Real estate investment company, FirstRock Real Estate Investments, has officially broken ground on its second significant development in Jamaica on Thursday (February 23) with another two slated to commence this year.

The project, dubbed ‘Bonne Chance’, is a J$2.5-billion residential apartment tower located in the heart of
New Kingston, at Brompton Road.

FirstRock Real Estate has its operations regionally, however, Jamaica remains its main development hub.

The ‘Bonne Chance’ development will feature a 10-storey high-rise building, housing 43 units, consisting of 31 studios,10 one-bedroom apartments. Bonne Chance will also feature two two-bedroom penthouses, ranging from 1900-3000 square feet.

The ‘Bonne Chance’ development utilises a complex, but contemporary design.

Resulting from its location, the architecture team was tasked to become creative in its design approach.

The development will offer amenities such as a state-of-the-art gym, underground parking, 24-hour
security, a yoga deck, a running track, an infinity pool, three entertainment spaces, a rooftop terrace with a jogging trail, a garden lounge, concierge service, and mountain and harbour views, that will be accessible to the future residents.

Making his presentation, Denroy Pusey, assistant vice president of real estate business at the FirstRock
Group, explained: “This development will span a period of 24 months, however, it is our intention to start handing out units at 18 months. All relevant approval from all government agencies has been secured and so, we have the go-ahead to commence construction right away. The Bonne Chance is the perfect housing solution for first-time homeowners, young investors, seasoned real estate investors, and institutional investors. It will transform this area.”

Adding to this, Bryan Morris, lead architect, stated: “Brompton was an obscure 0.56-acre lot that has been sitting idle for a few years. The FirstRock Group recognised its potential and engaged the service of Plexus Architects and other construction professionals to bring this vision to life. Our mandate is to make this development an iconic structure that will be added to FirstRock Real Estate’s portfolio, as they are synonymous with top-tier developments.”

In his comments, Senator Aubyn Hill, minister of industry, investment and commerce, said: “I must officially congratulate the FirstRock team for this well-thought-out development. The Ministry of Investment, Industry, and Commerce has recently undertaken a rebranding strategy to ensure that Jamaicans know that we are serious about business.”

Hill added: “The investment portfolio is one of three main areas of focus for my ministry, so I must commend FirstRock for undertaking this massive investment opportunity. The ministry’s vision is that all Jamaicans have access to safe, affordable, adequate, and legal housing solutions, so while the Kingston Metropolitan Region continues to experience the most construction boom in Jamaica since the 1990s, we
must recognise the private developers who are making great efforts to meet the overwhelming demands that exist in the housing sector.”

According to FirstRock, major players have been contracted to ensure that the development moves smoothly. Among them are partners Garco Construction, lexus Architects & Planners Ltd, Aztec, Shelards Law, Donovan Simpson, Wan, Mears & Associates, and Century 21.

Noting that it was pleased to reach this milestone, FirstRock indicated that the grand opening is expected in approximately 24 months.

More about he development can be found here.