Grandpa Falls closed as landowner takes action

The future of St Thomas chill spot Grandpa Falls is hanging in the balance as the registered landowner, Seprod Limited, has blocked its use for fun and frolic.

The falls, which is located in Trinityville, is on a property operated by Serge Island Farms Limited, a part of the Seprod Group. Grandpa Falls is not just a getaway for residents, but has become a popular spot for everyone from family groups to couples. The attraction is overseen by Craig 'Grandpa' Pryce, a dedicated resident of Trinityville. He has transformed the area from an overgrown and obscure property to a popular destination. But Seprod issued a cease-and-desist order letter, dated October 4, 2023, citing Pryce for unauthorised use and financial solicitation at the attraction.

However, Pryce has vehemently defended his stewardship of Grandpa Falls, countering accusations of mismanagement.

"This fall is the cleanest fall in Jamaica. If activity go on Sunday night, by 11 o'clock Monday morning the place is cleaned up," he said. Pryce elaborated to THE WEEKEND STAR about the falls' popularity and how the community has embraced the site since he started cooking there about four years ago.

"When we started, it was a slow burn. But now, especially on weekends and holidays, we get a huge turnout. Saturdays and Sundays it's packed--sometimes up to 300 people," Pryce explained, highlighting the significant community interest and potential for tourism growth. Pryce also addressed the issue of visitor contributions, stating unequivocally that visitors are willing to pay for the experience if they get the opportunity to do so.

"What we do is accept donations, whatever they give, we take. We don't charge," he said. "People come here because they appreciate what we've created. They see the value in Grandpa Falls as a place to relax, swim, and enjoy nature."

The controversy has garnered attention beyond Trinityville, prompting the St Thomas in the East Tourism Cluster to intervene. In an appeal to Seprod's CEO, Richard Pandohie, dated October 11, 2023, the cluster urged reconsideration of the cease-and-desist order, advocating for a formal agreement that acknowledges Grandpa Falls' role as a community asset and potential tourist draw.

Pandohie, in response, emphasised the need for legal clarity and proper management of the falls.

"In Jamaica, we need to do things properly," he asserted, stressing the importance of a formal lease agreement to regulate operations and ensure environmental sustainability.

"A lot of people are going there, so they're engaging quite recklessly. They're leaving the place messy. I'm happy to sign a lease agreement to put things in place and just run the place properly," he said. "What I'm trying to make sure is, when something happens that it doesn't come back to haunt us as the owners of the property."