The Government will be undertaking major work to improve social infrastructure and amenities in West Kingston.

This was announced by Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation, Hon. Dr. Horace Chang, who toured sections of Tivoli Gardens and Denham Town on Friday (May 13).

Dr. Chang said the intervention, which is to get underway this year, is expected to address water, sewage and housing needs.

He said that the tour was to “evaluate the situation and take some decisions to begin the process of rehabilitation. It will not be done overnight; it won’t be done one time, but work has to begin during the course of this year.”

Dr. Chang said the Government will work to upgrade the water supply system, address waste water disposal, as well as improve the structure of buildings, some of which were built decades ago.

“The community is 50 years old. Much of the infrastructure has been outgrown by the population and are totally inadequate,” he said.

Dr. Chang noted that while the infrastructure works will begin in West Kingston, there are other communities that will benefit from similar improvements.

He noted that the Government intends to engage residents in sensitisation sessions in order to ensure that the work to be carried out is maintained.

Local Government and Community Development Minister, and Member of Parliament for West Kingston, Hon. Desmond McKenzie, who was also on the tour, welcomed the intervention.

“It is important the Government is attuned to the concerns of the communities and listen to the voices of the people,” he said.

He said providing social amenities and improving the environment in which people live are important in reducing crime.

Minister McKenzie expressed confidence that the improved conditions will bring about positive change in the attitude and outlook of residents, whom he implored to do their part to ensure that the amenities, when provided, are properly maintained.

“It has to be a partnership with the constituency and the Government to change the face of West Kingston,” he said.