Above: Jamaica Tourism Minister Dr Wykeham McNeill

By the Caribbean Journal staff

Jamaica is planning a major revamp to a number of the island’s public beaches.

The country’s Tourism Minister, Dr Wykeham McNeill, said this week that 14 beaches in Jamaica were already being targeted for initial development under the new programme, which would create recreational public spaces at such beaches.

The project would include the creation of free recreational facilities for locals and tourists, from play areas to tables with seating to adequate parking to picnic areas.

It is being undertaken by the Tourism Enhancement Fund, the National Environment and Planning Agency and the Urban Development Corporation.

“Years ago…you would be driving along and decide you want to stop at a beach…(and) there were more areas where you could just go and swim,” McNeill said. “It is our feeling that there must be places across the length and breadth of this island where people can go…and have access to the best beaches in the country.”