Shaping Our Future: Inside Clarendon’s Planning, Environment & Development Process
- Winsome M. Sherrier Witter
- Mar 31
- 3 min read
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?
💬 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.
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