GOVERNMENT yesterday announced plans to carry out a $50-million rehabilitation project at the Milk River Bath & Spa in Clarendon.

The tourism ministry said the rehabilitation is expected to contribute to the strategic positioning of the historical attraction, and should increase the revenue-earning potential of the facility.

Minister of Tourism and Entertainment Dr Wykeham McNeill told the Jamaica Observer yesterday that the project is expected to start on September 7, and be completed by the end of the year.

The agreement for the project was signed yesterday at the TPDCo boardroom, located at the Ministry of Tourism and Entertainment, Knutsford Boulevard, in Kingston.

According to Dr McNeill, the upgrading work under the project will be carried out on the west wing of the facility.

The $50m-renovation will include:

* demolition and alterations;

* upgrading of the electrical and plumbing systems, ceiling and floor;

* painting and decorating; and

* replacement of leaking and damaged roof sheeting and frame.

Work will be carried out by C and D Construction, the entity was awarded the contract which was put out to public tender.

Minister McNeill said the construction project will provide employment to approximately 30 people.

Yesterday, Noel Arscott, the minister of local government and community development and the member of parliament for the constituency in which the facility falls, welcomed the development and said it presented a great opportunity for the parish of Clarendon and the community of Milk River.

“I feel grateful as member of parliament that the project is on its way,” said Arscott.

— Kimmo Matthews