...on the Luana development.

Old habits are hard to break.

An economically sustainable development is not necessarily ecologically sustainable.

Hopefully this 3,000 acres will be a showpeice demonstrating that we understand the appropriate ways of approaching soil, air and human need.

Where will the effluents and so called garbage go? Will harmful chemicals be used?

Will the banks, accountants and politicians be in control?

What is the Luana Development? Can you provide some background info or a go to source for info.

Here's a link to an Observer news account:
http://www.jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20080221/business/business2.html

published: Thursday | February 21, 2008

Janet Silvera, Senior Tourism Writer


WESTERN BUREAU:

Government has freed up more than 3,000 acres of land in Luana, St Elizabeth, for a major resort development, Prime Minister Bruce Golding told delegates at Jamaica's first annual Tourism Outlook seminar yesterday.

Addressing the more than 300 hospitality stakeholders at the inaugural event at the Hilton Kingston hotel in New Kingston, Golding said the lands became available on Monday after Cabinet decided not to renew the contract of an oil exploration team that had been working the property for the last three years.

"We feel we need to pay more attention to the south coast as we seek to diversify all elements of the tourism sector," the prime minister said.

According to Golding, the Government was looking to explore various segments of the market on the coast, known for its unspoiled beauty and low density development, including eco and heritage tourism.
Mixed-use development


In fact, the south coast has assumed the title 'Home of Community Tourism', and has been promoted as such over the years.

Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett indicated that the 3,000-acre property would be proposed for mixed-use development, involving accommo-dation, marinas and an aerodrome.

Stating that this development was seminal to the opening up of the area, he said, "it will complement the other tourism entities, such as Sandals Whitehouse and Treasure Beach".

Welcoming the announcement, Diana McIntyre-Pike, of Country-style Community Tourism Network, suggested any major resort development in the area should be referred to both the South Coast Development study, which was funded by the International Development Bank and the Tourism Master Plan, and every effort should be made to get the community involved in any decision making.

"We don't want 2,000-room developments, as this will spoil the area and we want to go upscale," McIntyre-Pike said

Wow, this sounds really distressing. 3,000 acres just 'magically' made available for a 'major resort development'? And this new development is supposed to complement Sandals and Treasure Beach? Excuse me, Minister, but Sandals and Treasure Beach don't complement each other, so what's this new development going to be? Why the need to 'open up the area' that Minister Bartlett mentions? Does the south coast really need opening up?

Where exactly is this land? What's it near?

The best I could do with a quick Google search was "Luana, St Elizabeth...30 mins to Jake's"

Eric Luana is below Bromton .Its Black River-Bromton then Luana.I think its the property that has the white and blue fence,this property runs on both side of the road.

Turey: have you ever considered organizing? For inspiration, you might read Barack Obama's DREAMS FROM MY FATHER, in which Obama tells of his days doggedly organizing for the poor and disenfranchised in the slums of Chicago.

NO to Luanas, NO to sports stadiums, NO to street signs in TB. People of TB must surely know that repeat visitors to TB return, in large part, precisely because there are no Luanas (the Whitehouse Sandals is close enough), no sports stadiums, no frivolities like suburban-urban street signs.

The people of TB might consider organizing instead of waiting to see what happens, and then they can only react. Power to the People! :-D

Note: there is a Curious (not me) who posts on this board, and there is curious (me).

Luana/Luana Point is right next to Font Hill Wildlife Sanctuary btw.Black River and Whitehouse. A new airport has long been planned/rumored for the area (Sandals' Whitehouse
guests would use it) and both Beaches and RIU
have been sniffing round the area from Bluefields Beach to Black River for some time.

Luana is where the Black River by-pass and the road to Black River split on the east end just north of the Ashton Great House.

I am for this type of development- St. Elizabeth has a lot of wasteland- we need to create employment. Call Mr. Tufton he should be informed.

It's interesting that such a development is being planned despite the fact that Sandals Whitehouse has had difficulties filling up the place. My sister and her husband stayed there shortly after it opened and she said it was empty, they had the place almost to themselves. I was listening to Power 106 earlier this week and there was a discussion regarding a recent financial report about Sandals Whitehouse. Oh, I wish politicans would see that Jamaica's tourism industry is suffering oversaturation. They are building more and more large scale hotels with the idea, build it and they will come. The reality is that they are not coming. Economies are struggling world-wide, increase fuel cost which has translated into increased air travel cost, etc has resulted in decreased tourism. A monster eco-tourist hotel is unlikely to attract the green market they will target. That market is likely turned off by such facilities that has high carbon footprints and are very unnatural. Community tourism flourishes in TB due to the authentic and naturalness of the geographic area and the people. So what are the sentiments of the people in St. Bess and particularly Luana about this project?

