UDC says it will comply with court order allowing public access to little Dunn’s River

October 2, 2026

The Urban Development Corporation (UDC) says it will comply with a court order allowing public access to Little Dunn’s River in Ocho Rios, St. Ann, seven days a week.

It also warned that it is not currently in a position to provide day-to-day management of the property.

The statement comes in the wake of a court action by lobby group, Jamaica Beach Birthright Environmental Movement (JABBEM), and an injunction granted by the St. Ann Parish Court.

The injunction order takes immediate effect securing the public’s unrestricted access to the beach, river, waterfalls and the sea.

In a release, the UDC explained that it cannot at this time provide arrangements for security, lifeguard services, sanitation, maintenance or other amenities ordinarily required for the managed operation of a recreational facility.

The UDC says its team has been directed to take the necessary steps to facilitate access to the property in keeping with the terms of the court’s ruling.

However, facilitating access is distinct from the formal operation and management of the property as a recreational facility seven days per week.

According to the Corporation, the previous operational arrangements were developed with consideration for public safety, security, sanitation, maintenance, lifeguard services and other infrastructure and management requirements.

The UDC says those considerations are particularly important given its responsibility as owner and manager of the property and the attendant issues of public safety and liability.

The Corporation says it has also instructed its attorneys to pursue the appropriate legal avenues available to it in relation to the interim ruling, while continuing to comply fully with the order, unless and until otherwise directed by the court.

The UDC says it recognizes the importance of Little Dunn’s River to residents of St. Ann and Jamaicans more broadly and remains committed to establishing an appropriate framework for its safe, orderly and sustainable use.

The Corporation also reiterates that it does not charge members of the public an entry fee to access Little Dunn’s River.

It says any collection of entry fees by unauthorized persons is not sanctioned by the UDC.

The Corporation says it will continue to act responsibly, respect the judicial process and balance public access with its obligation to ensure that properties under its management are operated in a safe, orderly and sustainable manner.