunwing Travel Group.

Crucially, the property will be constructed to meet the hurricane-proof standards set in Miami-Dade County, Fla.

“Once we obtain the permits we will be ready to start construction right away,” Diaz said.

Once the resort is completed, Sunwing plans to increase its flights to St Maarten to four per week to meet demand for the new Planet Hollywood.

It will also be a major economic boost for St Maarten, with nearly 1,000 jobs projected upon opening.

— CJ