Is it Possible to Balance Economic Growth, Commercial Development and Environmental Considerations?

DUBAI, UAE, December 1, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Aqaba Development Corporation discuses achieving the balance between project objectives, marine and coastal engineering and national economic development objectives.

Marine and coastal development has seen a boom in recent years across the Middle East. This growth is due to high demand for prime waterfront real estate and mixed use developments to sustain the modern urban lifestyle and business requirements.

In order to better understand the challenges and opportunities facing project development Construction IQ has researched the Aqaba Development to better understand their objectives and formula for success.

Aqaba Development Corporation are the central development corporation for the Aqaba Special Economic Zone (ASEZ); ADC is mandated to develop Aqaba Special Economic Zone (ASEZ), build new infrastructure and required superstructure, or expand existing ones, also create necessary business enablers for ASEZ; and to manage and operate its key facilities. ADC plan to complete the preparation of the long-term master plan for the seaport community (Aqaba New Port, Aqaba Container Terminal, Ferry Terminal, Phosphate Terminal, Industrial Terminal, Oil Jetty and Miscellaneous Liquid Jetty), airport and various real estate development projects in addition to its responsibility to implement the ASEZ Master Plan in a manner that ensures integrated development.

ADC had proven to be an ideal model for a true partnership between the public and private sectors where ADC implements Public Private Partnership (PPP) transactions in the development and management of ASEZ's strategic assets thorough maximising attraction of private sector developers/operators to enhance efficiency and ensure funding for the development of the Zone.

ADC also consider the impact of port community's developments on the coastline. ADC consider all projects essential for Jordan's economy, meanwhile, there were some concerns related to the environmental impact on the marine life of the Aqaba Gulf for implementing such projects but all projects conducted an environmental impact assessment according to ASEZA's regulations which included participation of the local community and project stakeholders through conducting public hearings and did all the necessary precautions to prevent any environmental hazards that might be caused through the construction and the operational phase.

When Construction IQ asked Mohammed S. Turk, ADC's CEO what he thought about the event he said "Sponsoring and participating in this summit reflects ADC's continued commitment to provide world class infrastructure for all existing and upcoming projects while maintaining a sustainable balance between developing the Zone and maintaining and preserving its natural environment. Aqaba is quite privileged to welcome this summit, as it represents a platform for professionals in the field to focus on the key industry challenges through regional project case studies and identify opportunities of growth and improvement."

Landmark projects have also been developed in the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain, these projects have added to regional economic growth and commercial development into previously under developed areas or regeneration areas. Achieving project success and creation of exceptional end user environment and urban spaces needs to be balanced with the impact of construction on the environment.

Construction IQ asked Oliver Roborgh, Senior Project Manager, Mourjan Marinas and a speaker at Marine & Coastal Engineering Jordan for his perspective of marine and coastal development. Roborgh said "As we move towards integrated lifestyles, marinas are playing an increasingly important role in the Middle East where boating destinations are being designed along with public spaces and commercial hubs. We are developing and managing some of the region's premier yachting lifestyle destinations and we look forward to being a part of the Marine & Coastal Engineering Jordan event to discuss the current status of the industry, trends and the future of the boating industry."

The Marine and Coastal Engineering Jordan event will take place from the 12 -14 December at the Kempinski Hotel, Aqaba for more information visit http://www.coastalengineeringjordan.com

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SOURCE IQPC Middle East