Developers of Celebration Jamaica — one of two companies which received a provisional approved integrated resort development order from the government of Jamaica in mid-2015 — announced plans last week to break ground for a planned 2000-room resort “early in 2016”.

Approved integrated resort status is a precursor to the receipt of a licence to operate casino gaming in Jamaica. The other recipient is Harmony Cove Limited – a partnership between the government-owned Harmonisation Limited, with 49 per cent, and private-sector partner Tavistock Group — a global investment company, with 51 per cent.

Under the terms of the provisional order, Celebration Jamaica and Harmony Cove Limited are required to start construction by the middle of 2016.

Previously Celebration Jamaica said it estimated cost for Phase 1 at US$500 million. The development, located in Montego Bay, is the brainchild of Robert Trotta, the businessman who also conceptualised the Palmyra condominium complex.

On Thursday Celebration Jamaica Development Limited issued a release stating that construction will occur on 90 acres in Rose Hall, St James.

“It will ultimately boast the required 2000 guest rooms, with 1000 rooms being developed in the short term. Additionally, there will be an entertainment experience centre to include a state- of-the-art music studio; a theatre that will seat 1,200; a banquet hall and casino,” the company release said.

Celebration gave its office address as Tortola, BVI, and Barbican Road in Kingston.

The release quoted Celebration Jamaica’s Founder, Robert T Trotta, as stating that the resort and casino development is named for its intent, “as it will aim at celebrating all things Jamaican and Jamaican music in particular”.

Trotta and his partners say they are using the services of Celebration Casino Corp, from Canada, who have developed and operated 30 properties internationally ranging from small to integrated projects. The group has developed detailed operational plans for Celebration Jamaica, the release said.

— Avia Collinder