@ curious

so who is "Just curious" then ? a third person ?

Jason Henzell of Jake's and a member of the Jamaican Tourist Board mentioned the fact that
a new airport and new development was scheduled
in this area when quoted in The Observer 2 years ago.

From what I understand, the word 'developement' in this case does not necessarily mean large all inclusive resorts. What the government is saying, is that the land is going to be taken out of the hands of the Petroleum Corporation and open it up for 'developement' in terms of eco-tourism and other such resorts along the lines of what T'beach has achieved. There is a different goal for the South Coast than that of the North COast. I don't think this is something anyone should be frightened of. This prime minister is very enlightened regarding the benefits of low impact tourism but still trying to balance it by bringing jobs and money to the area. I notice that those that are most against it are 'visitors' to Jamaica that don't want to see change. Change is important...as long as it's well thought out and planned.

So far curious I've put my 2 cents where it may count.

For me, organising by example/action has been an effective way of demonstrating what is possible.

To experience an animal food free diet I adopted a near vegan diet 35 years ago. My health and vitality demonstrate that 'rabbit food gwine weaken yu' is untrue, for me at least.

My carbon footprint is also lessened by consuming directly from the fuits of the soil and not via the wasteful and cruel feedlot cycle.

When my vision of creating an energy and water independent living space surrounded by plants grown organically for food and sale manifests, I'll send details.

Luana could be an example of sustainable development to the max if those that cared insisted on this.

Alice explained the current trend that is happening with tourism. When will we listen to our visitors!?

I have never seen the wasteland you refer to Canada. I've seen wasted land. Soil exhausted by monoculture and shortsighted practices and land cleared of green, paved and cemented over.

Development? For sure!

Thing is, are we ready to examine how we go about it and the long term effects of breaking the soil, covering it and removing/replacing indigenous and endemic species.

In the Know, I hope you are correct in that the plan for the South Coast is different. I also hope that the residents of the South Coast will be very actively involved with this project in ensuring that it is not an empty promise and Trojan Horse. Whitehouse is on the South Coast(if I'm incorresct, I stand corrected)and Sandals Whitehouse is large scale, the largest Sandals property in their porfolio. Corporations are quick to dangle the promise of jobs to get public support for projects of all sorts but they don't usually inform the public about all the governmental benefits( tax abatements, public funding and more) that they receive which takes away from the resources available for the public. Jamaicans are migrating due to lack of jobs and economic opportunities if tourism is the sole answer, Jamaicans wouldn't need to migrate considering the number of large scale hotel developments. Also the over valuation of land to benefit the developers(Whitehouse's land was valued at 6million, then it was overvalued to 10millionUSD to benefit the development). The inflation of property value can also result in the local population being priced out of the housing market. In the know, what is the plan to attract tourism to this development when tourism is down island-wide? 3000 acres is a lot of land so I doubt that it will be a small low impact project although I would be happy to be wrong. I am aware that the Honorable Mr. Golding is an intelligent leader but according to another posting about statements made to the Observer previously, it seems that this project may have been planned prior to his leadership. I wonder if there aren't other sustainable industries that 3000acres could facilitate that would also provide long term employment. Jamaica can not only exist and plan for her economic future based on tourism alone. As I understand it, Jamaica is the only Carribean island equipped to support call centers for corporate customer service, such as the ones that are driving India's economy. The government with private sector should be looking to further explore the technology sector. Additionally, the sea fishing industry is in trouble, maybe some attention could be paid to developing an export market of farm raised fish which is in keeping with South Coast history, culture and way of life. Jamaica also needs to enact a plan to attract retirees as full time residents much in the way Brazil is for Northern Europeans. Iam a visitor to the South Coast but I am Jamaican and want the best for my country and people. Just my few cents!

Oh, since this is a project for the tourism market ,it seems that feedback from tourist is informative and valuable for those who are doing the planning. Corporations spend millions of dollars to do MARKET RESEARCH including FOCUS GROUP, POLLING and DEMOGRAPHIC STUDIES so that they don't blunder and waste investments that won't materialize with high returns. It seems that the idea for Luana may be fueled by the success of TB's Community Tourism Model so it is important to understand why the 'TOURIST' goes to TB. Visitors have valuable info,since they are half of this equation.

i would hate to see any large scale development in luana , i hope its just upscale housing and small villas and eco tourism and things like these, we don't need any more large hotels on the south coast, i hate traffic and congestion and pollution and we don't need an air port in luana,

Keep TB as it is now - that's why we visit your beautiful land!

