The Opposition People’s National Party, PNP has raised concerns about the alleged unregulated development and destruction of mangroves at Fort Rocky in Port Royal.

Several issues, including the demolition of structures, clearing of mangrove-covered lands, and an unregulated layout, have reportedly been identified at the site.

In a statement today, Spokesperson on Environment and Ecological Heritage, Senator Sophia Frazer Binns, said the activities which were reportedly carried out at Fort Rocky are particularly disturbing, because agents of a government ministry and the Jamaica National Heritage Trust were involved.

She said the destruction of mangroves and haphazard development in such a historically and environmentally sensitive area is unacceptable, as mangroves play a critical role in protecting Jamaica’s coastline, reducing erosion, and supporting marine biodiversity. 

She said their removal weakens the country’s resilience to climate change and threatens fragile ecosystems.

Senator Frazer Binns said without proper planning and consultation, development can cause irreversible harm, undermining both environmental sustainability and long-term economic benefits.

She is calling for greater synergy among government ministries and agencies.