Holness Defends Development Record at Bonebrook Urban Centre Tour in Portland

Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness has again sought to defend his administration's record on development, pointing to visible progress across Jamaica as opposition figures continue to question the government's handling of healthcare, road infrastructure and disaster response.

Speaking during a recent tour of the Bonebrook Urban Centre in Portland, Dr Holness said tangible gains are being delivered nationwide. "Brick by brick. Asphalt laid by asphalt laid. Houses handing over. We are improving the lives of the Jamaican people," he said.

The centre was announced in April 2023 and is being positioned as a driver of economic activity for the parish. Dr Holness said the project is designed to improve daily life and ease pressure on Port Antonio by reducing congestion and traffic flows, while making the town more functional and opening space for new investment.

More than three years after the announcement, work on the site stands at 58 per cent completion, with full delivery expected by February 2027. The overall development is valued at $4.2 billion, including a $2.7 billion budget for the construction phase.

Dr Holness challenged anyone who disputes the government's account of progress on the ground. "I want anyone today to contest the things that I have said. Let them say that there is no building operating here. There's no building going on here. That bone brook isn't materializing. Let them deny it. Let them deny that there is a bypass being built here. Let them deny that the plans are now moving from plans to execution for the East Harbor and the West Harbor. Let them deny it," he said.

Officials expect the centre to generate significant economic activity in Portland and to support an estimated 2,000 to 3,000 jobs during both the construction and operational phases.

The chairman of the Factories Corporation of Jamaica said the project represents more than a new urban centre, noting that it aligns with the character of Port Antonio and its surroundings and sets a standard for how future development should be approached.

Dr Holness said the government will keep showing Jamaicans the work being done to improve their lives.