Over 100 residential lots identified for Coopers Pen relocation

More than 100 residential lots are expected to be made available in the Hague and Clifton area of Trelawny to facilitate the relocation of residents of Coopers Pen in the parish.

This was disclosed by Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Infrastructure Development with responsibility for Land Titling and Settlements, Robert Montague, who indicated that the area is part of an integrated housing development planned for Government-owned lands.

He was speaking with journalists during a visit to the area on Tuesday, where he toured the property with the State Minister in the Ministry of Tourism and Member of Parliament for Trelawny Northern, Tova Hamilton, and Mayor of Falmouth, Councillor Colin Gager.

Montague said the proposed development will see the Housing Agency of Jamaica (HAJ) spearheading residential development on part of the property, with units being sold on the open market at commercial rates.

He added that other sections of the property will be allocated for the relocation of residents from Coopers Pen.

Montague further stated that the approach is intended to reduce the cost of infrastructure development and lessen the financial burden on taxpayers while addressing the housing and land needs of residents.

He assured that the Government remains mindful of the challenges facing residents of Cooper’s Pen, particularly children, and is continuing its efforts to provide relocation solutions while complying with the court-ordered deadline of November 30.

Meanwhile, Hamilton said residents are being given the opportunity to choose between two relocation options, following consultations with the relevant government agencies.

These include accepting a relocation grant to secure accommodation elsewhere or receiving a residential lot in the Hague and Clifton area, along with a partial relocation grant.

“The last meeting we had, we [outlined] the solutions to the community members, and they are now to indicate what solution they prefer,” Hamilton said.

She noted that the authorities are hoping to determine residents’ preferred options by the end of the week, after which those opting to relocate to the Hague and Clifton area will be able to select their lots.

Hamilton acknowledged that the infrastructure at the proposed relocation sites will not be completed before the November 30 deadline. However, she noted that the relocation grants are intended to assist residents with the transition.

In his remarks, Gager welcomed the proposed development and pledged the full support of the Trelawny Municipal Corporation.

He also encouraged residents to cooperate with the relocation process, noting that while leaving their community may be difficult, the proposed development presents an opportunity for resettlement.

- JIS News

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