Jennings Extension squatters to be relocated

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Officials including Prime Minister Gaston Browne, Public Works Minister Maria Browne, and Minister of Urban & Social Transformation Rawdon Turner met at the site to speak with the squatters.
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The government and the residents who have been squatting in the Jennings New Extension area have reached an agreement to relocate the community to a safer area.

This follows a November 2023 directive from the Development Control Authority (DCA), which gave the squatters until April 30, 2025, to vacate the Crown lands or face demolition of their properties. At the time, the DCA warned that failing to comply could result in significant property damage and loss.

On Tuesday, Prime Minister Gaston Browne and members of his Cabinet, including Public Works Minister Maria Browne and St Mary’s North MP Sir Molwyn Joseph, visited the area to address the issue directly.

Minister Maria Browne highlighted serious safety concerns, noting that some homes were built in a flood-prone watercourse. She emphasized that the area is unsuitable for any development due to the high risk of severe flooding.

Sir Molwyn echoed these concerns, explaining that runoff from the nearby hills causes significant flooding during heavy rains. A watercourse located just 100 feet from the main road further exacerbates the problem.

Following consultations with the Ministers of Agriculture, Lands, and Urban Transformation, the government determined that relocation was the best solution to the problem. Prime Minister Browne presented the plan to the affected residents, who reportedly welcomed the decision.

Sir Molwyn has been tasked with identifying suitable lands to accommodate the 12 households that will be relocated.

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