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Final Draft Municipal Development Plan (2010-2020)

Sangre Grande Regional Municipality

Excelling as a Premier International Eco-Tourism Destination

2

Sangre Grande

Regional Municipality Final Draft Municipal Development Plan

(2010 – 2020)

“Excelling as a Premier International Eco-Tourism Destination”

Sangre Grande Regional Corporation Ramdass Street, Sangre Grande

Telephone: (868) 668-2488 or 668-2461;

(868) 668-2492 Email: [email protected]

Prepared by Kairi Consultants Limited 14 Cochrane Street, Tunapuna, Trinidad and Tobago (868-663 2677/1442; [email protected])

i

Foreword

Ronald Boynes Chairman, Sangre Grande Regional Municipality

ii

The Sangre Grande Regional Development Plan has been prepared in collaboration

with the following partners:

Private Sector and NGO and Community Sector Organisations:

NGO and Community Sector

M2M

Fishing Pond Turtle Conservation Group

Grande Riviere

SAD for Toco

Toco Foundation

Nature Seekers

Rampanalgas Village Council

Balandra Environmental and Nature Tour group

St Andrew/St David Association of Village and Community Councils

Private Sector

BHP Billiton National Gas Company of Trinidad and Tobago

iii

• Including Various State Government Ministries and Statutory Agencies:

1. Environmental Management Authority

2. Evolving TecKnologies and Enterprise

Development Company Limited

3. Housing Development Corporation

4. Institute of Marine Affaiirs

5. Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Marine Resources – Head Office, Land Administration

Division, Land and Surveys Division, Forestry Division, Regional Administration North, Grow

Box Project

6. National Energy Corporation of Trinidad and Tobago Limited Ministry of Education

7. Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries -

Minerals Division and Energy Planning and Research

8. Ministry of Community Development, Culture

and Gender Affairs

9. Ministry of Health

10. Ministry of Public Utilities

11. Ministry of Social Development – Division of Ageing

12. Ministry of Tourism

13. Ministry of Works and Transport - Traffic Management

Branch, Highways Division, Drainage Division

14. Public Transport Service Corporation

15. National Entrepreneurship Development Company

16. National Reforestation and Watershed Rehabilitation Programme

17. Office of Disaster Preparedness and Management

18. Telecommunications Services of Trinidad and Tobago

19. Tourism Development Company of Trinidad and

Tobago

20. Town and Country Planning Division

21. Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards

22. Trinidad and Tobago Electricity Commission

23. Trinidad and Tobago Solid Waste Management Company Limited

24. Water and Sewerage Authority

iv

Contents

Foreword ........................................................................................................... i

Contents ........................................................................................................... iv

Tables .............................................................................................................. viii

Figures.............................................................................................................. ix

Acronyms and Abbreviations ........................................................................x

Introduction ...................................................................................................... 1

Background ............................................................................................................................ 1

Purpose and Scope of the Plan ............................................................................................... 2

Methodology ........................................................................................................................... 3

Stakeholder Engagement and Participation....................................................................... 4

Related Planning Initiatives .................................................................................................. 5

Tunapuna/Piarco Municipal Development Plan................................................................. 6

Arima Municipal Development Plan .................................................................................. 7

Mayaro/Rio Claro Municipal Development Plan ................................................................ 8

Structure of the Plan .............................................................................................................. 8

Context and Strategic Analysis .................................................................. 10

Introduction .......................................................................................................................... 10

Overview of Existing Conditions and Trends ....................................................................... 10

Legislative and Institutional Framework ......................................................................... 10

Planning Framework ........................................................................................................ 11

Physical and Biological Dimensions ................................................................................. 11

Socioeconomic Dimensions ................................................................................................ 17

Land Use and Economic Activity ...................................................................................... 19

Transportation .................................................................................................................. 20

Physical and Social Infrastructure ................................................................................... 23

SWOT Analysis .................................................................................................................... 23

Social Issues ......................................................................................................................... 24

Economic Issues ................................................................................................................... 25

Environmental Issues .......................................................................................................... 25

v

Infrastructural ..................................................................................................................... 25

Administrative ..................................................................................................................... 26

Strategic Framework .................................................................................... 27

Sangre Grande’s Role in National Spatial Development ..................................................... 27

Development Goal, Strategic Vision and Direction .............................................................. 28

Development Goal ............................................................................................................. 28

Vision ................................................................................................................................ 29

Development Objectives .................................................................................................... 29

Development Strategy .......................................................................................................... 30

A Balanced Growth Strategy ............................................................................................ 30

Broad Spatial Context ...................................................................................................... 30

Population Dynamics of Sangre Grande ........................................................................... 31

The Overall Strategy ........................................................................................................ 32

Spatial Development Framework ..................................................................................... 34

Thematic Policies and Proposals ............................................................... 36

Introduction .......................................................................................................................... 36

Urban Design (UD)............................................................................................................... 37

Urban Design Framework ................................................................................................ 37

Policy Objective ................................................................................................................. 39

Urban Design Policies and Proposals ............................................................................... 39

Environmental Management (EM) ...................................................................................... 44

Introduction ...................................................................................................................... 44


Policies and Proposals ....................................................................................................... 46

Economic Development (ED) ................................................................................................ 63

Introduction ...................................................................................................................... 63

Policy Objectives ............................................................................................................... 63


Transportation (TP).............................................................................................................. 77

Introduction ...................................................................................................................... 77



Housing (HU) ....................................................................................................................... 86

vi

Introduction ...................................................................................................................... 86



Social and Community Amenities and Services (SC) ........................................................... 90

Introduction ...................................................................................................................... 90



Infrastructure and Public Utilities (IP) ............................................................................... 99

Introduction ...................................................................................................................... 99

Policy Objective ............................................................................................................... 100

Policies and Proposals ..................................................................................................... 100

Institutional Strengthening (IS) ........................................................................................ 106

Introduction .................................................................................................................... 106



Municipal Management (MM)............................................................................................ 110

Introduction .................................................................................................................... 110



District Policies and Proposals ................................................................ 113

Introduction ........................................................................................................................ 113

Common Polices ................................................................................................................. 114

District Polices and Proposals ............................................................................................ 115

Town of Sangre Grande (TG) .......................................................................................... 115

Greater Sangre Grande (GS) .......................................................................................... 120

Matura to Matelot (MT) .................................................................................................. 122

Valencia (VA) .................................................................................................................. 127

Greater Tamana (GT) ..................................................................................................... 131

Manzanilla (MA) ............................................................................................................. 134

Fishing Pond/North Manzanilla (FM) ............................................................................ 138

Implementation ............................................................................................ 140

Implementation Mechanisms ............................................................................................. 140

Management of Development ............................................................................................. 140

vii

Funding .............................................................................................................................. 141

Community Participation in the Development Process ..................................................... 141

Programmes and Projects................................................................................................... 142

Monitoring and Review ...................................................................................................... 142

viii

Tables

Table 1: Sangre Grande Population Statistics by Community ................................................ 17

Table 2: Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats ................................................. 23

Table 3: Distribution of Population by Communities 2000 and 2020 ...................................... 32

Table 4: Protected Areas in Sangre Grande .......................................................................... 49

Table 5: Tourism Resources within the Municipality of Sangre Grande ................................ 51

Table 6: Food Basket Designated Areas in the Sangre Grande Municipality ......................... 69

Table 7: Priority Roads in Need of Improvement in the Short Term ...................................... 80

Table 8: Population, Household and Dwelling Units, 2000 and 2020 ..................................... 87

Table 9: Water Demand for Sangre Grande, 2020 ................................................................. 101

ix

Figures

Figure 1: Location of Sangre Grande in the Trinidad and Tobago Context .............................. 2

Figure 2: Stages of the Regional Development Planning Process ............................................. 5

Figure 3: The Sub-Regions and Communities of Sangre Grande ............................................ 13

Figure 4: Land Use in Sangre Grande Town and Valencia ..................................................... 21

Figure 5: Generalised Land Use and Major Committed Developments .................................. 22

