The Tribune

By RICARDO WELLS

Tribune Staff Reporter

rwells@tribunemedia.net

OFFICIALS at Atlantis yesterday confirmed the "temporary closure" of the main public access path to Cabbage Beach, as the resort looks to repair a collapsed stairway.

Senior vice president of public affairs Ed Fields said the resort thought it best to close the path completely as it carries out all necessary repairs to the stairwell.

Mr Fields denied the resort was attempting to bar the general public from gaining access to the beach.

Mr Fields told The Tribune: "We are only looking out for the best interest of the persons that use the access. As you know, the stairs collapsed sometime back and we are working to repair that."

He added: "We have to rebuild it, ensure that it is up to code and all is good. Until that time, the access will remain closed to avoid injuries or accidents. We want everyone to occupy this space as safely as they can. This is a step in that direction."

Mr Fields estimated repairs to the stairwell could take up to four weeks.

In early January, The Tribune reported that a 50-year-old French tourist was badly hurt as he tried to get on to the beach when the steps collapsed beneath him, hurling him on to rocks seven feet below.

His wife and children looked on helplessly as the man - unable to move - started being dragged into the ocean by the crashing waves.

He was later rescued and pulled to safety by employees from several surrounding properties.