Government’s Investment in New JCF Divisional Headquarters to Strengthen Security and Development in Spanish Town
Prime Minister Dr. the Most Honourable Andrew Holness says the construction of the new St. Catherine North Police Divisional Headquarters represents a major investment in the security and development of Spanish Town, signaling the Government’s firm commitment to reclaiming the old capital from criminal elements and restoring it as a thriving centre of growth and opportunity.
Speaking on Wednesday (October 8) during a tour of the construction site, Prime Minister Holness said the $2.3 billion project demonstrates the State’s resolve to restore order and stability in Spanish Town while laying the foundation for sustained economic and social renewal.
“This investment is a clear signal that the Government of Jamaica is taking back Spanish Town. By placing a state-of-the-art, well-designed divisional headquarters in Spanish Town, we are staking the Government’s claim against the gangs and criminal enterprises that have for too long operated in this space. This facility is a statement of confidence and commitment to the people,” the Prime Minister said.
The new Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) Divisional Headquarters will house nearly 300 personnel and serve as the operational and administrative command centre for policing across the St. Catherine North Police Division. Designed to strengthen the JCF’s capacity to combat organized crime, the facility will also support stronger community engagement and public service delivery.
Prime Minister Holness noted that the Government’s capital investments in security infrastructure form a critical part of its national development strategy, as safety and stability are essential to driving investment, business confidence, and community growth.
“You cannot have development without security,” the Prime Minister emphasized. “When the State asserts control and creates a safe environment, investors gain confidence, communities grow, and new opportunities emerge. That is what this project represents: the beginning of a new era of safety and renewal for Spanish Town.”
Dr. Holness shared his vision of Spanish Town’s potential, describing it as a place full of energy that must now be properly directed toward progress.
“Spanish Town, the old capital, has a particular kind of energy in commerce, entertainment, housing, and transportation. But that energy must be properly harnessed; otherwise, it could hamper its own effectiveness and success.”
Dr. Holness pointed out that congestion, informal activity, and the presence of criminal networks have constrained the town’s development for years, but the Government’s coordinated investments are designed to reverse that trend.
“We cannot have development with gangs operating in the area. Once this station is finished and operational, and the police who occupy it are properly missioned, the ultimate objective is to make sure that development can flow into Spanish Town,” Dr. Holness said.
He also noted that Spanish Town is currently benefiting from multiple multi-billion-dollar projects, including the expansion of the Spanish Town Hospital, which will improve health services and contribute to the overall upliftment of the area.
“In this area, we have two major projects ongoing: the construction of a new wing at the Spanish Town Hospital and the new police headquarters. Both are multi-billion-dollar projects that, when complete, will have an impact on the quality of life of the people in Spanish Town.”
Dr. Holness reaffirmed that these investments form part of a broader, deliberate plan by the Government to synchronize infrastructure, health, and security to achieve long-term growth.