Andrew Holness Announces Historic Restoration Projects for St. Thomas

St. Thomas, Jamaica — Prime Minister Andrew Holness has unveiled a transformative plan to preserve and celebrate the rich heritage of St. Thomas while spearheading infrastructural development in the parish. Through a series of posts on social media, Holness emphasized the government’s commitment to safeguarding the historical and cultural significance of the area by investing in key restoration projects alongside new developments.

The Prime Minister highlighted the historical depth of St. Thomas, describing it as a treasure trove of stories reflected in monuments, sites of war, and the iconic courthouse, which was tragically destroyed by fire.

“Our vision goes beyond Morant Bay,” Holness stated, referencing the construction of the modern Morant Bay Urban Centre. “We are bringing our history to life by creating museums and attractions that celebrate our heritage, helping Jamaicans, especially young people, connect with our identity.”

St. Thomas is truly a treasure, rich with historical and heritage sites. This area tells a profound story—from monuments that honor our heroes to sites of war, and the old courthouse that was sadly destroyed by fire.

We are not letting these stories fade.

As we build the new… pic.twitter.com/4J1CMDdH3n

— Andrew Holness (@AndrewHolnessJM) November 12, 2024

Among the plans revealed is the establishment of a new museum in the parish, which aims to showcase the unique history of the region. Additionally, the old courthouse, a significant symbol of the town’s legacy, is set to be restored. Holness underscored that this initiative will not only honor the parish’s past but also contribute to the growth of cultural tourism.

The government’s efforts to blend heritage preservation with contemporary development signal a broader strategy to invest in Jamaica’s cultural assets. With the new Urban Centre expected to boost the local economy, the simultaneous restoration of historical landmarks demonstrates a balanced approach to growth and preservation.

This initiative aligns with the government’s ongoing commitment to fostering a deeper connection among Jamaicans to their heritage, ensuring that the stories of the nation’s past remain accessible and inspiring for generations to come.

The restoration projects are part of a wider vision to enhance cultural infrastructure across the island, with plans for similar investments in other parishes. Holness’s announcement has been met with enthusiasm, particularly from historians and cultural advocates, who see the move as an essential step in preserving Jamaica’s rich history.