According to the Prime Minister, the Most. Hon. Andrew Holness, construction of the Port Royal Museum is progressing well and is expected to be completed by the end of May 2023.
The selected operators will then proceed with the development of the museum’s interior and exhibits. The museum is anticipated to be operational by December 2023.
Mr. Holness also announced that he instructed the Port Authority of Jamaica (PAJ) in 2022 to develop the East Harbour as a cruise port. He further directed the PAJ to utilize a public-private partnership (PPP) framework to build hotels, resorts, residences, shops, galleries, and restaurants on the lands surrounding West and East Harbours, Titchfield Hill, Navy Island, Boundbrook, and the Folly Lands.
The Prime Minister explained that the aim is to create a sustainable tourism product that aligns with the unique character of Portland, offering low-density and high-value experiences. He added that the procurement process for awarding a consultancy contract to develop the Master Plan for the entire area is complete, with an expected completion date of September 2023. The Master Plan will define the development, determine the infrastructure location, and establish the logical sense of how the proposed development will interconnect with the surrounding area.
This ambitious and extensive project is set to bring significant opportunities and jobs to the people of Portland. It is expected to be the largest of its kind in the region. The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of the Master Plan as the first step in any such development, and its completion will allow the mobilization of various components that flow from the plan.
