The future of development along Port Henderson Road in St. Catherine South Eastern, Jamaica, is set for a significant redirection. Dr. Alfred Dawes, the newly elected Member of Parliament for the constituency, has announced a decisive move away from a previously proposed ‘Las Vegas-style’ entertainment hub, opting instead to prioritize the enhancement of local fishing villages and the development of recreational spaces. This shift signals a commitment to a vision centered on community upliftment and the burgeoning ‘blue economy’.
A New Vision for Port Henderson Road
Dr. Dawes has publicly stated his intention not to pursue the ambitious plans previously championed by former MP Robert Miller, which aimed to transform the Port Henderson Road strip, often referred to as the ‘Back Road’, into Jamaica’s answer to Las Vegas. Miller’s vision included features like brick streets, an art walk, vibrant nightlife, and even a ferry service to boost tourism. However, Dr. Dawes believes this direction is not aligned with the preferences and needs of his constituents. Instead, his focus will be on developing and expanding the existing fishing villages along the road, coupled with initiatives to upgrade and increase recreational facilities. He suggested that the local community, which has a strong Christian presence, would prefer his approach over a large-scale entertainment resort city.
Engaging the Community and Enhancing Infrastructure
A cornerstone of Dr. Dawes’s strategy involves direct engagement with the National Housing Trust (NHT) to secure resources for community development. Plans include essential infrastructure improvements such as road paving, and enhancements to water and sewage systems in the informal communities situated along the Port Henderson Road stretch. The aim is to provide a better quality of life and improved amenities for residents, fostering a more sustainable environment for local livelihoods. Dawes emphasized a focus on enhancing the fishing villages with adequate infrastructure, including better roads and water access, to improve the experience for both vendors and buyers, thereby promoting safety and well-being.
Embracing the ‘Blue Economy’
Dr. Dawes sees significant business opportunities for Port Henderson Road stemming from Jamaica’s ‘blue economy’. This approach emphasizes the sustainable use of ocean and coastal resources for economic growth and improved livelihoods. His vision includes leveraging the area for cross-harbour tourism support to nearby Port Royal, empowering local fisherfolk, and developing restaurants to create a distinct dining experience. This focus on the ‘blue economy’ aligns with broader national strategies aimed at harnessing marine resources for economic prosperity while ensuring environmental sustainability. The development of the fishing villages and associated culinary experiences would contribute to this economic model.
Shifting Away from Past Proposals
Former MP Robert Miller had envisioned Port Henderson Road as a major tourist destination and entertainment hub, aiming to integrate existing businesses and professions along the strip into a vibrant nightlife scene. His plans were detailed, including features designed to attract visitors and stimulate economic activity. However, following his electoral defeat in the 2025 General Election, the focus has shifted to Dr. Dawes’s community-centric and resource-based development agenda. Dawes believes that his constituents would find greater value in developments that promote local economic drivers and enhance community well-being rather than a high-intensity entertainment district.
Implications for Portmore and Beyond
This redirection of development plans for Port Henderson Road has broader implications for the Portmore municipality and the wider St. Catherine South Eastern constituency. By prioritizing fishing villages, recreation, and the blue economy, Dr. Dawes aims to foster a more inclusive and sustainable form of development. This approach seeks to balance economic opportunities with the preservation of the local environment and community character. The investment in infrastructure and community upliftment by the National Housing Trust, alongside the strategic focus on marine resources, signals a new chapter for Port Henderson Road, one that emphasizes local benefit and sustainable growth over a replication of international entertainment models. The news of this shift provides important community development insights for Jamaica.