Figure 6: Land Use Proposals for the Municipality of Sangre Grande ................................... 35

x

Acronyms and Abbreviations

Acronym/Abbreviation

Definition

CCTV Close Circuit Television

CBO Community Based Organisation

CEC Certificate of Environmental Clearance

CHR Churchill Roosevelt Highway

COP Commissioner of Police

ECCECs Early Childhood Care and Education Centres

ED Economic Development

EM Environmental Management

EMA Environmental Management Authority

EMR Eastern Main Road

e TecK Evolving TecKnologies and Enterprise Development

Company Limited

HU Housing

IDP Integrated Development Planning

IMA Institute of Marine Affairs

IP Infrastructure and Public Utilities

IS Institutional Strengthening

LEAP Land-related Education and Awareness Programme

LSA Land Settlement Agency

MALMR Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Marine Resources

MCA Municipal Corporations Act

MCDCGA Ministry of Community Development, Culture and

Gender Affairs

MLG Ministry of Local Government

MM Municipal Management

MOE Ministry of Education

MOWT Ministry of Works and Transport

xi


Definition

MPHE Ministry of Planning, Housing and the Environment

MSTTE Ministry of Science, Technology and Tertiary

Education

MSYA Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs

M2M Matura and then along the coast to Matelot

NCDP National Conceptual Development Plan

NEP National Environmental Policy

NGO Non-Government organisation

NPDP National Physical Development Plan

NRWR The National Reforestation and Watershed

Rehabilitation Programme

NSS National Spatial Strategy

ODPM Office of Disaster Preparedness and Management

PATT Port Authority of Trinidad and Tobago

PSIP Public Sector Investment Programme

PTSC Public Transport Service Corporation

PURE People United Respecting the Environment

PWPs People with Disabilities

RDC Rural Development Company of Trinidad and Tobago

Limited

RDP Regional Development Plan

SC Social and Community Amenities and Services

SDP Spatial Development Plan

SGRC Sangre Grande Regional Corporation

SWMCOL Solid Waste Management Company Limited

SWOT Strengths, Weakness, Opportunity and Threats

TCP Town and Country Planning

TCPD Town and Country Planning Division

TDC Tourism Development Company Limited Trinidad

and Tobago

xii


Definition

TMB Traffic Management Branch

TP Transportation

TRRTS Trinidad Rapid Rail Transit System

T&TEC Trinidad and Tobago Electricity Commission

TTPS Trinidad and Tobago Police Services

UD Urban Design

UFW Unaccounted-For-Water

URP Unemployment Relief Programme

UTT University of Trinidad and Tobago

UWI University of the West Indies

WASA Water and Sewerage Authority

WSMP Water Sector Modernisation Programme

WWMP Water and Wastewater Master Plan

1

Introduction

Background

The importance of the Sangre Grande Regional Municipality lies in its vast natural

resources and its potential for the establishment of sustainable resource-based

development. The Municipality, as shown in Figure 1, covers the northeast corner of

Trinidad. It is noted for its agriculture, fishing, mining deposits of mainly sand and

gravel, and for its vast eco-tourism potential. More recently, the exploitation of oil

and gas in the waters off its coastline has added to its list of natural resources.

Within the Region also lies the Sangre Grande town centre, one of the largest

population centres in East Trinidad, an area targeted for economic growth and

expansion. Though noted as the poorest Municipality within Trinidad and Tobago,

over the years the people of Sangre Grande have shown their resilience, creativity

and independence by creating a model for community and regional development

utilising the surrounding natural resources in their midst for which their Region has

become internationally known.

Despite its potential for sustainable development, there are number of socioeconomic

priorities which must be addressed as the Region moves forward. However, a

number of developments proposed both within and just outside its borders could

provide the much needed impetus for positive growth and development of the

Municipality. This is the context in which the Draft Sangre Grande Municipality

Regional Development Plan (RDP) has been prepared in keeping with the mandate of

the Ministry of Local Government (MLG) for the Sangre Grande Regional Corporation

(SGRC) to formulate a development plan for the Municipality. This is part of an

overall programme to cover the landscape of Trinidad with regional comprehensive

development plans to address the issues of the Municipalities which the various

2

Municipal Corporations and

other agencies need to

handle in the discharge of

their functions.

Figure 1: Location of Sangre Grande in the Trinidad and Tobago Context

Purpose and Scope of the Plan

The Draft Plan provides a sustainable regional development framework for the

Sangre Grande Municipality from 2011 to 2020 and beyond to accommodate and

guide development and the spatial distribution of social, economic, cultural,

infrastructural and environmental activities of its burgesses and partner agencies

operating within its boundaries. The Plan has been formulated following a series of

consultations and dialogues with various stakeholders within the Municipality and

agencies operating in the Municipality on issues which need to be addressed in the

Plan.

The RDP will set the framework for the formulation of detailed policies and local area

plans for areas that require more elaborate treatment.

To facilitate early and well-informed solutions to the problems that beset the Region,

the RDP goes a step further to include a number of concrete projects through which

the Municipal Corporation and other partner agencies will be able to implement the

policies on which the Plan is based. The projects can be included in the annual

budgetary allocations of the Corporation, and the implementing agencies established

under the MLG such as the Rural Development Company of Trinidad and Tobago

Limited (RDC), and in the national Public Sector Investment Programme (PSIP).

The RDP provides details on the distribution of the population over the Region until

2020, and broad land use allocations including the general location of land to

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accommodate population increases expected over the next decade, as well as social,

economic, cultural, infrastructural and environmental initiatives to be undertaken in

the Municipality. Mechanisms through which the Plan is to be implemented are also

outlined.

Methodology

The approach to the preparation of the Draft RDP involved the five distinct phases as

summarised in Figure 2. These key phases are as follows:

1. Orientation:

This consisted of discussions between the SGRC and the Regional Planning

Consultant (Kairi Consultants); a rapid reconnaissance survey of the

Municipality (including the review of relevant secondary information and field

visits); and finalisation of the spatial development planning process, including

the stakeholder engagement and public consultation process.

2. Survey and Analysis:

Involved an extensive review of collected information and data; the conduct

of several specialist studies, including a „windscreen‟ land and building use

survey in strategic urban centres; and consultations with public sector

agencies and other stakeholders of the Municipality. A first Stakeholder

Consultation was held during this phase.

3. Data Analysis and Synthesis:

Analysis and synthesis of data, at the end of which key development planning

issues and problems were identified.

4. Scenario Planning:

The phase usually involves the generation of alternative development

scenarios with potential to address the issues, followed by an assessment of

these alternatives and the selection of the preferred option. However, the

Municipality of Sangre Grande over the last two years has been in the middle

of socioeconomic development planning process out of which an Integrated

Development Plan had been prepared. It is during this phase that the two

development planning processes were dovetailed. The outcomes of the first

Stakeholder Consultation and the Integrated Development Plan were used to

formulate a selected scenario in keeping with the wishes of the stakeholders

consulted.

4

5. Plan Development:

Preparation of the Draft RDP based upon the scenario preferred by

stakeholders participating in the second Stakeholder Consultation. Thematic

proposals were prepared based on Regional and Urban Form and Design,

Environmental Management (including disaster management and climate

change); Economic Development; Social and Community Services and

Facilities; Transportation; Physical Infrastructure; Institutional Strengthening;

and Municipal Management.

Policies and proposals are also formulated at the level of the nine designated

sub-regions within the Municipality.

A public consultation is to be held to present and review the plan and to gain

feedback on its contents. The results of this review process will be used to

finalise the final Draft Plan.

Stakeholder Engagement and Participation

Stakeholder participation was an integral part of the process, and involved

discussions with individual Local Government Councillors, the administrative and

technical heads of sections at the SGRC, government departments and statutory

agencies, public sector and non-government organisation (NGO) and community

sector agencies and individuals, on the challenges and future development of the

Municipality. Also included were public consultations at which burgesses and

agencies working in the Municipality were able to articulate and agree on the manner

in which the Municipality will develop over the long term.

5

Figure 2: Stages of the Regional Development Planning Process for the Sangre Grande Municipality

Public Consultations

Two public consultations are part of the process. The first public consultation was

undertaken to formulate a Vision for future development of the Municipality, to

identify the key challenges which must be addressed and possible strategies which

should be implemented to realise this shared Vision for the Municipality. This

consultation was attended by 69 persons and included the Member of Parliament for

Toco/Sangre Grande, the Chairman and other members of the SGRC Council, and

representatives of NGO and community sector organisations.

The second upcoming consultation will be held to present and obtain feedback on the

Draft RDP which will be used to prepare a final draft version of the Plan.

Related Planning Initiatives

Development activity, existing and proposed at the national level as a whole and in

adjacent Municipalities, would impact the development and use of land in Sangre

Grande and vice versa. The municipalities adjacent to the Municipality of Sangre

Grande are Tunapuna/Piarco, Mayaro/Rio Claro and Couva/Tabaquite/Talparo.

Moreover, many residents in Valencia and Sangre Grande look to Arima for services

and therefore any significant development in Arima would also impact on the

Municipality. There is also a probability of imminent boundary changes which will

further influence the Municipality.

