THE EDITOR, Sir:
The manner in which the heritage potential of Falmouth, Trelawny has to date been totally ignored by the Government, the Tourist Board, and UDC (Urban Development Corporation) is sad. There Jamaica has the makings of a Heritage Town right in the tourist area of the island. And it already has the life facilities and services commensurate with a parish capital.
Its great possibilities were originally recognised by the Georgian Society back in the 60s but although official recognition has come from international sources, nothing whatsoever has been said or done by our own Governments.
This year, the World Monument Organisation has recognised Falmouth as one of the most important heritage sites worldwide that need to be looked after. The OAS-funded feasibility study for the Restoration of Greater Falmouth, in 1998, confirmed its availability in a highly professional survey. Our own National Trust conferred National Monument status on the town. The Town Planning Department zoned the town but is not enforcing its own rules.
The fact is that Falmouth was once the second town in Jamaica and retains many of its 200-year-old buildings produced by Jamaican craftsmen.
Action now could save many of them for the future. Our children and grandchildren need to know about old-time Jamaica and here in Falmouth is the ideal setting for that. The spin-offs for tourism are great and can help revitalise the town, improve the economy and provide unique attractions for both local and overseas visitors to the great benefit of the townspeople. Yes, the capital of Trelawny is the ideal place for Jamaica to get moving on that swing to Heritage Tourism!
Let's face it, in these tough times, we need more than sea, sun and sand, to get our tourist friends "back to Jamaica". The greatest thing we have to offer is a taste of our rich and varied Jamaican culture. Restored Falmouth is the perfect setting and it is right in the centre of the island's prime tourist area.
The input of $100 million in Falmouth right now invested in the ways outlined in the feasibility study would revitalise, not only the town of Falmouth itself, but the whole tourist industry on which the lives of so many Jamaican depend. The tourist product is in immediate need of some dynamic input. Falmouth is the natural centre for heritage tourism from where it will spread islandwide.
I am, etc.,
GEOFFREY DE SELA PINTO
PO Box 700
Montego Bay 2
