Management of La Pleasure Beach has rejected claims that it is operating as a squatter on the beachfront, following the demolition of its facility and allegations concerning ownership of the land.
In a statement issued on Sunday, October 4, management said it had taken note of recent comments attributed to the management of Labadi Beach Hotel suggesting that La Pleasure Beach was occupying the beachfront unlawfully.
La Pleasure Beach strongly disputed the characterisation, insisting that it has neither encroached on the beachfront nor operated as a squatter.
According to management, the facility has operated at the location for several years on land it maintains is lawfully held.
The beach operator said the central issue should be determined by examining the relevant land documents and the history of dealings between the two parties.
La Pleasure Beach questions ownership claim
At the heart of La Pleasure Beach’s response is what management describes as a history of correspondence between itself and Labadi Beach Hotel over access to and use of the land.
Management said records in its possession show that Labadi Beach Hotel repeatedly approached La Pleasure Beach over arrangements that would allow hotel guests to access the beach.
It cited three key instances.
In 2007, according to La Pleasure Beach, Labadi Beach Hotel wrote to its management requesting access to or use of the land, and the request was granted.
The hotel allegedly returned in 2010 to seek a renewal, which La Pleasure Beach says was granted for another 10 years.
Then, in 2022, the hotel reportedly approached the beach operator again, seeking a further renewal for 20 years.
La Pleasure Beach argues that the history of these requests raises questions about the assertion that Labadi Beach Hotel has always owned the entire beachfront area where the beach facility operates.
“If Labadi Beach Hotel’s position is that it owns the entire beachfront on which La Pleasure Beach operates, a legitimate question arises: why would the hotel repeatedly write to the management of La Pleasure Beach seeking to rent land to enable its guests to access the beach?” management said.
Demolition affects business and livelihoods
La Pleasure Beach said the demolition of its facility has affected not only the business but also its employees, customers and other individuals whose livelihoods are connected to its operations.
Management therefore called on the relevant authorities and stakeholders to carefully review all documentation relating to the disputed land before reaching conclusions about ownership or occupation.
These, it said, should include land documents, historical correspondence, agreements, renewals and other relevant records.
The management further argued that disputes over land ownership and usage should be resolved through established legal and administrative processes.
It cautioned against unilateral actions that could negatively affect businesses and the livelihoods of people who depend on them.
Beach operator ready to present documents
La Pleasure Beach said it remains prepared to submit its documentation to the appropriate authorities and, if necessary, pursue the matter through the courts and other appropriate legal channels.
The management also appealed to the public and media to allow documentary evidence to guide the ongoing discussion.
“La Pleasure Beach is not a squatter operation,” management stated, reiterating its claim to the land on which it operates.
It said it is ready to substantiate its position with the relevant documents.
The statement was issued by the Management of La Pleasure Beach as the dispute over the beachfront and the circumstances surrounding the demolition continues.
