KINGSTON, Jamaica— The Government is moving ahead with plans to develop Fort Rocky as a major venue in the Port Royal Entertainment Zone.

“In building the Fort Rocky venue, we had to conduct an ecological assessment of the site, which caused the delay, as well as a survey of flora and fauna and a study of sound and light,” Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Olivia Grange, said during her contribution to the 2024/25 Sectoral Debate in the House of Representatives on Tuesday.

Grange informed that these have been critical in determining the type of entertainment activities that should take place at Fort Rocky, considering potential effects on residents, aviation and sensitive ecological resources in the area.

“We are now aware that changes in light or noise in an ecosystem may have an impact on not only the functions of individual species, but the overall function of the ecosystem. So, we have to design the light and the sound in a specific way to use that venue. We have been deliberately careful and sensitive in the development,” she noted.

The minister reported to the House that based on the findings on the environmental assessment, Fort Rocky is suitable for the purpose intended with careful environmental and ecological monitoring.

“This year, we will proceed to build out the parking lots and viewing decks at Fort Rocky,” Grange said.

Meanwhile, Grange noted that the Government is positioning JamWorld to become the first operational 24-hour venue.

She said site clearing, repairs and other works to make JamWorld suitable for events have been done.

“We have also completed the Surveyor’s ID report, which is a foundation for architectural drawings, topographical map and development plan for Jamworld, which we expect to complete this year, as well as the perimeter fence to secure the property,” Grange said.

A proposal is also being considered for a public-private partnership in developing Jamworld as a TV and Film Soundstage Facility and live performance space. The proposal calls for the development of multiple production soundstages, virtual production and gaming stage, postproduction facilities and a mill, among other facilities.

“Our potential partner anticipates the completion of the topographical map to develop a detailed design plan and move our discussions forward,” Grange said.

-JIS