Residents of the Portmore community recently witnessed the signing of a contract that commissions a comprehensive study of the Hellshire beach environment, funded by telecommunications leader - LIME.

Coastal engineering firm, Smith Warner International Ltd have been retained to conduct a two-phase study of the commercial beachfront property. The results of the study will be used to develop a solution that will facilitate the formation of an additional 10 to 15 metres of dry beach, stabilise the area and prevent further deterioration.

Speaking at the ceremony, LIME Regional Special Projects Manager, Stephen Price, said, "LIME has a vested interest in the continued development and sustainability of the Hellshire Beach area. Through this effort, we are helping to secure the safety and livelihood of thousands of persons who utilise the beach, including vendors, craftsmen and fishermen".

According to Jamel Banton, director at Smith Warner, "Over the past five years, erosion primarily caused by hurricane activity, which is expected to worsen with the effects of global warming, has resulted in a narrowing of the beach by up to 10 metres".

Banton also informed that, if the existing attrition is not reduced, the shoreline is expected to retreat further inland, thereby lessening the viability of the popular beach area for recreational and commercial activities.

He further urged members of the beach community to do their part in preserving the natural resource by reducing pollution and utilising receptacles for the disposal of solid waste.

According to Peter Knight, CEO of the National Environment and Planning Agency, "NEPA fully endorses this initiative, because we recognise that the Hellshire beach area is an important part of the recreational patrimony of the Jamaican people and, as such, any effort which will result in the enhancement and sustainable management of the beach is not only welcomed, but also applauded by the agency."

Glaston Whyte, president of the Half Moon Bay Fisherman's Cooperative furthered Banton's sentiment saying: "The residents of Hellshire Beach are very thankful for the support from LIME. We're very concerned about the gradual disappearance of the beach front, and we are anxious to identify the cause". Whyte also pointed out that, since the passage of Hurricane Dean in 2007, erosion of the coastline has become more rapid and, therefore, the study is extremely timely.

The first phase of the study will include an extensive data-gathering exercise on the biological environment and the use of computer models to undertake preliminary engineering analyses. Thereafter, the proposed options for beach stabilisation and enhancement will be developed and presented to representatives of the Hellshire community and other stakeholders. The final result will be an engineering design inclusive of structural recommendations, beach renourishment plans, and the identification of mitigation strategies.

Through a partnership with the Fisherman's Cooperative, LIME has also provided fishing gear, boating equipment and a closed user group for members of the beach community. The company has also assisted with painting, installing a decorative entrance, and the refurbishment of several stalls along the beachfront.