OCHO RIOS, St Ann — The transformed Ocho Rios Fishing Village was officially opened on Thursday, with scores of people describing the new look as world-class.

Those who attended the opening ceremony admired the architectural design and building, which is expected to be a major pull for both locals and tourists in Ocho Rios.

Professor Gordon Shirley, PAJ president and chief executive officer, said one of the complaints from cruise ships coming into Ocho Rios was that the fishing village was “unsightly”.

The reconstructed fishing village is not only more beautiful, but it now provides a more comfortable environment for fishermen, shop owners and customers.

In addition to the “beautiful” shops, Professor Shirley pointed out that the village has a cold storage facility, a scaling facility, a lounge for fishermen, and restrooms.

He also assured people attending the function that the fishermen and individuals who are occupying the shops at the village are those who were there before the renovation.

According to Orville Grant, president of the Sailor Hole Fishermen Benevolent Society, the new-look fishing village is like a dream come true.

“A lot of people were doubtful about this project,” he said, expressing his gratitude to all the individuals who worked to make it possible.

Mayor of St Ann’s Bay Michael Belnavis also shared that when the project started there were doubts.

“Many people did not believe this could happen; many believed this was a pipe dream,” he said.

In the meantime, Member of Parliament for St Ann North Eastern Shahine Robinson urged individuals to treat the transformed village with pride.

The Port Authority of Jamaica was responsible for the transformation of Ocho Rios Fishing Village.