Government advancing Lionel Densham Aerodrome Project in St Elizabeth

The Government, through the Airports Authority of Jamaica (AAJ), is advancing the proposed Lionel Densham Aerodrome project in St Elizabeth by completing the technical studies and securing the requisite approvals needed for the development to proceed. Minister of Energy, Transport and Telecommunications, Daryl Vaz, made the disclosure during Wednesday’s post-Cabinet press briefing at Jamaica House. Following its review of the draft proposal submitted by the AAJ, the Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ), and the Public Investment Appraisal Branch (PIAB) requested additional information, along with five technical studies: geotechnical investigations, a socioeconomic impact assessment, a rapid environmental impact assessment, a rapid climate assessment, and preliminary engineering and drainage designs. “Consultants have been engaged to conduct the studies. Three are scheduled for completion by the end of October – the geotechnical service by November 5, and the preliminary engineering and drainage designs by December 12,” Vaz reported. He further indicated that, subject to the timely submission of acceptable studies and the securing of the necessary approvals, the Government is targeting December 23, 2026, to resubmit the revised proposal, along with its formal responses, to PIAB. “The proposed project has the potential to improve air connectivity, support tourism and create economic opportunities for the parish of St Elizabeth and the surrounding communities. However, it remains at the assessment and approval stage, and the necessary requirements must be met before we can proceed to implementation,” Vaz stated. He, however, assured that the Government will continue to work through the AAJ and other relevant agencies to advance the proposal, in accordance with the requisite technical and regulatory requirements. - JIS