St. John’s Renewal a Key Priority for Newly Elected Minister Turner
The newly elected Minister of Social and Urban Transformation, Rawden Turner, is focusing on revitalizing St. John’s as part of his portfolio. Prime Minister Gaston Browne, speaking on Turner’s appointment, outlined the government’s plans to address neglected properties and boost the city’s appeal.
“We expect Minister Turner to engage property owners in consultations, encouraging them to spruce up their buildings,” Browne stated. “Simple interventions like adding cement boards, plastering, and painting facades can significantly improve the appearance of Market Street and other areas.”
Browne highlighted the potential for government support, including financial incentives. “If we have to give funding through the entrepreneurial fund—maybe $20,000, $30,000, or $50,000—to assist property owners, we are open to that. But there must be a collective effort to improve St. John’s,” he said.
The government is also considering penalties for property owners who neglect their buildings, such as buy-back provisions if properties remain undeveloped. Browne explained, “This is not about land banking. It’s about stimulating construction and enhancing the central business district.”
Turner’s role includes coordinating urban renewal efforts to address safety concerns posed by derelict properties, which have been linked to hazards such as fires and rodent infestations. “Neglected properties are not just an eyesore; they undermine public safety and the value of the entire area,” Browne said.
The initiative is part of the government’s broader effort to align urban development with economic growth. “We cannot have a thriving economy while living in squalor. This is about uplifting everyone and making St. John’s a city we can all be proud of,” Browne concluded.
Turner is expected to unveil specific plans for urban renewal in the coming months, with a focus on collaboration and sustainable development.
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