Hooked on TB ...GREAT INPUT...Do hope you think of residing in TB.

Feedback rules.

Long live the evolution!

As one who finds the trips from Mo-Bay and Kingston sometimes tiring, I welcome the reports of an airport at Luana.

For those concerned with carbon footprints, think of the amount of fuel saved by thousands of travelers not having to drive these long distances( often round trip for each leg). Also if we truly care about the welfare of the less affluent, consider that they will save money by virtue of having to pay for much shorter commute.

Of course, the devil is always in the details, so lets wait and see before dissing the idea.

Those of us who love TB are concerned for the beauty, the quality of life, and the needs and habitats of those who live there every day. Some of have seen the damage that can result from a lack of respect for nature. We hope that those in charge can be good stewarts of this beautiful land and show wisdom in their actions.Be strong, and see you in March. We will be interested in hearing what you all have to say. Jeanie and Tom

Yes one man, hopefully the devil does not write the details.

It's possible that concern should now be for both the affluent and the financially challenged in the bigger picture. We all live on the same planet and will be all affected.

Not sure a plane ride from Mobay or Kingston will be as affordable as a road trip, more comfy maybe. If thousands did take the flights fuel may be saved. What happened to the trains?

It is also possible that if this climate change thing is real and not a sinister plot, the longer we wait to act the more it becomes possible that changes will be forced on us.

A project like Luana is a drop in the global bucket and I'm sure the primary focus is on revenue to pay off our national debt and to keep shareholders happy. Debt has to be paid and investors rewarded. Now, the accountants and planners should sit with biologists, techno visionaries, artists etc.

This development alone, if done ecologically sustainably, may only help in a small way. Importantly this and every development big or small has the opportunity of being a pattern that can inspire other like developments.

Please note - There is the community of Luana, just south of Brompton and there is Luana Point, which is adjacent to the PCJ Font Hill property. Just to make sure everyone is on the same page, this development is planned for the latter. PCJ also has a tourism development plan for the west end of the property that is quite extensive. After the nightmare of the Sandals development and all their problems (don't ask) I hope the proper people are paying attention to all this - and by that I mena the community. Everything is for sale in JA., unfortunately, and that includes NEPA and other authorities. After seeing how the Sandals people have screwed their staff on the wages issue, I think people should be very careful before using that "It's the Jobs" argument.

Proceed with caution, maybe you could elaborate on "the nightmare of the Sandals development" for those of us who aren't in the know. You said we shouldn't ask, but how can I hold back when this seems to be so connected to this thread?

Thanks to all the visitors who have taken the time to give opinions.

The tourism sector (really all Jamaicans) has the responsibility to guide preparation and maintainance of accomodations and recreational facilities to be acceptable, affordable and attractive to visitors. Also encourage B&B's and other venues used by locals.

This forum can be a place to give this sector thoughts from visitors.

I encourage postings from those who have experienced a stay in TB or any part of Jamaica.
I'm sure your views will be heard and your thoughts help guide the direction of future development.

Remember Tourist Board, the bruk and barefoot hippies that came for Itality and Vitality are now well shod, have two shilling and still want Itality and Vitality.

JUST BUILD AN AIR STRIP.THE TRIP FROM MOBAY OR KINGSTON TO THE SOUTH COAST IS UN-BELIEVABLE LONG - TIRESOME HOT AND THE POT HOLES MAKE THE RIDE VERY UN-COMFORTABLE.
IS THERE ANYONE OUT THERE THAT WILL AGREE WITH ME?

The Sandals Whitehouse project has been plagued with problems from the very beginning and they are manifest in the hotel today. Design and building flaws, lawsuits, sewage treatment problems, and all sorts of inter-agency governement feuding. Check the Gleaner website and search for "Sandals Whitehouse" and you will see why the project has come to be known as "Scandals". let's not have a repeat in TB.

To Visitor to TB - I am not one to agree with the air strip. I think the trip from MoBay to Treasure Beach is part of the whole great experience of going to TB. If you can make it during the day, you get to see more of the island and those who live there. Open the windows and feel the breeze, and relax and 'move' with the potholes. I love it and I'm not keen on listening to airplanes fly in and out when I'm on vacation. Just my 2 cents!

