Council halts work on new Port Antonio courthouse
May 15, 2006
PORT ANTONIO, Portland - The Portland Parish Council late last Wednesday afternoon issued a stop order on the construction of the new Port Antonio Courthouse at Boundbrook, saying that the permit for construction of the piles had expired.
The notice, which was served at about 5:30 pm, was addressed to the National Commercial Bank's head office and read in part: "In contravention of planning permission granted on 2006 February 8 you are hereby required to immediately cease all developmental activities relating to the construction of an institutional structure (Port Antonio Courthouse) by driving of piles at lands part of Lot 138 Boundbrook, Port Antonio, Portland".
The Observer learnt that the developers had applied for the driving of piles and a temporary permit was granted. However, a further permit should have been requested from the council but that was not done.
A total of 76 piles are to be driven. At the time the stop order was enforced, 43 were done.
After the council's offices were closed Wednesday afternoon, a letter seeking permission to continue the work was delivered. "The matter will be dealt with speedily so that construction can continue, as we are for development, but persons must abide by the laws and regulations," an officer of the council, who asked not to be named, said. "We are paid to do our duty, and whether large or small, all need to comply."
Author: Everard Owen
Source: Jamaica Observer
