Three popular public beaches slated for major development—Bartlett

Jamaica is set to significantly enhance three of its public beaches through a major development program, according to Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett. The Ministry of Tourism is currently in the procurement phase to select contractors for upgrading Priory Bathing & Fishing Beach in St Ann, Success Beach in St James, and Paggee Beach in St Mary.

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We are currently in the procurement stage to select the contractors, which will wrap up by the end of this calendar year. Construction is slated for full completion by the end of the 2027/2028 fiscal year.

Bartlett announced the update during the Sectoral Debate in the House of Representatives, stating that contractor selection will conclude by the end of this year. Construction is expected to be fully completed by the end of the 2027/2028 fiscal year. The developments promise to transform these spaces with revenue-generating centers like restaurants and shops, fostering opportunities for local entrepreneurs.

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To ensure peace of mind, the sites will include dedicated security, medical areas and lifeguard facilities. In addition, essential amenities, including wastewater infrastructure, expanded parking, and full accessibility features, will accommodate all visitors, while unique architecture celebrates Jamaica’s rich cultural aesthetic.

The minister highlighted that the upgraded sites will feature dedicated security, medical areas, and lifeguard facilities. Essential amenities, including wastewater infrastructure, expanded parking, and full accessibility features, will be installed. Unique architecture will also celebrate Jamaica's cultural aesthetic. Bartlett stressed that while these projects may not receive the same attention as major hotel developments, their impact on local communities is immediate and profound.

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Our philosophy is simple: Jamaica is blessed with some of the best natural beaches in the world, and every day Jamaicans deserve access to world-class, pristine and safe recreational spaces.

"Our philosophy is simple: Jamaica is blessed with some of the best natural beaches in the world, and every day Jamaicans deserve access to world-class, pristine and safe recreational spaces," Bartlett stated. He added that these improvements enhance spaces where Jamaicans gather, trade, commute, create, and welcome visitors, thereby strengthening the tourism product by making communities more attractive and visitor-ready. The Negril Solar Street Light Project was cited as an example of the Tourism Enhancement Fund's practical impact.

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They improve the spaces where Jamaicans gather, trade, commute, create, and welcome visitors. They also strengthen the tourism product by making communities more attractive, accessible, organised and visitor-ready.