Phase One

Orientation

Meetings between SGCRC and Consultant

Conduct of rapid reconnaissance Survey -

Review of Secondary Information & Field Visits

Finalising the Regional Development Planning

Process

Phase Two

Survey & Analysis

Stakeholder Consultations - Individual Meetings with Councillors, Technical &

Administrative Staff, Central Government, Statutory Agencies, Private & NGO/CBO

Sectors

Background Studies (Existing Conditions) -Land & Building Use,

Socioeconomic, Tranportation,

Infrastructure & Public Utilities , Environment,

Legislative & Institutional

Identification of Vision, Goals & Objectives

Phase Three

Data Analysis & Synthesis

Background Studies (Identification of Issues &

Challenges) - Land & Building Use, Socio-

economic, Tranportation, Infrastructure & Public Utilities , Environment,

Legislative & Institutional

SWOT Analysis

Preparation of Situational Report 1

Phase Four

Scenario Planning

Conduct of Stakeholder Consultations

Finalisation of Preferred Scenario Based on the

Feedback from the Consultations

Assessment of Potential Implications of the Preferred Scenario

Preparation of Situational Report 2

Phase Five

Plan Development

Conduct of Further Stakeholder Consultations

Development of Strategies, Land Use Plan, Proposals & Projects, Implementation

Plan

Preparation of First Draft RDP

Presentation of Draft RDP to the Public

Preparation of Stakeholder Engagement & Public

Consultaion Report

Completion of Final Draft RDP

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The national context is contained in various planning instruments including the

statutory National Physical Development Plan Trinidad and Tobago (NPDP) of 1980.

Regional planning initiatives currently underway for the Borough of Arima, and the

Municipalities of Tunapuna/Piarco, Mayaro/Rio Claro, and Couva/Tabaquite/Talparo

are also relevant.

The following shows the main strategic directions for neighbouring Municipalities, as

outlined in the respective Draft RDPs.

Tunapuna/Piarco Spatial Development Plan

Tunapuna/Piarco includes the 416.5-hectare site of the Tamana InTech Park, a light

industrial estate with an academic and research component that includes the main

campus of the University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT). The completely built-out

Park is projected to contain a population of around 12,000 persons in addition to a

university population of 8,000. Another approximately 2,500 to 3,000 persons are

expected to be engaged in providing services to the Park.1 This development will

exert a tremendous influence upon Arima whether or not Wallerfield is incorporated

into the area to be managed by an Arima City Corporation.

Other major development proposals in Tunapuna/Piarco that would impact the

spatial development of Arima include HDC plans for an extension to the La Horquetta

residential development; and proposals by Home Construction Limited (HCL) to

continue the implementation of the Millennium Vision development at Trincity to

include multiple-family residential development on sites totalling approximately 24

hectares.

The broad spatial development framework for Tunapuna/Piarco as proposed in the

draft SDP involves the allocation of the land in the Municipality to 2020 as follows:

Conservation Forestry over the entire Northern Range system within with the

possible exception of low-impact forms of agriculture in limited areas, and

infilling and limited expansion of existing settlements;

Agriculture on all of the undeveloped land between the CRH and the southern

boundary of the Municipality, new development within this area being

restricted to consolidation and limited expansion of the settlements to the

south of the Caroni River;

Intensified urban development in the East West Corridor;

Mixed development in the southern portion of the Wallerfield community to

include the Tamana InTech Park, housing and support activities, and

agriculture; and

1 Tamana InTech Park Community Development Plan and Transportation Report, Volume 1, All-Inclusive Project Development Services Limited (APDSL).

7

A hierarchy of centres at the apex of which is Tunapuna as Regional Centre;

and including Trincity and Wallerfield as Sub-Regional Centres.

Development of a University Town consisting of St Joseph-Curepe-St.

Augustine.

The strategy of Dispersed Concentration on which the SDP is based will see economic

activity dispersed to the smaller centres within the region including Blanchisseuse, La

Laja, Aripo and Brasso Seco which currently are more oriented to Arima than they

are to the centres in Tunapuna/Piarco. Road improvements proposed in the Plan

include the upgrade of the Arima-Blanchisseuse Road.

Arima Spatial Development Plan

Many of the policies and proposals in the Draft Arima SDP require the necessary

resources of the surrounding Municipality for their implementation.

The Plan is based upon the Eco-Cultural City Concept a „resource oriented and

ecological‟ approach to development‟2. Three of the communities that are currently in

Tunapuna/Piarco are proposed to be annexed to the Borough under the strategy,

namely, Maturita, Olton Road, and Santa Rosa Heights.

Elements of the strategy include strengthening of the traditional role of Arima as an

important regional service centre in north east Trinidad. Investment in nature and

cultural tourism and other sustainable economic activities is to be promoted in order

to enhance and conserve the natural and cultural assets of the town and its environs

and to broaden the economic base. Policies most relevant to Tunapuna/Piarco, and

dependent upon the resources contained within its boundaries would ensure the

following:

Optimisation of the conservation and use of areas and features of high

landscape and amenity value including Cleaver Woods Recreation Park, Arima

Blanchisseuse Road, and the foothills of the Northern Range;

Promotion of research and development activities in order to create and refine

new technologies and products through, inter alia, development of a

relationship between the University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT) and

Evolving TecKnologies and Enterprise Development Company Limited (e TecK)

regarding the introduction of structured research activities at O‟Meara Eco-

Industrial Park; and

Development of functional links and complementary research and

development activities between the Eco-Industrial Park and the Tamana

InTech Park at Wallerfield.

2 Draft Arima SDP prepared by Kairi Consultants Limited

8

Mayaro/Rio Claro Regional Development Plan

The Plan is based on the Concentrated Focus on Selected Centres Strategy which

promotes spatial equity where development will be distributed across the

Municipality, but with emphasis on Rio Claro, Mayaro, Biche and Guayaguayare, and

Rio Claro having the dominant role as the Municipal centre, and Mayaro as a smaller

but more prominent centre. The strategy attempts to counter the tendency for

mono-centric development in Rio Claro, not by weakening the role and functions of

that centre, but rather by bringing fresh State and private investment into the other

identified centres, particularly Mayaro, Biche and Guayaguayare in order to improve

their competitiveness, their ability to provide a better level of socio-economic activity

and services and improve the quality of life for all residents.

Many of the policies and proposals in the Draft Mayaro/Rio Claro RDP require

utilisation of the natural resource base of the Municipality for their implementation.

Some of the policies are as follows:

Conservation and use of some of these areas and features of high landscape,

cultural and aesthetic value in the development of a vibrant tourism/eco-

tourism sector;

The revitalisation of agriculture through an improvement of infrastructure,

strengthened marketing system and facilities for farmers, and development of

agro- and fish-processing industries – The development of an industrial park

in Rio Claro mainly catering for agro-processing activities;

The repositioning of Guayaguayare as a port town, through the development

of the Galeota Port and fishing facilities; and

The provision of a basic level of social and community amenities facilities in

all communities consistent with the creation of sustainable communities;

caters to the needs of all regardless of gender, age and ability; and promotes

social cohesiveness.

Structure of the Plan

The Draft RDP for the Sangre Grande Municipality comprises this Written Statement

and a series of Annexes and Maps. This Plan sets the context for development;

includes the strategic framework for the sustainable development of Sangre Grande;

and provides detailed Thematic and District Policies and Proposals to be implemented

over the next 10 years.

Annex One provides a detailed analysis of the existing situation within the

Municipality, including an account of its natural assets, socioeconomic conditions,

local government administration structure, and the challenges currently affecting and

likely to affect its future development.

9

Annex Two outlines the three scenarios for future development, the results of

evaluation of the alternative scenarios and a future description of the selected

development alternative.

Annex Three describes the stakeholder consultation process, what stakeholders said

and provides recommendations for future participatory development planning

activities in the Municipality.

10

Context and Strategic Analysis

Introduction

This Chapter outlines the principal national policy documents that have been used to

inform and guide the preparation of the Draft Sangre Grande RDP and provides the

Regional Context for the Plan. Further details are provided in Appendix One:

Situational Report One - Survey and Analysis.

Overview of Existing Conditions and Trends

Legislative and Institutional Framework

Land use planning guidance is provided by the Town and Country Planning (TCP) Act,

Chapter 35:01 which is the enactment utilised by the Minister through the Town and

Country Planning Division (TCPD) to regulate and control land use and land

development in Trinidad and Tobago. The Act makes provision for the orderly and

progressive development of land in the country and requires the Minister (with

responsibility for town and country planning) to carry out a survey of the entire

country and to submit for the approval of Parliament a development plan indicating

the manner in which it is proposed to utilise the land.

The Environmental Management Act (Act No 3 of 2000) is the principal enactment

regulating and controlling environmental management by the Environmental

Management Authority. The main link between environmental management and

development planning is via the Certificate of Environmental Clearance (CEC) Rules,

2001 which guide the assessment of development projects which are anticipated to

have a significant impact upon the environment.

