Why is this iconic view so important to all Bermudians and visitors to our island? Castile Holdings wants to replace this view with a row of luxury homes. If the company is successful in setting a new precedent by changing the recreation zoning to residential 2 of this famous Riddell’s Bay landmark, it will jeopardize the viability of every sports club in Bermuda. The Planning Act has protected the limited space on the island that is used for recreational purposes, but this precedent would give real estate developers the ammunition to buy out sports clubs and sell off the real estate. Their lawyers will point to the Planning Department’s “Riddell’s Bay precedent” to support their actions. This would be one of Bermuda’s most damaging decisions since the Planning Act was passed in 1974. What is a legal precedent? According to lawgovpol.com, the doctrine of precedent is one of the principles that underpins common law. The Latin name for the doctrine of precedent is stare decisis (‘stand by that decided’). It is a principle that requires judges to follow the rulings and determinations of judges in higher courts, where a case involves similar facts and issues. Judges/Magistrates refer to previous, similar situations and can apply the same decision to future cases..." When legal decisions are made, "the law of precedent is established". This is why it is important for everyone on island to be aware of and to PREVENT the re-zoning of any land that is zoned Recreation. The Riddell's Bay property is 90+ acres of rare, vital green, recreational land. The new owners plan to seek permission to re-zone and sell large lots initially focusing on the most valuable ocean front property. THE GOOD NEWS is that this action can be stopped! We have over 670 petitioners who believe the new owners request for a zoning change would violate the Development and Planning Act 1974 (“the Act”) and set a precedent that would jeopardize all golf courses, parks, sporting fields, clubs and other areas that are currently protected under the Bermuda Plan (2008). It is important for every Bermudian to add their name to the petition and let your politicians and the Planning Department know that this will harm Bermuda.