Rasbert Turner, Portmore Star Writer

Residents of several sections of Portmore have expressed concerns as to the significance of the Forum Hotel that has been in a state of disrepair and has even become an eyesore for visitors.

The residents told THE PORTMORE STAR that for years the hotel, which was built by Urban Development Corporation (UDC), has been out of use and now it is creating problems as persons of bad character have vandalised and removed all the metals from the structure.

"They need to do something about it man, every time I look at it I feel a way," one resident said. "And whenever visitors come and ask we why that hotel is there and what was it for or what will it be used for, I can't say anything cause nobody talk to us to and let us know what goin' on."

a target for others

Another problem the residents said is that many people have taken up residence - illegally - in the more than 20 houses surrounding the old hotel. They also said that several large trees and overgrowing shrubs have made persons travelling the area on foot and going about their businesses a target for others who often hide among the bushes and commit criminal acts.

Persons who also do business along the nearby Port Henderson Road are asking the authorities to deal with the hotel so that it can be beneficial to the residents or have it demolished.

When THE PORTMORE STAR checked with the Portmore Municipal Council, it advised that talks are being held with the UDC to see the way forward and how best the Forum Hotel can be dealt with.

haven for criminals

Police revealed that they have received reports from several persons who have been attacked in the area. They, too, believe that as it is, it is a haven for criminal and people with criminal intent. Meanwhile the Portmore Citizen Advisory Council said that it will need all the support it can from all agencies involved to make the best use of the hotel.