11

The Municipal Corporations Act (MCA) No. 21 of 1990 makes provision for regional

planning and physical development, and provides the basis for devolution of

authority to the Corporations. Several of the responsibilities assigned to the

municipalities under this legislation have not been assumed, including the

responsibility for physical planning which is still that of the Minister.

While the EMA has overall responsibility for environmental management, there are a

number of Government and Statutory agencies with responsibility for specific

functions relating to land use development and environmental management. The

non-governmental organisation (NGO) and community sector is also a significant

element in promoting sound environmental management at local, regional, and

national levels.

Planning Framework

The plan is being prepared within the context of a number of plans and policy

instruments, the most significant of which are:

National Physical Development Plan (NPDP), which is the only statutory guide

to land use and development at the national level, and which designated

Arima as a Sub-Regional Centre;

Vision 2020 Draft National Strategic Plan, which is based upon an overarching

vision for Trinidad and Tobago for “successful national development resulting

in a high quality of life for all our citizens”; and

National Spatial Strategy – NSS (2007) a strategy for the spatial development

of the country to 2020 based upon Government‟s plans to achieve developed

country status by that year.

Physical and Biological Dimensions

The Municipality of Sangre Grande is situated in northeast Trinidad and is bounded

on the south by the Mayaro/Rio Claro Municipality and on the southwest by

Couva/Tabaquite/Talparo and Tunapuna/Piarco on the west. The Region is fringed by

the Atlantic Ocean on the east and with a series of bays, and by the Caribbean Sea

in the north. Sangre Grande covers approximately 898.9 kilometres squared. Figure

1 indicates the location and boundaries of Sangre Grande.

The Municipality is largely rural in character with 41 communities which are located

along the major arterial network and at their main intersections. The Region can be

divided into seven socio-economic spheres (Figure 3), namely:

The Town of Sangre Grande (Sangre Grande Proper) which is the central

node, in terms of being a hub and business district for most of the

12

Municipality lying to the east of Valencia, and to the south, east and

northeast;

Greater Sangre Grande made up of the seven communities surrounding the

town of Sangre Grande, and Coal Mine, Sangre Chiquito, Turure, Maraj Hill,

Guaico ,Oropouche and Cunaripo;

M2M communities which comprise 15 communities to the northeast, from

Matura and then along the coast to Matelot, also engaged in agriculture,

fishing and more recently in eco-tourism;

The conurbation of Valencia, which is oriented to the East-West Corridor.

Melajo and the remote Northern Range community of Cumaca form part of

this sub-region;

Greater Tamana which is made up of the southern communities undulating

towards the lower reaches of the Central Range of Trinidad and northern to

the EMR, engaged in agriculture, and other rural pursuits;

Manzanilla comprising four communities to the east and southeast of the

Sangre Grande town centre, engaged in agriculture and fishing and strung out

along the Main Road heading east and then southeast to Mayaro and to

Biche; and

Fishing Pond/North Manzanilla comprising four communities to the east of the

town of Sangre Grande engaged mainly in agriculture, fishing and ecotourism

activities.

13

Figure 3: The Sub-Regions and Communities of Sangre Grande

14

Topography and Drainage

The Municipality of Sangre Grande falls within three of the five physiographic zones

of Trinidad, namely the Northern Range, the Northern Basin, and the Central Range.

The Northern Range is the prominent landform in North Sangre Grande, is an

extension of the Southern American Andean Mountain System. Some of the highest

peaks within the Range found in the Sangre Grande Municipality are El Cerro Del

Oropouche rising to 658 metres and Zapaya at 374 metres. Both the Caroni and

North Oropouche Rivers which drain the Northern and Central Ranges through a

series of tributaries, form part of the Sangre Grande Region. A significant proportion

of the Municipality falls within the Northern Basin, extending from the foothills of the

Northern Range to those of the Central Range, consisting of the floodplains and

alluvial flats of Oropouche River system and the Northern Terraces and Las Lomas

Peneplain. The remaining sections of the Municipality form part of the Central Range

with its highest peaks reaching to 300 metres in the Montserrat District, 290 metres

at Mount Harris and 335 metres at Mount Tamara.

Geology and Geological Resources

The three main groups of geological materials found in the northern section of the

Municipality of Sangre Grande are metamorphic and sedimentary rocks (made up

essentially of schists, phyllites and limestones), and alluvial deposits. The only

igneous rocks observed in Trinidad are the volcanic, found exposed along the north

coast in the Sans Souci area. The North Basin and Central Range within the Sangre

Grande are mainly sedimentary in nature.

The main economic mineral resources within the Municipality are made up of veins of

blue and yellow limestone found in Northern Range; extensive deposits of the

"Melajo" and "Guanapo" gravels which occur from Wallerfield through to Valencia to

Matura; and quartzitic sands found throughout this Region including a valuable

deposit of silica sand at Matura which is used to manufacture glass. Sand and gravel

of various grades are quarried for use in the construction industry.

Soils and Land Capability

There are a high number of soil types per unit area within Sangre Grande with some

43 of the total 120 soil types found in Trinidad and Tobago occupying the Region.

The soils in Sangre Grande can be divided into three broad groups: soils of the

uplands; soils of the terraces and subsidiary ranges; and soils of the alluvial flats,

plains and valleys. The soils of the Northern Range are usually upland soils with free

internal drainage and small pockets of alluvial and terrace soils. Terrace soils

dominate as one moves from the foothills of the Northern Range to the Northern

Basin, while alluvial soils are found in deep bands along the rivers as they travel east

15

to the Atlantic. These soils have very poor internal drainage, are acidic and low in

plant nutrients.

The southern regions of the Municipality are dominated by the clayey upland soils

which have restricted internal drainage, ranging from being only slightly acidic to

moderately to strongly acidic. Some have good supply of nutrients. Clayey soils are

the main alluvial soil found along the banks of the northern tributaries of the North

Oropouche River, the southern tributaries draining the Central Range. These alluvial

soils have poor internal drainage, are acidic in nature with low to moderate supplies

of plant nutrients. Two hydromorphic soils with restricted internal drainage are found

in lower Manzanilla, while a sandy soil occupies the beachfront locations.

Most of the lands in Northern Range are classified as VII that is they are unsuitable

for agriculture due to very steep slopes and should remain in indigenous or forest

vegetation. At the north eastern tip of the Range from Sans Souci to Balandra, the

soils were classified between IV and VI which make them best suited for tree and

fruit crops or indigenous/forest vegetation. The terrace soils on the foothills and

flatlands north of the Oropouche River are classified as Class VI soils, that is, they

should be left under forest or indigenous growth. The alluvial soils along the

tributaries of the North Oropouche River and the upland soils in the Central Range

are the best agricultural soils in the Municipality ranging from Class II (north

tributaries of the North Oropouche River), Class III (the south tributaries) and Class

IV (upland soils in the Central Range, Cunaripo, Tamana, etc.).

Water Resources

Sangre Grande is one of the most important surface water sources for Trinidad and

so the protection of this Region is, therefore, vital and of strategic interest to the

country. The Caroni and North Oropouche Rivers are two major river systems which

drain the lands of the Northern Range and Northern Basin of Trinidad. They are

major overland sources of potable water and are important resources for agricultural

production, industrial activities and for recreational activities. Most of the Oropouche

River system is found in Sangre Grande. There are four major and seven minor

traditional aquifer systems in the Municipality. There is potential in the area for the

development of mega-watershed aquifers.

Coastal and Nearshore Resources

Coastal areas encompass both terrestrial and marine resources as well as

ecosystems lying at the land-sea interface such as river deltas, wetlands, beaches

and dunes, lagoons, estuaries, coral reefs and offshore embankments. In total,

Trinidad has 420 kilometres of coastline3 of which 24 percent (or 101 kilometres) is

3 As quoted by United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation – Fisheries and Aquaculture Department.

16

found within the Sangre Grande Municipality. However, only a small portion of the

population of the Municipality lives on the coast. There are nine wetlands in the

Sangre Grande Municipality; the two of note are the North Oropouche and a small

section of the Nariva Swamp.

The North Coast consists essentially of a series of cliffs and headlands interspersed

with small bays, some of which are inaccessible by land. In all there are 14 such

small bays along the North Coast of Sangre Grande; among the more famous are

Matelot Bay, Grande Riviere Bay, Sans Souci Bay, Toco Bay and Salybia Bay. The

vistas along the North Coast make it a location of appreciable aesthetical value. The

East Coast is less precipitous and the headlands and bays are smaller and more

numerous. The East Coast is also spectacular and varied with three main stretches of

low coast separated by Manzanilla Point and Radix Point.

