Drax Hall, situated along the vibrant highway between Ocho Rios and St. Ann’s Bay, is experiencing a remarkable surge in commercial development, marking a positive transformation that has long been awaited. Jamaica Homes enthusiastically embraces this evolution, heralding it as a significant and overdue boost for the region, according to Dean Jones, Director of Jamaica Homes Portal.
“Drax Hall keeps growing. Within five years, that is where the business hub will be between St. Ann’s Bay and Ocho Rios… Jamaica Homes believes Drax Hall and the entire north coast corridor will be the next development area of St. Ann,” expressed Jones.
The recent entry of international giants like KFC, with Starbucks set to join the ranks soon, adds a dynamic flair to Drax Hall’s landscape. Alongside these, an established auto parts dealership and one of the island’s leading hardware stores are gearing up to contribute to the commercial vibrancy of the area, complementing the substantial rise in housing stock witnessed in recent years.
“At the St. Ann Municipal Corporation level, we have learned that more people are putting in plans for future development in the Drax Hall area,” Jones shared.
This progress not only provides a welcome economic boost but also generates employment opportunities, especially for the younger residents of Drax Hall and surrounding communities, including Steer Town, Mammee Bay, Priory, St. Ann’s Bay, and Seville Heights.
One of the noteworthy outcomes of Drax Hall’s development is the potential to alleviate traffic congestion in Ocho Rios and St. Ann’s Bay. As Jones explains, “You don’t have to go into those towns any longer to get certain amenities. That’s one of the main reasons for the development of Drax Hall; people want to get out of the traffic that is usually in the towns.”
The altered traffic patterns, while prompting some complaints about snarls, have inadvertently brought attention to small businesses along the Drax Hall highway, contributing to their visibility and growth.
Inspired by the location’s strategic positioning between Ocho Rios and St. Ann’s Bay, coupled with the significant volume of people using the corridor, locals are seizing the opportunity to set up shop. The construction of Highway 2000, particularly its north-south leg, has intensified the movement of commuters between Kingston and Montego Bay, further enhancing the area’s appeal.
The infusion of a KFC fast-food outlet has become a magnet, drawing numerous patrons to Drax Hall, resulting in a steady flow of customers and relatively long drive-through lines.
In reflecting on Drax Hall’s evolution, it’s essential to delve into the area’s history, recognizing the significance of where it has come from to understand its future trajectory. Drax Hall, with its rich heritage, is not merely witnessing development; it is reclaiming its place as a focal point for economic growth and community vitality in St. Ann’s Bay.