St. Ann One of the Fastest Growing Investment Hubs – State Minister

St. Ann is rapidly positioning itself as one of Jamaica’s fastest growing investment hubs, with increased activity across housing, infrastructure, commerce and large-scale private-sector developments, says State Minister in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Delano Seiveright.

Speaking at the Paradisiac Sip & See Wealth Summit, held at Paradisiac Beach Club in the parish on March 28, Mr. Seiveright noted that the sustained expansion is being driven by both local and international investors.

“St. Ann is experiencing sustained growth, driven by strong interest from local and overseas investors who recognise the parish’s strategic importance and development potential,” the State Minister said.

He highlighted that new government mechanisms, including the National Reconstruction and Resilience Authority (NaRRA), are expected to improve project execution and accelerate major development initiatives across the island.

Mr. Seiveright also pointed to significant road infrastructure upgrades that will enhance connectivity and ease congestion along the north coast. These include plans for new tolled highway corridors designed to bypass key towns such as Ocho Rios, Mammee Bay, Drax Hall, Richmond and Runaway Bay.

“These improvements will significantly enhance travel efficiency, reduce congestion and support the movement of people and goods across key economic zones,” he noted.

In addition, sections of the North Coast roadway are to be widened into modern boulevard-style corridors, aimed at improving traffic flow, safety and access to growing development areas.

Supporting infrastructure is also being strengthened, particularly in water supply. The State Minister cited the Drax Hall to Llandovery pipeline as a critical project that will boost capacity along major growth corridors.

Meanwhile, areas such as Richmond and Drax Hall are emerging as important residential and commercial centres. Developments like Paradisiac are contributing to the formation of a robust economic belt along the north coast.

Mr. Seiveright further indicated that local companies are expanding operations across sectors, including logistics, retail, commercial services and food, helping to drive job creation and broader economic activity.

Tourism-related investments also continue to play a key role, with new resort developments, hotel upgrades and mixed-use projects contributing to increased construction activity and opportunities for small businesses.

“There is also growing demand for villas, condominiums and second homes from both local purchasers and members of the diaspora, further strengthening the real estate market in the parish,” the State Minister said.

Mr. Seiveright emphasised that the combined impact of infrastructure upgrades, private-sector investment and expanding housing developments is positioning St. Ann as a critical engine of economic growth for Jamaica.