Biological Resources and Biodiversity

A significant proportion of the country‟s biodiversity is found in Sangre Grande. More

than 40 percent of the land area is protected by legislation. There are some 18

protected areas in the Region representing various ecosystems. One notable forest

type found extensively in east Trinidad, with one location in Sangre Grande (near

Matura), is the mora forest, which is dominated largely by Mora excelsa. In addition,

the Municipality is home to some 15 of the country‟s endemic plant species. In

addition, the Region is home to many bird species, including the Trinidad Piping

Guan (Pawi or Pipile pipile). The Nariva Swamp has the most varied vegetation of all

wetlands in Trinidad and Tobago, with distinct zones of swamp forest, palm swamp,

herbaceous swamp and mangrove woodlands. The Nariva Swamp is a critical habitat

for the manatee (sea cow) and several species of waterfowls. The Region‟s beaches

are nesting sites for the endangered and protected Leatherback turtles (Dermochelys

Coriacea).

Only one coral reef can be described in Trinidad and that is Salybea Reef in Toco.

Fisheries are an important source of livelihood for many coastal communities and

this is so for coastal communities of Sangre Grande. On the Northeast coast, sea

grass communities can be found at Salybia.

Hazard Susceptibility

Sangre Grande, like the rest of Trinidad and Tobago, is subject to a number of

disasters, including tropical storms and hurricanes, flooding, earthquakes, forest

fires, storm surge and tsunamis, mud volcanoes, and chemical emergencies. The

Region is particularly vulnerable to land slippage, flooding and high winds. Areas

along the Oropouche River and tributaries in the Tamana area are most prone to

flooding. Soil erosion and massive land movement are also major occurrences and as

a result landslip damage is common along major access roads – Naparima/Mayaro

17

Road and the Cunapo Southern Main Road. In addition, coastal erosion is a

significant problem along the entire coast, but is particularly worrisome along the

North Coast.

Socioeconomic Dimensions

Population and Labour Force

According to the 2000 Central Statistical Office (CSO) Community Register, the

population of the Municipality was at 65,807 persons, or just 5.21 percent of the

population of Trinidad and Tobago in 2000. Table 1 shows the distribution of

population and households across the Municipality. Most of the population is located

in the town of Sangre Grande (27.59 percent) and Valencia (12.4 percent). All other

communities account for less than 10 percent. Except for the Sangre Grande town

itself, the Municipality had a density of under 250 persons per square kilometre at

Census 2000.

Table 1: Sangre Grande Population Statistics by Community

Community No. of House holds

Population No. of Dwelling

Units

Community Share of

Total Municipality

Ratio of Households to Dwelling

Units

Both Sexes

Male Female %

Male %

Female

Anglais Settlement

105 367 183 184 50 50 118 0.56 89.0

Balandra 43 172 93 79 54 46 101 0.26 42.6

Biche 36 157 79 78 50 50 85 0.24 42.4

Brooklyn Settlement

69 303 166 137 55 45 92 0.46 75.0

Caigual 95 344 174 170 51 49 146 0.52 65.1

Carmichael 125 449 242 207 54 46 54 0.68 231.5

Coal Mine 481 1,848 941 907 51 49 535 2.81 89.9

Coryal 269 1,208 658 550 54 46 288 1.84 93.4

Cumaca 26 117 60 57 51 49 38 0.18 68.4

Cumana 344 1,146 618 528 54 46 436 1.74 78.9

Cumuto 906 3,625 1851 1774 51 49 979 5.51 92.5

Cunaripo 479 1,999 1014 985 51 49 520 3.04 92.1

Fishing Pond 699 2,744 1408 1336 51 49 733 4.17 95.4

Four Roads-Tamana

179 666 332 334 50 50 195 1.01 91.8

Grand Riviere 116 334 184 150 55 45 161 0.51 72.0

Guaico 793 3,043 1517 1526 50 50 762 4.62 104.1

18

Table 1: Sangre Grande Population Statistics by Community

Community No. of House holds

Population No. of Dwelling

Units

Community Share of

Total Municipality

Ratio of Households to Dwelling

Units

Both Sexes

Male Female %

Male %

Female

Guatopajaro 115 432 228 204 53 47 129 0.66 89.1

Howsen Village

130 498 258 240 52 48 156 0.76 83.3

L'Anse Noire 130 498 258 240 52 48 147 0.76 88.4

Mahoe 23 75 45 30 60 40 56 0.11 41.1

Manzanilla 586 2,159 1146 1013 53 47 682 3.28 85.9

Maraj Hill 349 1,445 724 721 50 50 384 2.20 90.9

Matelot 151 523 293 230 56 44 208 0.79 72.6

Matura 383 1,445 753 692 52 48 436 2.20 87.8

Melajo 134 479 264 215 55 45 158 0.73 84.8

Mission 75 288 153 135 53 47 117 0.44 64.1

Monte Video 42 153 85 68 56 44 66 0.23 63.6

Morin Bay 86 318 171 147 54 46 103 0.48 83.5

North Manzanilla

103 301 157 144 52 48 138 0.46 74.6

Oropuche 418 1,720 895 825 52 48 494 2.61 84.6

Plum Mitan 398 1,575 852 723 54 46 445 2.39 89.4

Rampanalgas 87 387 203 184 52 48 143 0.59 60.8

Salybia Village

61 224 129 95 58 42 103 0.34 59.2

Sans Souci 163 535 309 226 58 42 199 0.81 81.9

Sangre Chiquito

783 3,248 1619 1629 50 50 816 4.94 96.0

Sangre Grande

4,669 18,157 9116 9041 50 50 4947 27.59 94.4

Tamana 399 1,598 828 770 52 48 435 2.43 91.7

Toco 343 1,133 585 548 52 48 458 1.72 74.9

Tompire 46 148 85 63 57 43 61 0.22 75.4

Turure 417 1,730 886 844 51 49 435 2.63 95.9

Valencia 2,127 8,173 4193 3980 51 49 2186 12.42 97.3

Socially Displaced Persons

0 43 41 2 95 5 0 0.07 0.0

Total 16,983 65,807 33,796

32,011 18,745

Source: Community Register 2000, CSO

19

The labour statistics collected as part of the 2000 Population and Housing Census

showed that the municipal labour force is made up principally of agricultural workers

and workers in elementary occupations, together accounting for over 40 percent of

the workforce. Data also suggest a high dependency ratio among the population: one

in three persons worked in the Municipality.

Housing and Living Conditions

Most accommodation units in the Municipality are single family residences, however,

housing in the Municipality ranges from elite accommodation, mainly holiday homes

in the certain sections of the coastline to very poor squalid conditions in squatter

settlements and remote communities. Nonetheless, dilapidated housing and the need

for community upgrading are clearly evident in more rural areas. There are also

some locations where agricultural lands have been subdivided for residential

purposes without securing the necessary approval from the TCPD, and the

appropriate infrastructural development required for housing development.

One aspect of housing conditions that attests to problems of quality is access to

potable water. Some communities remain severely underserved in this regard,

particularly communities south of EMR. In these areas there is greater reliance on

truck-borne supplies and rainwater harvesting and so households in these affected

communities have greater responsibility for management of their water supply.

The Municipality has been among the poorest in the country based on data on

poverty for the last forty years. The three poorest communities in the Municipality

were among the first ten of poor communities in the country. Moreover, half of the

communities were in the first 100 of over 400 communities in Trinidad: in other

words, in the bottom 25 percent or 20 percent of the country. While 16.7 percent of

the national population was poor in 2005, in the Sangre Grande Municipality, 39.1

percent of the population was poor4.

Land Use and Economic Activity

Most of the land in the Region is undeveloped, being under either forest cover or

agriculture. The forested lands, the rivers and the beaches form the base for leisure,

recreational and tourism activities for residents and visitors to the Municipality. There

are numerous small recreational beaches from Toco to Matelot on the north coast,

and from Manzanilla to Galera Point on the east, which are utilised mainly by locals.

The best known beaches are at Balandra, Grande Riviere, Manzanilla, Matura,

Rampanalgas, Salibea Bay, Salybia, and Sans Souci. Natural watercourses also

4 Assessment of Living Conditions of Trinidad and Tobago, 2005. Prepared by Kairi Consultants Limited on behalf of

the Ministry of Social Development.

20

provide recreational outlets for significant numbers of persons who frequent the

Valencia, Matura, Sans Souci, and Shark Rivers on weekends and public holidays.

Turtle watching has developed into a significant activity on those beaches that are

used as nesting grounds by turtles. Ecotourism is emerging as an important industry

for communities in the Northeast and East - M2M, Fishing Pond/North Manzanilla and

Manzanilla.

