Minister of Education Culture Youth & Sport the Honorable Melissa
Gumbs hosted a courtesy visit by the National Restoration Fund (NRF) represented by
CEO Mr. Ugur Ozcan & CFO Mr. Coen Reinders. During the courtesy visit a number of
topics were discussed, including current projects that are ongoing on Sint Maarten, NRF
policies on heritage and monument preservation and the possibilities of the NRF
supporting future initiatives by the Ministry of Education Culture Youth & Sport.
The Minister of Education Culture Youth & Sport also discussed the recent acquisition of
the Belvedere Plantation South and the potential plans that include the restoration of
the main house and surrounding buildings on the property that span over 125,000
square meters. In her discussion with the NRF, Minister Gumbs further explained her
vision for the property, including possibly accessing funding for the development of a
park that would be self-sustaining and act as a green space for highlighting and safe-
guarding the country’s culture and heritage. It is the Minister’s intention to bring these
discussions further along with the NRF and other funding avenues.
The National Restoration Fund (www.restauratiefonds.nl) indicated that they are
currently engaged with the restoration project taking place at Pasture Piece monument
located at #105 LB Scot Road. Pasture Piece is one of 50 properties that are listed on the
Monument List of Sint Maarten. It was built in the early 1900’s and now houses a Bed &
Breakfast, Museum & Event Space. With roots tracing back to the Van Romondt family
and the Retreat Estate sugar plantation, every corner of Pasture Piece tells a story—one
of culture, resilience, and Caribbean grace, for more information visit
www.pasturepiecesxm.com. The courtesy visit ended with a site visit to Pasture Piece.