Balcony collapses on MoBay street

Barrington Flemming, Gleaner Writer

WESTERN BUREAU:

The St James Parish Council had to issue a condemn notice on a two-storey building in downtown Montego Bay yesterday after a section of its balcony collapsed and fell on to one of the city's busiest thoroughfares.

The council also ordered the occupants to vacate the building at 9 Union Street, which houses a salon, bar and barber shop.

"The roads and works superintendent just did an inspection and his conclusion is that the building is in a state of defect," said mayor of Montego Bay, Charles Sinclair, who was quick on the scene.

"(He) has prepared a notice under the Town Nuisances Regulation that speaks to buildings that are in a defective state, which will require the owner of the building to demolish and/or repair the structure to a state that is satisfactory to the council."

Maurice and Pam Whittingham, operators of Maurice Gas and Appliances on Barnett Street in Montego Bay, own the building.

Mrs Whittingham told The Gleaner she regretted the turn of events, especially as it would create such a major inconvenience to the tenants.

"I am so sorry that this has happened," she stated. "I am, however, happy that no one got hurt. But I am sorry that the tenants will have to suffer such great inconvenience at this time, but we will just have to comply with the parish council."

She said arrangements have been made for a team to clear the rubble and for the building to be fenced off as a safety precaution.

One of the displaced barbers said he was unsure about his next move and that he would have been more comfortable if "time was given to make relocation arrangements".

However, Mrs Whittingham said she and her husband would be awaiting further communication from the parish council to decide on the future of the building.

barrington.flemming@gleanerjm.com