Aside from recreation, some of the Region‟s beaches also function as landing sites for

fishers in Balandra, Cumana, Grande Riviere, Manzanilla, Matelot, Sans Souci and

Toco. Agriculture is the predominant land use in the southern one-third of the region.

The traditional cash crops of cocoa and coffee, despite their decline over the years,

still play a very important part in this sector. Large acreages are also devoted to

coconuts, citrus, plantains, bananas, mangoes, vegetables, and root crops including

cassava, dasheen, and yams. Rice production takes place in the Manzanilla and Plum

Mitan areas. Areas like Oropouche and Fishing Pond are used extensively for

vegetable production. Other important farming activities include livestock rearing

(cattle farming in Valencia and poultry production in Cumuto/Tamana) and

beekeeping.

Conservation is a major land use in the area with over 40 percent of the land under

statutory protection. Quarrying also takes up an appreciable amount of land space

with extensive areas of Valencia and Turure being exploited. Water production is

another important economic activity.

Built development is mainly residential with a small amount of Office,

Trade/Commercial, Tourism, and Institutional activity. There is no industrial

development of any note in the Region. Data on establishments collected by the CSO

show that there was a major increase in the number of business establishments in

the Municipality between 2000 and 2001, from 485 to 799. Over the period 2001 to

2007, the number rose less dramatically and stabilised at around 900 over the period

2005 to 2007 reaching 907 in 2007. Most of these are located in, or in proximity to,

the town of Sangre Grande. Figures 4 and 5 show the land use patterns of the town

of Sangre Grande and the Municipality.

Transportation

There are seven main roads servicing the Sangre Grande Region which give access

to all of the key population and activity centres. Secondary roads serve as

distributors/collectors connecting activity centres to the main roads, or as linkages

between two Main Roads. In this region, they also serve as local access roads. They

vary in width and surface quality.

21

Figure 4: Land Use in Sangre Grande Town and Valencia

(based on Land Use Surveys)

22

Figure 5: Generalised Land Use and Major Committed Developments

Source: MLG Database, TCPD Policy Map and Registers, EMA, Satellite Imagery, Field Surveys

23

Physical and Social Infrastructure

The Municipality is served by a range of social facilities and services that are

distributed across its geographic area and which bear close relation to the quality of

life that is experienced by residents. Despite the presence of such resources, some

critical infrastructure and facilities are limited at the community level, while

maintenance of these facilities is a critical issue in others. Critical among these is

drainage, which because of its inadequacy has increased and compounded the

incidence of flooding. Waste collection and disposal, another critical concern, are

performed mainly by contractors on behalf of the Municipal Corporation. The move

towards integrated waste management approach means that the Municipality must

improve the efficiency of such services, ensure that waste hauling trucks reach their

final disposal destination and better manage faecal waste facility.

There are primary and secondary health care facilities in the Municipality with a

hospital in the town of Sangre Grande and nine primary health centres located

throughout the municipality. The provision of primary and secondary education is

considered to be adequate, but there is need for facilities to adequately address

post-secondary and tertiary education. There is also a need for proper managed and

maintained sporting and leisure facilities as residents adopt healthier lifestyles. The

provision of sporting facilities must go hand in hand with the delivery of services to

encourage and facilitate greater participation in the sector.

SWOT Analysis

The SWOT Analysis was informed by the survey as well as by consultations with

stakeholders including the administrative and political arms of the Municipal

Corporation and public, private and NGO sector agencies operating the Region. The

results of the SWOT Analysis are summarised in Table 2.

In order to come up with a development concept that is sustainable and appropriate

to the needs of the people of the region, the Plan would need to build upon the

strengths and opportunities and convert them into development potential, at the

same time as it addresses the weaknesses and threats.

Table 2: Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats

Strengths Weaknesses

Sangre Grande’s position as the main market town

and service centre for north-eastern Trinidad

Location with regard to the economic heartland of

the country

Strategic location of the town of Sangre Grande as

the key element in the Northeast Triangle of

Wallerfield, Valencia, and Sangre Grande

Lack of tourism infrastructure

Good Eco and Resort Tourism base and potential Abandoned farms

Prolific destination for the nesting of the leatherback Largely artisanal fisheries sector

24

Table 2: Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats

sea turtles

Established and pro-active CBOs Impact of quarrying on the environment

Extensive areas of good agricultural lands Poverty

Strong agricultural tradition Illiteracy

Established fishing industry Shortage of job opportunities

Extensive forest lands with legal protection Deficiencies in social infrastructure

Well developed quarrying industry Narrow and poorly surfaced roads in some areas

Extensive expanse of flat land Traffic Congestion

Existing commercial and growing industrial base Poor drainage infrastructure

Availability of lower cost housing Lack of incentives to attract businesses

Water resources Poor water supply and distribution infrastructure

Fair road network Unbalanced regional growth leading to rural to urban

migration

Good telephone network

Peaceful region with little violent crime

Competitive wages

Adequate supply of electricity

Opportunities Threats

Maximisation of Eco-Tourism potential Loss of good agricultural lands to built development

Revival of agriculture Overfishing by large trawlers off east and north

coasts

Modernisation of fishing industry Land degradation from quarrying

Selective exploitation of forest products Out-migration of population

Development of Toco Ferry Terminal Pollution

Spin-offs from e-TecK and UTT Competition from other Corporations

Development of Sangre Grande into a modern

Commercial and Administrative Centre

Lack of funding

Establishment of an incentive programme to attract

businesses

Lack of strict legislation or little policing of it with

regard to conservation and protective measures

From stakeholder and public consultations and based on the SWOT Analysis

undertaken for the Region, certain development issues have been identified at this

stage. The major issues that have been identified are as follows:

Social Issues

These revolve around the fact that Sangre Grande is the poorest region in the

nation. There is a greater percentage of persons living below the poverty line than in

any other region of the country. The associated issues relate to such areas as

illiteracy, underdevelopment of the human resource base, an untrained workforce,

rural to urban migration, youth (under)development, housing shortage, squatting,

inadequate health services, vagrancy, and increasing crime.

25

Economic Issues

The economic fortunes of the region which in the past were based principally on

agriculture and fishing have suffered greatly from the decline in these two sectors.

Within recent times, tourism, and in particular eco-tourism, have emerged as a

potential area for development. However, the Region continues to experience high

levels of unemployment, underemployment, and the scarcity of financial resources.

Other related issues are unbalanced regional growth, loss of agricultural land to

housing and other uses, under-development of the tourism sector and its base

including the beaches, lack of funding for projects, lack of meaningful business

partnerships between the public and private sector, and the inability of the SGRC to

generate funds of its own. It is necessary to find ways to fast track Tourism and

Fisheries infrastructure and to treat with the economic livelihood in isolated villages

and, hence, control rural urban migration.

Environmental Issues

Within recent years environmental concerns have surfaced because of the growing

awareness of matters environmental. Burgesses are concerned about the

environmental degradation taking place particularly in the quarrying and logging

industries. Quarrying has left giant holes filled with water which not only pose great

risk to humans traversing and living in the areas but also leave the vicinity scarred

and unproductive. There are areas where logging has been done in an unsustainable

manner. There is an urgent need to bring these industries under control.

The Region represents a major part of the country‟s biodiversity and therefore

addressing the conservation needs of this Region is critical. In addition, the

promotion of environmental community-based environmental stewardship is also

important and so there is need for Government (both local and central) to work

together with the Region in establishing sustainable and viable models that ensure

the livelihood needs of communities and environmental health. Other issues of

concern include waste management control, pollution, and littering. Reducing risk to

humans due to natural and other disaster is an issue which ought to be addressed.

Infrastructural

The lack of infrastructural development, in particular, the poor roads, is viewed as

retarding economic development. The upgrading of agricultural access roads is

considered as a key ingredient to the revival of the agricultural sector and ultimately,

the wider economic development of the region. There is also widespread flooding

related to poor drainage systems in the region. There appears to be a grey area

26

relating to the fact that the MALMR may be responsible for upgrading some of the

agricultural access roads, and the Drainage Division of the MOWT for the major

drainage systems, while the SGRC is responsible for the remainder.

Public transportation systems are also inadequate. Traffic congestion in Sangre

Grande and Valencia is seen as being symptomatic of the need for reviewing the

urban road structures to address this issue. Garbage collection and disposal

infrastructure also require attention.

Administrative

These issues relate to deficiencies in the dispensation of government services. They

range from what is considered to be the policies of the TCPD to shortcomings in the

SGRC itself including staff shortages, lack of training for Corporation personnel, lack

of resources and equipment for staff to function effectively, perceived political

partisanship, and lack of coordination and cooperation between government

agencies. A major administrative issue relates to the extent of unauthorised

development and quarrying that takes place in the region and the inability or

unwillingness of the State to monitor or enforce against the illegal activities.

