Kingston, Jamaica, October 2, 2026: The Urban Development Corporation (UDC) has taken note of the interim order of the St Ann’s Bay Parish Court concerning public access to Little Dunn’s River in Ocho Rios, St Ann.
The Corporation respects the authority of the Court and will comply with the order. Accordingly, the relevant team has been directed to take the necessary steps to facilitate access to the property in keeping with the terms of the Court’s ruling.
The Corporation wishes to make clear, however, that facilitating access to the property is distinct from the formal operation and management of Little Dunn’s River as a recreational facility seven days per week.
The prior operational arrangements were developed having regard to several considerations, including public safety, security, sanitation, maintenance, lifeguard services and other infrastructure and management requirements necessary for the responsible operation of the property.
These considerations are particularly important given the Corporation’s responsibility as owner and manager of the property and the attendant issues of public safety and liability.
The interim order provides for public access to the property for seven days a week, which will be done, however, the Corporation is not at this time in a position to provide day-to-day management, including arrangements for security, lifeguard services, sanitation, maintenance or other amenities ordinarily required for the managed operation of a recreational facility.
The UDC has instructed its attorneys to pursue the appropriate legal avenues available to the Corporation in relation to the interim ruling, while continuing to comply fully with the order unless and until otherwise directed by the Court.
The UDC recognizes the importance of Little Dunn’s River to residents of St Ann and to Jamaicans more broadly and remains committed to establishing an appropriate framework for its safe, orderly and sustainable use.
The UDC also reiterates that it does not charge members of the public an entry fee to access Little Dunn’s River. Any collection of entry fees by unauthorized persons is not sanctioned by the Corporation. The UDC remains committed to acting responsibly, respecting the judicial process and balancing public access with its obligation to ensure that properties under its management are operated in a safe, orderly and sustainable manner.
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Corporate Relations and Marketing Department
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