WILLEMSTAD – The APC Plaza complex remains closed following the discovery of asbestos on the premises late last year, with authorities now carrying out a careful and independent follow-up investigation under official supervision.
The presence of asbestos was identified in mid-December after independent testing using adhesive samples on the grounds and rooftops of the complex. Shortly thereafter, the Algemeen Pensioenfonds Curaçao (APC) informed stakeholders that access to APC Plaza would be suspended indefinitely as a precautionary measure.
According to APC, the follow-up investigation is being conducted under the direction and oversight of the competent inspection authorities. As long as this process is ongoing, the building will remain closed, and no timeline has been set for reopening.
In response to questions about the current situation, APC confirmed that the closure was implemented immediately after asbestos was detected, citing health and safety concerns. Employees who normally work at APC Plaza have since been relocated to alternative sites at Gomezplein, the Zeelandia Office Park, or are working from home. The pension fund stated that staff have been adequately equipped to continue their duties remotely.
At this stage, APC says it cannot provide further details about the scope of the findings, potential remediation costs, or whether any financial consequences may arise. For questions relating to inspection outcomes and regulatory oversight, APC refers to the relevant authorities. Matters concerning the adjacent cultural facilities fall under the responsibility of the Sentro Pro Arte, which is managing its own trajectory.
When the closure was announced around December 19, APC stressed that the site must not be accessed under any circumstances. The restriction applies to all individuals, including employees, tenants, contractors, security staff and visitors. Since then, APC Plaza has remained fully vacated, with parking areas also out of use.
The investigation remains ongoing, and APC has indicated that further information will be shared once more clarity is available from the inspection authorities.
