New Negril Mini Stadium hailed as a facilitator of social development

Elaine Bradley and Christopher Mazlin – community members, Owen James - Councilor Caretaker of the Negril Division, Stephen Edwards - Acting Executive Director of the Tourism Product Development Company Limited (TPDCo), Honourable Edmund Bartlett – Minister of Tourism, Morland Wilson - Member of Parliament for Westmoreland Western, Dr. Carey Wallace –Executive Director of the Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF) and Gilbert Fender – Acting Chair of the Negril Destination Assurance Council participate in the ribbon cutting for the opening of the Negril Mini Stadium. The project was executed by TPDCo to the tune of 83 million dollars, which was provided by the Tourism Enhancement Fund. — Elaine Bradley and Christopher Mazlin – community members, Owen James – Councilor Caretaker of the Negril Division, Stephen Edwards – Acting Executive Director of the Tourism Product Development Company Limited (TPDCo), Honourable Edmund Bartlett – Minister of Tourism, Morland Wilson – Member of Parliament for Westmoreland Western, Dr. Carey Wallace –Executive Director of the Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF) and Gilbert Fender – Acting Chair of the Negril Destination Assurance Council participate in the ribbon cutting for the opening of the Negril Mini Stadium. The project was executed by TPDCo to the tune of 83 million dollars, which was provided by the Tourism Enhancement Fund.

The New Negril Mini Stadium is being championed as a facilitator of social, human and community development, as its amenities are envisaged to improve the skills and talents of local community members. The creation of the 83-million-dollar stadium was executed by the Tourism Product Development Company Limited (TPDCo) with funding from Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF).

Speaking at the ribbon-cutting on Friday, July 30, 2021, Minister of Tourism Honourable Edmund Bartlett underscored the importance of facilities such as these, not only for the tourism sector’s benefit but also for social enrichment, which is necessary for the build-out of the tourism industry.

“Tourism is not only a driver of economic growth but also a facilitator of growth and development of our local communities. This facility goes beyond the building and will help to build the capacity of our people and develop their strengths, talents, and athletic prowess.”

Member of Parliament for Westmoreland Western Morland Wilson was elated for his constituency to receive a facility geared at the improvement of the community. He also encouraged regular use, as well as care of the facility, which is intended to greatly benefit the residents.

“Jamaica is a country deeply invested in sporting culture; it is deeply embedded in our DNA. Our new mini-stadium will make an important contribution to Negril and will provide an opportunity for sports, teaching, and other recreational activities.”

Acting Executive Director of TPDCo Stephen Edwards was also present to share on the importance and benefits of the new mini stadium

“We (TPDCo) have realized how beneficial it can be to have a space to learn, to grow and to find oneself. In due time, many activities will be hosted here, and allow for a mingling of locals and visitors alike. All of which will benefit the communities and the entire resort town.”

The mini-stadium features a perimeter wall and gates, restrooms/changing rooms, covered stands, a parking lot, external lighting, refurbishing of an existing multipurpose court and hardscaping, realignment and rehabilitation of the football field and irrigation.