Guardsman Hospitality has adopted the newly refurbished Old Folly Scenic Park in Discovery Bay, St Ann. The entity, which manages Puerto Seco Beach, Hope Zoo and Konoko Falls, has entered into an agreement with the Tourism Product Development Company Limited (TPDCo) for the adoption and maintenance of the park. The agreement will run for five years, from February 1, 2024, to January 31, 2029.
Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett underscored the importance of the park, highlighting its role in integrating tourists into the community. "Tourists are not an imposition on the community. The tourist that comes is part of the income-generating activity of the community," he said.
Krystal Lee, member of parliament for St Ann North West, where the park is located, expressed her gratitude and excitement about the engagement. "This park doesn't only serve as a place for tourists and visitors, but also for our locals. Even before its completion, our local people were stopping by, taking pictures, buying ice cream, and having a seat.
Now, tourists on buses also stop by to see the beautiful view we have here," she said. Executive director of the TPDCo, Wade Mars, said the park is a gift to the people of Discovery Bay. He said that it is "A place where families can gather, children can play, and visitors can experience the warmth and beauty of our community.
It's a place where we can all take pride in our heritage and our environment"..
