Fort Clarence Beach upgrade begins

THE URBAN Development Corporation (UDC) has embarked on the Fort Clarence Beach Park upgrade project, a comprehensive plan to transform the appearance and offerings of the popular beach attraction in Hellshire, St Catherine.

Phase one of the project, valued at $15 million, will see the construction of a new administrative building. Alpha Construction Company Limited has been contracted to complete the work within the fourth quarter of the 2016-17 financial year.

Work to be implemented in subsequent phases include an overhaul of the attraction’s entrance facade, upgrading of restrooms, installation of food-vending kiosks, all aligned with the approved master plan for the beach park.

The corporation also envisions implementing enhancements to the landscape, building a new multipurpose recreational house, as well as improving the current picnic area and recreational areas for children.

Also included in the master plan for the park is the construction of additional facilities for sports, such as a beach football, volleyball court with the appropriate seating, creating opportunities for the hosting of sporting events on site.

The Fort Clarence Beach Park, at approximately 3.4 hectares, is the only licensed public beach serving the Kingston Metropolitan Area, accommodating over 95,000 patrons in the 2015-16 financial year.

ST CATHERINE