KINGSTON, Jamaica — Work will commence this year on the development of the Negril Public Beach Park in Westmoreland, says Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation, Matthew Samuda.

The project, which is intended to improve public access, will include an improved craft market and an entertainment zone.

Minister Samuda was making his contribution to the Sectoral Debate in the House of Representatives on May 27.

He noted that during this fiscal year, the Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF) will commence the development of three other beach parks. These are Pagee Beach in St Mary, Priory Bathing Beach, also known as Fantasy Beach, and Success Beach in St James.

Minister Samuda said that the administration is building quality beach parks for Jamaicans to access freely.

He noted that the Government, through its regulatory process, has sought to preserve access points to beaches long enjoyed by citizens.

“Hotels that are now getting approvals are required to put in place pathways providing access to citizens to the beaches that they previously had access to, so they are able to access the foreshore and we ensure that they have appropriate parking and other such systems,” Minister Samuda told the House.

“This is… found in proximity of Riu and Royalton in Trelawny, and with other developments that are coming, you will see similar pathways providing access. Beach access, though complete on paper, requires investment, and this Administration has chosen beach access for Jamaicans and continues to choose Jamaica,” he said.

— JIS