A landmark $7 million investment in sports facilities across North-East St. Ann was unveiled on Thursday as part of the North-East St. Ann Sports Development Programme. The announcement, made by Member of Parliament Mathew Samuda at Drax Hall, is aimed at improving sporting infrastructure throughout the region and bringing long-term benefits to local athletes and the wider community.

The largest portion of the investment, totalling $4 million, will be directed towards upgrading the Seville Playfield and Court. The renovation will include the relaying of the field, resurfacing the court, and installing energy-efficient solar lights.

In addition to the Seville Playfield improvements, the programme also includes substantial upgrades for other key sports facilities across the region. At Chalky Hill Cricket Field, $1.5 million will be invested to enhance the field with solar lights and nets. Meanwhile, in Ocho Rios, $1.5 million will be allocated to the Buckfield facility, where the development plan includes relaying the grass, fertilizing the area, installing a small irrigation system, and adding solar lights to further modernize the venue.

The programme also has a strong focus on supporting sports development in local schools. As part of the initiative, four local schools — Steer Town Academy, Ocho Rios High, Marcus Garvey High, and Exchange All Age — will receive $250,000 each to help enhance their sports programs.

Additionally, ten primary schools in the region will each receive $50,000 to assist with their sports days and general sports initiatives, ensuring that students at all levels have access to top-tier sporting opportunities.

In a further push to enhance sports in the region, the Member of Parliament also introduced the North-East St. Ann Super Football Corner League, a $500,000 netball competition, and a T10 cricket competition.