The popular and critically acclaimed Rockfort Mineral Spa and Bath complex in Kingston has been officially reopened after several months of hiatus, during which time the Caribbean Cement Company Limited (CCCL) conducted major renovations of the site.

The work by the Caribbean Cement was done in partnership with the Jamaica National Heritage Trust (JNHT) and the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Youth and Sport under Minister Olivia ‘Babsy’ Grange.

In exchange for a quarter-century-long lease of the Rockfort Bath and Spa, the CCCL has been leading a major ‘rehabilitative programme’ of its facilities, which is set to last five years.

The reopening of Rockfort marks the conclusion of ‘phase one’ in the rehabilitation programme, which began in December 2024. This period was focused on improving the property’s bathrooms, upgrading its changing rooms, introducing new plumbing features and bolstering the security system.

Minister Grange, who was present for the official reopening of the Bath and Spa on Thursday, August 21st, expressed great pride in the project, alongside her desire to provide chances for the tourism and entertainment sectors to take full advantage of the site.

“This is the realisation of one of our priority targets for the year,” she commented. “As the Government of Jamaica continues to open up opportunities for the Jamaican people to access a healthy and productive lifestyle, locations like Rockfort Mineral Bath have a role to play. We look forward to families, to churches, social clubs, and societies taking advantage of this facility as part of their diverse offerings and activities.”

Chairman of the JNHT, Orville Hill, also described the reopening of the site as a significant moment, one which deserved praise and support.

“This site, one of Kingston’s most treasured landmarks, is more than a place of leisure. It is a national monument formally designated by the JNHT in 1992. As custodian of the history, the JNHT holds fast to its responsibility to preserve and protect monuments like Rockfort, ensuring that they remain a source of education, inspiration, and national pride for generations to come.”

Jorge Martinez, the Managing Director of CCCL, has stated that his company is dedicated to Rockfort, claiming that over three times the initially planned budget was allocated to its rehabilitation. At the same time, he stressed that Caribbean Cement was also committed to providing a cost-effective experience for those who wished to visit the baths.

“While these improvements reflect a major investment, we have been deliberate in keeping access to the facilities very affordable,” he clarified.

The Rockfort Bath, first discovered after the devastating Kingston 1907 earthquake, is one of several natural mineral springs across the island, with other notable examples including the Milk and Salt River baths in Clarendon.

Costs for entrance to the renovated Rockfort Bath are at $700 for adults, $500 for seniors 55 years and older, $500 for children between the ages of 4 to 12, and $350 for visitors not using the pool. Children under the age of four are able to enter free of charge.