A local lobby group has expressed concern about what it believes is denial of access yet again to the Belmont Cove property, commonly called Little Dunns River, in Ocho Rios, St. Ann.

The Jamaica Beach Birthright Environmental Movement (JABBEM) claimed that the Urban Development Corporation (UDC) fenced off and re-closed the attraction, effective today.

This claim has been refuted by the government.

The comments come in the wake of recent reports that the facility, which should be operational on Sundays only, was being operated every day allegedly by extortionists who charged an entry fee. 

In a statement, President of JABBEM Dr. Devon Taylor described the actions of the UDC as a beach rights betrayal.

In referencing its legal challenge on the beach access rights issue, Dr Taylor said the betrayal is based on ongoing advanced discussions in the court, prior to the 2025 general election, as to when the attraction is open to the public and the apparent about-turn now taken by the UDC.

Dr. Taylor called on the government to allow for the property to remain accessible on weekends, even as the court matter is ongoing.

He stressed that beach access must be an inherent right of the Jamaican people and not subject to government discretion.

He reiterated the call for the government to repeal and replace the 1956 beach control act.