Estatebridge Holdings Limited has found itself at the center of a controversy as the Integrity Commission's report alleges a breach of the building law in the construction of an apartment complex in St Andrew. This report has sparked significant discussions and raised questions about the company's compliance and the role of relevant authorities.

Unraveling the Truth Behind Estatebridge's Building Allegations

Inspections and Competent Authority

The development in question was subject to several inspections by the Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC), which is the legally designated competent authority for determining room count and compliance. It is crucial to note that at no time during these inspections did the KSAMC observe a breach in the room count. In fact, from the most recent inspection, it was confirmed that the units indeed consisted of two bedrooms. During construction, variations in the size of areas and reconfiguration of the layout are common and do not materially change the building footprint. The necessary applications for these changes are currently in the process.

For context, the development is still ongoing, and at the time of the unannounced visits by the Integrity Commission, significant work was being carried out to correct plumbing and other issues. This involved digging into walls and slabs to identify and reroute pipes. Without observing the final structural walls and the installation of doors and other amenities, it is impossible to draw a valid conclusion regarding the number of rooms.

Allegations and Timing

The Integrity Commission's report stating that the development consisted of 4 bedrooms instead of 2 has come under scrutiny. It is important to consider the timing of this report, which coincided with Director Norman Brown's application for judicial review in the Supreme Court. This raises suspicions that it may be another attempt to damage the reputation of the company's principals by relying on hearsay, misrepresentation of facts, and spurious conclusions.

The principals of Estatebridge Holdings Limited are law-abiding citizens who have dedicated themselves to serving Jamaica. They will not be deterred by these baseless allegations and the bureaucratic overreach of an organization that is not the competent authority. Their commitment to the country and their business operations remains unwavering.

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