PNP pledges 24-hour entertainment zones

People's National Party (PNP) President Mark Golding has emphasised the vital role of the creative sector in driving Jamaica's economic growth. Addressing his party's 86th annual conference on Sunday, Golding stressed that the state must support the sector to unlock its vast potential for the benefit of all Jamaicans.

He announced that, if elected, a PNP-led government would create a single authority to streamline the permitting process for entertainment events.

"We will establish 24-hour entertainment zones in suitable locations and develop balanced, clear guidelines under the Noise Abatement Act for night-time entertainment in communities," Golding stated.

The concept of entertainment zones has been championed by PNP member Damion Crawford for some time.

Recently, Governor General Sir Patrick Allen, during his Throne Speech at the Ceremonial Opening of Parliament in April, confirmed that the JamWorld Entertainment Complex in Portmore, St Catherine, is set to become Jamaica's first 24-hour entertainment zone.