Keeping dance at Fort Rocky
Published:Wednesday | March 12, 2025 | 12:06 AM
THE EDITOR, Madam:
I was alarmed to hear about the development taking place at Fort Rocky, on the Palisadoes Strip by Port Royal, and to read in the media that the Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation was apparently unaware of this development. Dubbed as one of several venues being built as entertainment spots in Kingston, Fort Rocky is an area that is considered environmentally sensitive, with mangroves and other natural habitat.
The development is reportedly being led by the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, along with the Jamaica National Heritage Trust – two organisations which ought to know better, and understand heritage and the links to culture, tourism and the preservation of our history. The National Environment and Planning Agency has already issued enforcement notices of breaches on the project.
I am all for development and progress. And it is possible that the site could be modified to protect its historical significance, while blending with a functional space for entertainment. However, there are other parts of the strip which could be more ideal spaces for development. I’ve seen images of what looks like the destruction of parts of the old fort and remnants, including abandoned structures, storerooms and walls.
According to the Jamaica National Heritage Trust website, Fort Rocky, an abandoned fort, was built around 1888 and it was enclosed by a wall with guns mounted for protection. It remains a significant piece of Jamaica’s heritage and history. Minister Grange in a statement to Parliament recently, informed that, Fort Rocky is set to host a major event on March 15, at which time they’ll “announce and signal to the country that Fort Rocky is ready and available to host entertainment events in a way that will not disturb ... our neighbour.” Did anyone also consider the impact to road traffic to and from the airport, which was a problem several years ago due to a major event along the strip?
Port Royal remains a special place to visit–the Giddy House, the quaint town and the forts, and of course, Gloria’s, known for its seafood fare. The area has a lot of potential and could be the catalyst to drive tourism in the capital, but proper planning and consultation is required. Development includes context, and is the reason why we have laws, by-laws, and a process of approvals.
P. CHIN