Give gentrification a chance

THE EDITOR, Madam:

Gentrification is defined as ‘the process of renovating and improving a house or district so that it conforms to middle-class taste’. In light of that definition, Prime Minister Andrew Holness seems to be attempting to delay the inevitable process of gentrification, which is necessary in many areas of Kingston, with his plan for Bernard Lodge.

By expanding the city, instead of giving the current areas a chance to transform and revitalise themselves, we’re keeping ourselves stuck in one place.

Why waste precious agricultural land on building houses? We should invest in transportation and breathe life back into communities and towns along their paths.

Revival of the train service should be a greater priority than Bernard Lodge and would benefit a greater cross section of people.

To create this inclusive vision of prosperity which Mr Holness has, the investment can’t just be in the Corporate Area, the rural areas must be included as well. The railway is the best way to do this.

HUGH MAGNUS