Hague residents protest over building of sewage plant

The private developers who are extending a sewage treatment plant in Hague, Trelawny say they are willing to meet with residents who staged a protest this morning (July 2) over the construction at the plant.

The residents of Lower Hague say they have concerns over the construction at the plant, which is part of a housing development, near their community.

The contractors for a major housing development in Hague, near Falmouth, Kemtek Development Construction, say the sewage treatment plant is to be expanded to accommodate the large number of new houses.

They say they have obtained all the necessary permits from the Parish Council and are abiding by the planning permits.

Residents are, however, saying they have complained about a foul odour and overflow of sewage into their yards.

Garwin tulloch, of Kemtek Development Construction Company, says he's willing to meet with the residents to discuss their concerns.

Mr. Tulloch adds that he will be taking the initiative to go to Chairman of the Trelawny Parish Council, Garth Wilkinson to see how best the matter can be addressed.

Mr. Tulloch expressed disappointment that no one got in touch with the company about the problems they say they are having.  

He outlines that a second sewage plant is not being built, but rather an extension of the existing plant.

Meanwhile, Chairman of the Trelawny Parish Council, Garth Wilkinson, who was on the scene of this morning's demonstration, said there was no odour coming from the sewage treatment plant.

He says the extension of the plant has been approved by all relevant authorities.

Mayor Wilkinson says this is one of several concerns, which the residents have over the construction at the plant and a meeting is being arranged between the residents and the relevant parties.  

Councillor for the Martha Brae Division, in which the Hague community falls, Philip Service, was unavailable for comment as he is off the island.