St Catherine municipality introduces one-month amnesty for unapproved construction

The St Catherine Municipal Corporation has introduced a one-month amnesty for residents who have undertaken, or are in the process of undertaking, construction work without the requisite permits and approvals.

The initiative started today and was announced by corporation chairman and Mayor of Spanish Town, Norman Scott, at Thursday’s monthly meeting of the municipal body.

Scott said the amnesty covers unapproved constructions over the past 10 years and will allow persons to receive a waiver of penalties and interest on penalties, among other benefits.

"This amnesty is for persons who have taken chances to build without proper guidance from the technical department of the St Catherine Municipal Corporation. Those affected need to take advantage of this opportunity, as no penalties will be added," Scott said.

The chairman added that at the end of the amnesty, authorities will undertake an enforcement drive, noting that a number of persons continue to construct buildings without approval.

He said offenders will be taken to court, where they will face fines.

- Rasbert Turner

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