Prime Minister Andrew Holness has announced the government’s intention to create a new urban space for Hanover, to drive the development of the parish.

Speaking at an ecumenical worship service held in Lucea on Sunday, to kick-start celebrations for Hanover’s 300th year as a parish, Mr Holness said the need to build a new town has become necessary.

He noted that the town’s facilities are struggling to keep pace with its growth.

The prime minister proposed creating the new town away from the waterfront, while maintaining existing buildings as heritage sites for tourism and other economic activities.

The prime minister added that the time has come for the government to take a deliberate and instrumental role in reshaping urban spaces to better serve citizens.

He said the initial groundwork has commenced.