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Shaping Our Future: Inside Clarendon’s Planning, Environment & Development Process

Building Clarendon the Right Way

From roads to housing schemes, billboards to zoning decisions – do you know who’s behind the scenes shaping the landscape of our beloved parish? Last Thursday’s Local Governance and Community Development Live Forum dived into just that – and trust us, it’s a conversation every resident should hear.

Our featured guest, Staphel Thomas, Acting Director of Planning at the Clarendon Municipal Corporation, broke it all down. Whether you’re a developer, homeowner, community activist or just curious about how things work, this forum has gems for everyone.

Understanding the Clarendon Planning, Environment & Development Committee

It’s the engine room behind all land and building approvals in Clarendon. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Meets every first Thursday of the month.
  • Comprises all 22 councillors, plus representatives from NEPA, Ministry of Health, the Fire Brigade, and more.
  • Reviews and approves:
    • Building and subdivision applications
    • Signage and advertisements
    • Land use and zoning changes

Note: Community groups are not present during these meetings due to confidentiality concerns, but can engage through general Council sessions.

Role of the Director of Planning: More Than Just Paperwork

Staphel Thomas described his role as “the driver” behind land development in the parish. And rightfully so.

  • Coordinates all agency feedback (NEPA, Health, Roads, etc.).
  • Ensures each project aligns with:
    • Vision 2030 Jamaica
    • The Local Sustainable Development Plan (LSDP)
    • The Development Orders

His department doesn’t just sign off – they guide, supervise and educate the process from start to finish.

Balancing Growth with Protection

Every plan reviewed must weigh economic progress with environmental responsibility. How?

  • Using NEPA’s guidance and environmental reports.
  • Following development zoning laws.
  • Holding developers accountable to infrastructure, drainage, and health standards.

Common Challenges: From Rural Land to Misinformation

The forum didn’t shy away from the real talk:

  • Unregistered land in rural areas delays approvals.
  • Developers often submit incomplete plans, leading to months of back and forth.
  • Illegal construction continues to be a headache for enforcement.

But there’s hope. The Corporation accepts alternative ownership proof, like declarations from community members, alongside tax certificates.

🗣️ Pro tip: Don’t take guidance from “the man on the street.” Go straight to the Corporation for the right info.

Community Engagement: Yes, You Can Get Involved

Even if you’re not part of the monthly committee, your voice matters.

  • Watch for “Intention to Build” signs – if something doesn’t sit right, raise it with the Corporation.
  • Attend public forums and town halls advertised on social media and by local criers.
  • Participate in consultations – especially now as the Local Sustainable Development Plan and Development Orders are being revised.

Youth Involvement: Our Future Planners

Each Local Government Month, Clarendon’s youth are invited to take part as:

  • Youth Mayors
  • Youth Councillors
  • Active participants in simulated council meetings

These experiences help shape the next generation of civic leaders.

Quick Note on Signage

Planning to promote your event or business?

  • Apply before erecting a sign, whether it’s temporary or permanent.
  • Fees vary depending on size.
  • Failure to comply can lead to charges, and removal costs will come from your pocket.

Ready to Be Part of the Process?

We’ve all got a role in shaping the future of Clarendon.

📣 See something unusual going up in your community? Ask about it.

📄 Planning to build or develop land? Visit the Clarendon Municipal Corporation first.

👥 Know someone confused about the process? Share this blog post or the forum replay.

🔁 Missed the Live Forum?

📺 Click here to watch the full replay on YouTube

💬 Join the Conversation

Have a question or concern? Want to know more about upcoming consultations or initiatives? Leave a comment or message the CMC directly. Let’s build Clarendon together.

This post is published in partnership with the Clarendon Municipal Corporation (CMC), working for you always.