WESTERN BUREAU:
PRIME MINISTER P.J. Patterson has acknowledged the state of under-development in Montego Bay and expressed optimism that it will be restored under the Urban Development Tax Incentive Programme (TIP) for urban renewal. Speaking at the launch of TIP in Montego Bay yesterday, Mr. Patterson acknowledged the deterioration of the resort town. "What were prime areas are now neglected and blighted areas," he said.
The Government, has been making a tremendous effort through projects such as, the North Gully, North Coast Highway, and Airport Development, however, there was still a lot to be done, he conceded.
The TIP is a government initiative to encourage and facilitate development in urban areas described as blighted. Under this programme the Government gives tax relief to individuals and companies undertaking capital investments in areas declared Special Development Areas (SDA's).
The areas targeted in Montego Bay include Sam Sharpe Square, Canterbury, Jarrett Park, Railway gardens, Orange Street, and areas surrounding the Charles Garden Market and Richmond Hill.
The programme was launched in Kingston in 1995 with incentives such as tax-free Urban Renewal Bonds, 25 per cent tax credit on investment and tax relief on Rental Income.
Meanwhile the Prime Minister has called on the business sector to put their money where their mouths are and assist with the restoration of the blighted areas.
"The Government has a contribution to make to all of this. We are not seeking to shirk it, but the Government alone cannot do it," the Prime Minister said.
He pleaded with the private sector to get involved for their own survival. He added that unless Montego Bay is subjected to a major facelift then the claim to city status will simply be theoretical.
Mr. Patterson said the TIP was a major effort to create the stimulus for the private sector to be part of the drive to foster urban renewal and growth. "If with programme you can not have real development then I must say, God help us."
Montegonians have welcomed the TIP with Mayor of Montego Bay, Councillor Hugh Solomon, describing it as a great opportunity for urban renewal.
Chairman of the Greater Montego Bay Redevelopment Co. GMRC, Mr. Noel Sloley said for growth to continue in the city, there needed to be positive initiative to attract investment.
