WEST OFFICE:
Hoteliers, guests and locals in Westmoreland, Negril have expressed shock on the theft of three photo voltaic lights positioned to light up the surroundings on a controversial $12 million signal put in in Negril 4 months in the past.
Reportedly value greater than $100,000 every, the lights have been stolen over the weekend.
Joseph Smith, managing director of the Tensing Pen Lodge within the West Finish, mentioned the scenario was regrettable.
“The Negril signal took a lifetime of its personal,” he mentioned, including that he was impressed as he watched the professionals construct the landmark final 12 months. “I used to be actually impressed. My criticism has all the time been that somewhat bit extra must be spent on lighting, however these photo voltaic lights over there have been efficient sufficient so now it is actually, actually disappointing to listen to somebody dare steal these lights.”
Smith urged police to research what he believes might change into a development, as a sequence of streetlights positioned in the identical space by the Westmoreland Municipal Company have been additionally stolen shortly after they have been put in.
Richard Wallace, common supervisor of the Boardwalk Village Lodge, additionally expressed his disappointment that vandals hinder progress whereas efforts are being made to strengthen the tourism product.
“I used to be advised there was somebody driving an open-top truck to steal the lights. Which means there is not anybody who’s hungry or has to do it as a result of you probably have entry to a bucket truck to do it, meaning you are not hungry. And that makes the scenario worse. That positively makes it worse. it means you are attempting to destroy one thing good,” mentioned Wallace.
Noting that the venture is funded by taxpayers, he famous that the signal promotes Negril and Jamaica basically.
On Wednesday, a newlywed couple additionally expressed concern once they stopped by the world to take photos.
Ms Stewart mentioned that whereas it was a really completely happy second for them to listen to in regards to the vandalism, they have been somewhat depressed.
The signal was unveiled by Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett in September 2022 and sparked debate over the $12 million value of the venture.
It has since change into a landmark and continues for use each day for picture and video shoots.
hopeton.bucknor@gleanerjm.com
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