4 months ago
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New Rozelle Properties Limited is investing in a large-scale mixed-use development in White Horses, St Thomas, that leverages the upgraded road infrastructure and rising community expectations, documents show.
The company plans to build 917 residential units on 150-acres spread – equivalent to about 55 football fields – as outlined in an environmental impact assessment report done by Ecosystems Quality Management Limited on behalf of New Rozelle.
Construction will be done in five phases, starting in 2026, pending approval by the National Environment and Planning Agency.
The development will feature a mix of family homes, townhouses, and commercial shopping, though the total investment cost remains undisclosed. The Financial Gleaner contacted three directors at New Rozelle Properties who declined to comment, for now, having noted a preference to complete the ongoing community consultations.
“The proposed Rozelle Estates development emerges at a pivotal moment for the communities of Rozelle and White Horses in St Thomas, Jamaica,” the impact report stated. “This social impact assessment reveals a strong consensus among residents and local business operators that the development is both necessary and timely.”
New Rozelle Properties was incorporated in September 2020 and operates from the Liguanea area in Kingston.
The company lists real estate development and sales as its core activity. Its directors are listed as Leon Mitchell, Diandra Daley, Donovan Farquharson, John Sinclair, and Walter Melbourne, all of whom are also shareholders with equal allotments of one ordinary share each, Companies Office of Jamaica documents show.
White Horse is a community of about 2,775 persons, the report noted, citing official demographic data. The report notes half of the community lack formal education, while 16 per cent are educated to the tertiary level.
“The majority of respondents earn less than $100,000 monthly, underscoring the urgent need for sustainable job creation,” the report noted.
“A striking 93 per cent of residents support the project, and 85.7 per cent of local business operators believe it will positively impact their operations,” it said.
The development site lies near wetlands, scenic coastal areas and springs, raising concerns about ecological preservation. Particular concern surrounds Rozelle Spring, a natural water source and local landmark. To protect it, the developers propose establishing buffer zones, implementing stormwater systems, and constructing a tertiary sewage treatment plant. Regular hydrological monitoring and community consultations are also recommended to ensure long-term protection and inclusion in planning.
The community of White Horses has seen gradual improvement over the past 15 years, especially in education and digital connectivity. However, the environmental report highlights that infrastructure remains fragile. Many households rely on standpipes or endure frequent water lock-offs. While sanitation has improved modestly, pit latrines remain prevalent. Roads, drainage, and exposure to flooding and hurricanes continue to present challenges.
Government-led projects are also under way, with the National Housing Trust planning 660 units in the community of Roselle by 2028 as part of its broader initiative to develop 19,575 housing solutions nationwide.
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