Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett says renovations to be carried out at the Priory Beach, in St. Ann will be of greater benefit to locals than, tourists.

The beach is to receive a facelift, with officials aiming for works to begin in January 2024.

Speaking at the second Townhall meeting held at the beach, on Sunday, about the upcoming works , Mr. Bartlett said locals will be the first priority.

He said while the beach will see tourists visiting, the aim of the upgrade is to provide a place for st. Ann residents to have access to beach recreation.

He said the move will also aid residents in generating more income.

According to Mr Bartlett, the upgrade will add to the massive Covid -19 recovery that the tourism sector has been experiencing.