I am definitely not feeling the idea of a south coast air strip. I think the moment an airport is built, there will be that much more of a push to bring in more AIs, more big-box business ... and the next thing we know, all the things we love about the south coast will be lost.

I agree with One More Opinion: the ride down from MoBay is a great part of the trip. There are so many spots I like to see on the way, and if you're really tired of the ride, stop at one of the many little bar-restaurants on the road side, have a cold Red Stripe and relax a while. Release that off-island sense that everything has to move fast and be ultra convenient. Let the sweet anticipation build: seeing TB spread out below you as you turn right at the police station. I can think of few other things that are so very much worth a long, bumpy ride!

Development.

First our children. Allow them access to information, tools and kind teachers. Internet, libaries, good sports equipment and fields, quick reach to modern medicine and respect of old healing ways, soil enrichment and community wealth/health with organic farms and urban forests in school area maintained by students and teachers, design of sustainable communities, safe use of man made compounds, maintainance of photovoltaic, wind generators, solar heaters and solar ovens, water catchment storage and treatment, experiments in building methods that incorporate the above and are carbon negative (plants galore giving oxygen and food), electric and hydrogen vehicles, regular interschool science and art events.

For all of us; as much of the above we can absorb and utilise and as much as we can each contribute in encouragement, time or cash.

I just remembered our botanical gardens in the 50's and have seen photos of downtown parks that were small heavens of streams, trees and smaller plants, all schools should have such surroundings.

I would appreciate all ideas of why this CANNOT be done!

It's funny that those that don't want change are in fact are those that are most responsible for the changes that have already taken place. Visitors to any country affect that country for better or for worse.

Turey this is my opinion all talk and no action???

Some action lots of talk Ca2!

To all Jamaicans reading these comments."Big Up" Jamaicans as I Know us we are a very resourceful people"Out of many one".All big scale tourist accomodations only benefits a selected few"The chosen."Local people benefits more from tourist renting Guest Houses,so come on jamaicans,"Wise up".use your lands to benefit you and your families[Advice]Maybe as families and friends you can all come togeather and build a "Little Cottage"[In nigril]use it as a buisness to better you and your families "Dollars" and qualities of life.Watch this space for more advice my Compatriot.

JA abroad, great point!!!!!!!!

Bringing jobs and money to an area is one approach. This is one reason given for supporting large developments.

Encouraging small scale accomodations, design of recreational facilities like walking trails and birdwatching and organic farms serving visitors and locals approaches economic and ecological sustainability.

Have our accountants yet factored in air and sea pollution, loss of habitat for fauna, the cultural neutrality of big developments and the concentration of economic wealth to a small sector?

How about potentiating the opportunity for us to make our own money and encouraging the restoration of Jamaica to the haven it could be.

I remember reading an in house publication at my accountants (multinationals) 20 years ago. The ideas of valuing air quality, habitat enrichment and cultural exchanges were discussed. What happened Old Boys? are established proceedures that difficult to change?

And right on J.A.abroad.

Correction, economic wealth concentrated within a minority is not the domain of accountants.

The appropriate use of this wealth is now in the hands of those that control it.

May it be used wisely now.

Development
great Idea
Response
No negatives suggestion Turey only positive ones.To make the ideas come through,you will have to be the Intstigator, I would like to suggest you write a letter with your ideas get it signatured by as many people as you can supporting the idea, send it to the M.P for the areas you have in mind, asking for their support.Write a detailed list show costings and any voluntary support.Maybe you would like to work on carrying out the ideas one by one,personally or with the support of friends,family, and community seek support from any source multinational cooporation is a must.
Yours truly JA/Abroad

Thanks JA/Abroad.

Your and others responses have been the best of medicines; a dram of encouragement to be taken freely.

Again, I favour change through demonstration, not the blocking of roads but travelling new ones, clearing some of those we've forgotten and keeping the old ones clear and clean.

I am taking advantage of living in British Columbia to absorb some of the living/tech paths being taken.

Coming to think of it, I believe most, maybe all, of us have the desire to set thing right.

I also have a feeling that what some have expressed that Ja is 'The Promised Land' could be brought about....by us.

I also feel that wherever good heart steps foot so there can a garden bloom and the Promise of Human/Floral/Faunal/Mineral interplay begins...again, then we discover true wealth and health.

It's just that Ja pulses with vitality, good hands and good heart. What a head start.