Prime Minister Dr. The Most Honourable Andrew Holness has called for a comprehensive and sustained effort to transform Jamaica’s urban centres, positioning urban renewal as a critical driver of productivity, public order, and national development.
Addressing the UDC Board Retreat on April 30, the Prime Minister highlighted the need to address long-standing issues affecting town centres and built environments.
“We must look at responding to urban decay and create a system for urban renewal, especially to give a new lease on life to our town centres, which are chaotic, untidy, and do not lend themselves to productivity and efficiency in the conduct of business.”
Dr. Holness emphasised that the design and condition of communities directly influence economic activity and public safety, noting that poorly structured environments can limit law enforcement effectiveness.
“We have realised great progress in crime fighting; however, there is a limit to what police can do, particularly as it relates to how our communities are built. The way many of our communities are structured lends to them becoming a refuge for criminals.”
He underscored the need to create communities that are orderly, functional, and “policeable,” while acknowledging the complexity of issues such as informal settlements.
“Squatting is an issue. It is complex because we must have sympathy, but we must also recognise that persons who are squatting are not able to appreciate the need and difficulty associated with bringing in the relevant infrastructure to support residential life.”
The Prime Minister further stressed that development must be carried out responsibly, particularly with regard to environmental impact.
“The longer projects take, the more impact they have on the environment, and that is something we are actively seeking to avoid.”
He also called on the UDC to improve the aesthetics and functionality of urban spaces.
“The UDC must improve the aesthetics of urban centres and rescue our towns as we seek to repair disorder, create cleanliness, and assist with traffic and congestion issues.”
