Daily Gleaner, January 18, 1981

FERN GULLY TO BE A NATIONAL PARK

Fern Gully, in Ocho Rios, North-East St. Ann, is to be made a national park by the Government, at

a cost of $1.9 million. 


Included in the project is a by-pass road from Breadnut Hill. This will provide for the blocking off

of vehicular traffic through Fern Gully at a certain point. But the detour would be arranged in such

a close proximity to the scenic spot that visitors using vehicles would encounter no problem walking

to the park from their transport.


The project was one of several announced by M.P. for North Eastern St. Ann, Mr. Marsh at a

special meeting called in Ocho Rios, Silver, Seas Hotel of a wide cross-section of community

leaders on Thursday January 15.


Attending were some 80 representatives of civic, tourism, Government and commercial interest.


Purpose of the meeting was to discuss "the total development of St. Ann," with particular

emphasis on the northeast resort coastline and the total involvement of each community and

private sector with the drive, after the Government has provided, the necessary infrastructure,

such as roads, water, housing (for low income earners), educational, health and recreational

facilities.


Special speakers at the meeting were the director of the Urban Development Corporation (UDC) Mrs. Gloria Knight; the chairman of the Tourist Board, Mr. John Issa; and the chairman-designate for St. Ann Development CommitteeMr Arthur Ziadie.