The Editor, Sir:

I have read your March 6 editorial on the Prime Minister Bruce Golding's moratorium on relocation of public service offices uptown with great interest. I must applaud the prime minister's programme and position on returning business to the downtown area as it shows real vision, direction and insight. Not only is this programme fiscally responsible, it also springs new hope for the core of our capital which has been left to languish in ruin. The potential of the downtown area is endless, with its modern grid plan and waterfront access.

As a fourth-generation merchant in downtown Kingston, I can recall innumerable promises and plans that never materialised. This time, however, I see real actions following these words and am encouraged.

The buildings of downtown are hidden treasures that have stood the test of time and weathered the worst of natural disasters. These architectural gems may once again shine after all. Let us borrow some dynamic thinking from Dubai as example and recreate the beauty that is still there, stimulate the economy, uplift what was the garrison constituencies and leave the rest of the Caribbean scratching their heads.

The existing product stands and is still excellent although somewhat tarnished, it just needs some dynamic thinking to bring back the already existing architectural integrity and revive the business community who have stood firm over the many years of economic starvation to place Kingston back as the greatest city in the beautiful waters of the Caribbean!

I am, etc.,

EDWARD JON HANNA

18-20 King Street

Kingston