Trelawny municipality targets widespread construction breaches

The Trelawny Municipal Corporation is grappling with a surge of illegal construction as scores of residents build without first submitting plans for approval and that enforcement action will be intensified, Chairman Collen Gager has warned.

“We are facing a challenge where people are into constructions without receiving requisite approvals from the municipality. Any day now our officers can go out and serve notices to 20 persons who are in breach,” he told The Gleaner.

He said municipal compliance officers have identified multiple unapproved projects across the parish and are preparing enforcement actions. The problem, he stressed, undermines both public safety and the corporation’s finances, since plan‑processing fees are an important source of revenue.

“Sutprisingly among construction breaches are churches. Right here in Falmouth we have before the courts a church which has not complied with the necessary building requirenents of the municipality. We are determined to have the regulations adhered to. Our officers will be ramping up the checks on breaches," said Gager, who is also the mayor of Falmouth.

Gager noted that at least one matter is already before the parish court, signalling the corporation’s readiness to prosecute persistent offenders. He warned that inspectors will intensify spot checks and issue stop‑orders where necessary.

Under the Building Act and local regulations, developers must secure municipal approval before breaking ground, a process that includes structural reviews and environmental assessments. Failure to comply can attract fines, demolition orders, or prosecution.

The mayor urged residents and organisations—including faith‑based groups—to regularise outstanding plans, cautioning that the corporation will no longer overlook infractions. “We intend to protect public safety and safeguard much‑needed revenue,” he said.

Municipal officials are advising builders to visit the corporation’s offices in Falmouth to file applications and obtain technical guidance before undertaking any new projects.

- Leon Jackson

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