27

Strategic Framework

In developing this strategy for the future development of the Municipality, it is

important to put the development of Sangre Grande in the context of the national

development as well as the development of East Trinidad, which also includes the

Mayaro/Rio Claro Municipality. The Sangre Grande Municipality will have a major

influence on the development of economic, social, cultural, and environment

development of the wider East Coast.

Sangre Grande’s Role in National Spatial Development

The National Physical Development Plan of 1984 is the sole statutory instrument at

the time guiding spatial development at the national level. The Plan identified the

town of Sangre Grande as one of the four proposed Growth Centres, along

with Point Fortin, Couva-Point Lisas, and Mayaro-Galeota, and therefore the

expansion of industrial estates was expected to be an integral part of this process.

The development of housing was also proposed for the centre along with the

development of appropriate physical and social infrastructure. The population of the

Northeast Region was expected to increase, generated by the development of the

Sangre Grande growth centre and its suitability for accommodating overspill from the

Capital Region.

Also identified as a sub-regional centre, the town of Sangre Grande was earmarked

as an important area with an expanded economic base and improvements in its

attractiveness for settlement, thus providing employment and offering service

facilities. As a town, Sangre Grande was considered as having several factors which

could be exploited, including a favourable geographical location in relation to Port-of-

Spain and the major transportation lines in the Northeast and to the Southeast; its

function as the major administrative, commercial and residential centre in the

28

Northeast; a significant amount of developable land within its immediate environs;

and a hinterland rich in agricultural and forestry potential and containing high quality

sands and gravels.

While Toco was designated as a district centre to receive some level of facilities and

services, the wider Municipality was zoned to include extensive areas under

agriculture, conservation, quarrying, and resort development among others. The

Northeast of the Municipality and East Nariva were zoned for agriculture, forestry

and rural development, including the implementation of reforestation schemes in

suitable areas. The North and Northeast Coasts, and the Manzanilla-Nariva Swamp

area were earmarked for the development of resort complexes. Moreover, areas in

the Northern Range and other upland areas within the Municipality were designated

as conservation.

A National Conceptual Development Plan (NCDP) prepared in 1999 ostensibly to

update the planning framework of the NPDP is also relevant. More recently, a NSS

was developed to guide the spatial development of Trinidad and Tobago to the year

2020. These frameworks provide guidance to the role of Sangre Grande in the

national spatial system.

Under the NSS, Sangre Grande and Toco were classified as Rural Centres that will

contain between 10,000 to 15,000 persons and that will provide a range of social

and community services, facilities, and some employment opportunities. For Sangre

Grande this is a downgrading of its role stipulated in the NPDP as a Growth

Centre/Sub-regional Centre. The NSS also placed emphasis on environmental

protection that included protection of wetlands, forests, biodiversity, watersheds,

hillside development, heritage resources, water pollution, ecosystems and coral

reefs/sand dunes, all of which are represented in the Municipality of Sangre Grande.

Development Goal, Strategic Vision and Direction

Development Goal

The goal of the Sangre Grande Municipality RDP is to ensure successful regional

development resulting in the creation of sustainable communities and a high

quality of life for all burgesses. It is derived from the Vision 2020 Draft National

Strategic Plan which provides the framework for the development of Trinidad and

Tobago to 2020. Sustainable communities here are defined as those in which

residents are empowered to gain and retain access to their needs for adequate

housing, social facilities, physical infrastructure, recreation, employment and

commercial opportunities either within or in close proximity to the community

without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs5.

5 as taken from the Vision 2020 Regional Development and Sustainable Communities Sub-committee Report

29

Vision

The Strategic Vision on which the RDP is to be based was determined from the

Participatory Visioning Exercise carried out specifically for the purpose of determining

the manner in which the stakeholders see the Region developing in the future. The

agreed vision is outlined below:

The Municipality of Sangre Grande will create a high quality of life, free of crime,

and, supported by equitably distributed social and infrastructural services to all its burgesses, will lay a sustainable platform for a rejuvenated agriculture, agri-

business, fisheries, distribution, commerce and ecotourism, capable of providing rewarding lives to all communities, and of encouraging the fullest participation of all, and especially of its young people, with Sangre Grande, the town, becoming a fitting

centre of this progressive Municipality.

Development Objectives

To attain its Vision, the Municipality of Sangre Grande will pursue 12 broad

development objectives:

1. Poverty reduction (individual, household and community);

2. Creation of jobs within the Municipality;

3. Development of public-private sector partnerships to facilitate the economic,

social, and physical transformation of the Municipality;

4. Equitable provision of basic social and physical infrastructure and amenities to

all communities;

5. Provision of a comprehensive network of physical infrastructure to foster and

facilitate economic development within the Municipality;

6. Provision of affordable and good quality housing at safe locations;

7. Sustainable management of its natural resources, including the optimum and

safe use of its agricultural lands and eco-tourism resources;

8. Greater integration of the Municipality;

9. Development of functional and aesthetically appealing urban and rural spaces,

that are distinct, safe, well-connected, adaptable, manageable, and easy on

the environment;

10. Reduction of risks associated with climate change and natural disasters within the Municipality; and

11. Effective municipal management.

30

Development Strategy

The Selection Process

The option for future development of Sangre Grande was born out of the RDP

participatory process and the Integrated Development Planning (IDP) process which

has taken place in the Municipality over the last two years, the result of which is the

Cabinet-approved Ten Point Plan and the formulation of an Integrated Development

Plan for sustainable development of the Region. The IDP process involved over 30

fora were held throughout the Region, with the conduct of a total of 20 community

outreach meetings in an effort to identify issues and workable recommendations

from burgesses on the future development of the Municipality and districts. Coming

on the heels of this initial process, the RDP process was modified from its original

methodology of conducting a second public consultation to evaluate the alternative

scenarios generated and the selection of a preferred scenario upon which the RDP

would have been based. Instead the Preferred Development Strategy was formulated

based on the IDP and the expressed wishes of stakeholders during the first public

consultation and the more than 20 stakeholders discussions held during the RDP

planning process.

A Balanced Growth Strategy

The basis for future sustainable development of Sangre Grande lies in the promotion

and support of balanced growth across the various sub-regions of the Municipality.

The Development Strategy for Sangre Grande promotes greater spatial equity

through a more polycentric and integrated approach so that development will be

distributed across the Municipality, but with emphasis on expanding the role and

functions of the town of Sangre Grande to be become a major growth pole in East

Trinidad. At the same time greater investment will be encouraged and focussed at

the various sub-regions, not only through the State and private sector, but mainly

through the efforts of residents in the sub-regions who have and are expected to

continue to play a dominant role in the rejuvenation and development of their

communities and the nodal centres – Toco, Valencia and Cumuto. Greater

investment in these identified centres should improve their competitiveness, their

ability to provide a better level of socio-economic activity and services and improve

the quality of life for residents, including those in remote locations.

Broad Spatial Context

Spatial policy for the Municipality recognises the wider context within which it exists.

The town of Sangre Grande is one of the most significant centres in eastern Trinidad

and exerts a major influence on the rest of the Municipality and the Municipality of

Mayaro/ Rio Claro. It is a transportation hub for people travelling to the north to the

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more rural communities on the northeast coast and to the south to Cumuto, Rio

Claro, Mayaro, Talparo or to the west to Arima and further afield to Port-of-Spain.

The extension of the CRH would make it easier to get into and out of the

Municipality. The establishment of the campus of the University of Trinidad and

Tobago (UTT) at O‟Meara and the coming on stream of e TecK‟s Tamana Park means

that both facilities can be reached within 15 minutes from of Sangre Grande town

centre when the extension of the CRH is complete and this would add to the

conditions precedent to the Municipality‟s readiness for development.

In terms of size and services, the town of Sangre Grande is a significant centre

offering services to residents in Mayaro/Rio Claro, particularly in respect of

secondary health care since the Sangre Grande Hospital is at the pinnacle of the

Eastern Regional Health District. Residents of Mayaro/Rio Claro are also known to

view the town of Sangre Grande as the locus of educational opportunities. The

placement of strategic social facilities in Municipality of Sangre Grande would make it

attractive to a wider catchment beyond its boundaries and its sphere of influence

would be even greater with an expanded CRH and the development of a ring road

around the town of Sangre Grande.

