Gov’t Proposes $20M Repair of Blue Lagoon Dock in Portland

The Government has proposed an allocation of approximately $20 million to repair the dock at the Blue Lagoon in Portland.

Speaking during the Standing Finance Committee meeting of the House of Representatives on March 6 at Gordon House, where members reviewed the 2026/27 Estimates of Expenditure, Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Hon. Olivia Grange, stated that the proposed works form part of a broader rehabilitation programme for the popular attraction, the scope of which has already been completed.

“We have the proposal, we have the design, and we will, as soon as the funds are identified, do the repairs,” she said.

The Minister noted that lifeguards are currently stationed at the lagoon; however, managing the area has proven challenging, as the lands surrounding the attraction are privately owned.

Ms. Grange explained that previous unregulated activities in the area necessitated intervention and oversight by the Jamaica National Heritage Trust (JNHT), in order to restore order and safeguard the site.

She also addressed concerns regarding the barrier along the access route, explaining that it was introduced to manage traffic flow rather than restrict entry.

“The barrier that’s there still provides access to the Blue Lagoon,” the Minister said, noting that the measure was necessary to prevent vehicles from entering an area where there is no adequate parking.

Ms. Grange indicated that the Government is planning a more comprehensive development arrangement, which would establish a designated parking area from which visitors could be transported to the lagoon by shuttle.

She emphasised that motorised water sports will not be promoted in the lagoon, citing environmental concerns as well as the sensitivity surrounding privately owned lands bordering the attraction.

“We will have to find a balance between the people having access and the people enjoying and earning from the Blue Lagoon,” the Minister said.

Meanwhile, in providing an update on entertainment zones, Ms. Grange noted that the establishment of designated zones across the island is progressing but continues to require collaboration with municipal authorities.

“It has to be a partnership… because it involves planning and… approvals,” she explained.

The Minister noted that several potential locations have already been audited and identified, with discussions under way with municipalities to transform the spaces into properly designed facilities that also incorporate sound regulation considerations.