I read with dismay that the Government wants to take over Hellshire Beach. What have they done with Fort Clarence that would make them feel they can improve Hellshire?

One pays to go into Fort Clarence, but the cozy, natural feel that is Hellshire does not exist at Fort Clarence. And forget about food - the one shop there cannot cope. I would rather see the Government manage Fort Clarence rather than interfere with that is working so well at Hellshire.

Rustic and family nature

One of Hellshire's attractions is its rustic and family nature. I have been visiting the beach for over 19 years, and know most beach people by name. I have seen children of the original vendors raised at the beach. I have watched as those children grow up and work alongside their parents. I have seen some of those children have children on their own. I have never been bothered at Hellshire - all the vendors are polite and very customer-focused.

If the Government does get involved, the charm of Hellshire will go. It is this charm that appeals to people, local and international.

Small, adequately manned police station

The same day that the article appeared in the media was the same day it was mentioned about crime at Hellshire - drugs and guns in the early hours of the morning. The Government should concentrate on getting rid of crime on the beach instead of trying to take over the beach. If Hellshire is such a crime zone, put a small, adequately manned police station there - maybe right next to Sugar Man's hotel - and manage crime away from the area.

For years, various governments have talked about renovating Port Royal and downtown Kingston. This has just been talk. The mayor of Portmore should instead push his colleagues to "walk the talk" with their plans for Port Royal and Kingston, and leave Hellshire alone. Just deal with the crime situation there, and leave it as it is - a natural and beautiful part of the island's heritage.

I am, etc.,

NICHOLAS STEPHENSON

stephensonnicholas@hotmail.com

Gordon Town, St Andrew