The Northeast Coast leads the way in terms of ecotourism and community-led

tourism enterprise. Already the model centred on a partnering of the public sector

and community monitoring of turtle nesting and watching which began in Matura has

been adopted by other communities in the Region and elsewhere and has extended

to other utilisation of other neighbouring natural resources. The positioning of

Northeast Trinidad for ecotourism, recreation, scenic touring and leisure activities is

in keeping with proposals for the development of the Northeast Trinidad Anchor

Coast Resort Development area which now extends beyond the original proposed

zone of Matura to Toco to as far as Matelot. Such an anchor along with the

development of the East Coast Scenic Corridor, which can extend from Toco through

the sections of the Northeast Anchor, along the Atlantic Coast to the southeast

Trinidad at Guayaguayare, would position the entire eastern coast as the major

destination for nature based tourism pursuits and further strengthen the

development of the Municipality. The development of Arima as an Eco-Cultural

Centre and the development of Aripo Savannas Visitor Centre and community

tourism ventures in Tamana area would further help to booster this position.

Population Dynamics of Sangre Grande

The rate of growth of the population in the Municipality was 5.01 percent between

1990 and 2000, which is slightly higher than the national average. This can be

attributed to the continued expansion of housing development in the Region, and to

some extent to an increase in informal settlements. However, there has been

noticeable outward migration of residents in 20-30 year cohort who upon completion

of their schooling and in the absence of employment and growth in the area, are

drawn to other areas in the society and economy in search of a better future than

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has been offered by Sangre Grande. The population projections provided in Table 3

assumes a reversal of this trend of out-migration. It is further assumed increases in

population in the Municipality will also come from the spill-over of the population

from the highly concentrated municipalities of Arima and Tunapuna/Piarco, with

people seeking relatively cheaper accommodation in Valencia and the town of Sangre

Grande, which is within easy reach by public transport to Arima, Tunapuna/Piarco

and Port-of-Spain. In this regard, the Municipality of Sangre Grande will need to

provide services to formal residents, many of whom find employment elsewhere. The

Development Strategy makes provision for the projected 2020 population of 80,000,

which is around 14,363 more than the 2000 figure.

Table 3: Distribution of Population by Communities 2000 and 2020, and Incremental

Population, based on the Balanced Growth Scenario

Sub-region

2000 2020 Incremental

Population

Popn No of Hhlds

No of Persons/

Hhlds Popn

No of Hhlds

No of Persons/

Hhlds Popn

No of Hhlds

Sangre Grande Proper

18,157 4,669 3.9 22,470 5,405 3.9 4,313 736

Greater Sangre Grande

11,465 2,821 4.1 13,485 3,237 4.1 2,020 416

M2M 7,276 2,072 3.8 8,508 2,187 3.8 1,232 115

Valencia 8,769 2,287 3.8 12,094 2,635 3.8 3,325 348

Greater Tamana

10,360 2,601 4 12,352 2,936 4 1,992 335

North Manzanilla/ Fishing Pond

5,876 1,526 3.8 6,664 1,730 3.8 788 204

Manzanilla 3,734 984 3.8 4,427 1,129 3.8 693 145

TOTAL 65,637 16,760 3.9 80,000 19,261 3.9 14,363 2,299

The Overall Strategy

The Sangre Grande RDP seeks to provide for a future wellbeing of residents and to

facilitate sustainable development of the Municipality as the preferred place for

burgesses and visitors to live, work and recreate in a high-quality environment that

is in keeping with national strategic development goals. It is a place where enhanced

physical environment will be created in a sustainable manner to support the needs of

the residents and visitors to the Municipality, including the rationalisation and

upgrading of the town of Sangre Grande as a growth pole and the development and

rejuvenation of other identified centres which in the past have been neglected.

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As a the growth pole emphasis will be placed on strengthening the economic base

and increasing employment opportunities and choices in the town of Sangre Grande

and within the Municipality as a whole; enhancing the integrity of the natural

environment as store house of the country‟s biodiversity and water production area

is important. Equally important to the development of the Municipality would be the

improvement of the delivery of transportation and other physical and social

infrastructure and services in a balanced and equitable manner. The implementation

of future activities under this Plan will be guided by the principles of sustainable

development and the recognition that corrective action is needed against global

climate change and dynamic international economic and financial situation.

The overall strategy, therefore, is to:

a. Encourage investment in resort, eco- and cultural tourism and other

sustainable economic activities such as would promote and conserve the

natural and cultural assets of the Region, and broaden its economic base.

b. Encourage and facilitate the revitalisation of the agriculture sector through

the upgrade of designated food basket areas, and strengthening research and

development, marketing and sectoral linkages.

c. Create a node of industrial development in northeast Trinidad giving

particularly attention to agro- and fish-processing.

d. Strict monitoring and regulation of the quarry industry in keeping with the

operation of a modern open-pit quarry industry observing best practices and

making a meaningful contribution to the development of the Sangre Grande

Municipality.

e. Provide and facilitate the housing needs of the projected population of 80,000

persons by the year 2020, including provisioning for the complementary

infrastructural and social services needs, and the implementation of standards

to guide the development of visitor accommodations and facilities.

f. Improve the social and physical infrastructure systems and facilities that are

accessible to all to serve the residents of the Municipality.

g. Protect the open character and aesthetics of the Municipality including the

protection of landscapes, open spaces, architectural, archaeological and

cultural heritage and material assets of the Municipality, ensuring that future

developments pay attention to the preservation of these areas and structures.

h. Upgrade and improve the functional efficiency and aesthetic appeal of the

town centres, key public spaces, and scenic routes in the Municipality.

i. Encourage greater participation and involve the municipal community in the

decision-making process on planning, environmental and municipal

management issues.

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j. Develop a comprehensive regional spatial planning framework that combines

conservation, economic, social, recreational, and leisure uses, through

vigorous land use planning controls.

The Strategy assumes a high level of investment and participation in the

development process on the part of the private sector. Community-oriented

development and small business activity will also be encouraged. As well, local

government reform is expected to provide the SGRC with a higher staff level,

funding, and operational efficiency to coordinate the development process.

Spatial Development Framework

The policies shape the broad spatial development framework shown in Figure 6. The

framework gives a guide to the allocation of the land in the Municipality and the

treatment of major features to 2020 as follows:

Continued residential development in most of the Region to accommodate the

80,000 persons who are expected to reside there by 2020, with significant

expansion of Valencia, Sangre Grande Proper, Greater Sangre Grande and

Cumuto, and/or consolidation in Toco and along the Corridors;

Small resort/ecotourism development in the Northeast, East and Southern

sections of the municipality, most of which are community led;

Agro- and fish-processing in Greater Sangre Grande and other agro-based

locations;

Expansion of the CRH and the development of Sangre Grande Town Ring

Road and upgrading of the secondary road network;

Development of sports stadium and indoor facilities in Sangre Grande Proper;

Upgrading and enhancement of the Sangre Grande as the Municipal Centre,

and Toco, Cumuto, and Valencia as the major town centres of the

Municipality;

Upgrading and development of the open and green spaces, and cultural

assets of the Municipality;

Protecting key conservation areas throughout the Municipality, including the

18 protected areas – Matura National Park, Aripo Savannas Strict Nature

Reserve; and

Upgrading and improvement of social and physical infrastructure, including

public and protective services, throughout the Municipality.

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Figure 6: Land Use Proposals for the Municipality of Sangre Grande

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Thematic Policies and Proposals

Introduction

Discussions with various stakeholders in the Municipality, an examination of the

physical and socioeconomic environment, and the placement of the Region in the

context of Vision 2020 and other National Plans have led to the identification of

policies and proposals which will be the basis for economic and social development of

the Municipality over the next 10 years. The policies and proposals are covered

under nine development themes, namely:

1. Urban Design;

2. Environmental Management;

3. Economic Development;

4. Housing;

5. Social Services and Community Facilities;

6. Transportation;

7. Physical Infrastructure;

8. Institutional Strengthening; and

9. Municipal Management.

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Urban Design (UD)

Urban design policy for Sangre Grande can help not only to shape the quality of the

physical form of development but also influence its economic, social and

environmental impacts. Good urban design can ensure the development of

attractive, functional and adaptable places and structures, and is critical to achieving

sustainable development of the Municipality.

During the next 10 years and beyond the Municipality will be undergoing a period of

major development and regeneration as it realises its Strategic Vision. This

represents an opportunity for achieving quality urban design of its Municipal Centre,

main urban centres, rural communities, and landscaped environments. Therefore,

the development of an Urban Design Framework is necessary at this time to provide

broad urban design guidelines which can inform and guide the development of local

area development plans, local area transportation plans, sub-regional strategies and

programmes that can have a bearing on land use policies. Urban design treatment

for the SGRC must provide relevant direction with respect to the Region‟s rural and

urban communities. These broad Urban Design Policies and Proposals provided at the

thematic level are also reflected in the District Proposals that are articulated in the

following Chapter.

Urban Design Framework

Policy Formulation Context

Thematic Urban Design Policies and Proposals for the Sangre Grande Municipality

must be developed out of and build on the Broad Development Objectives of the Plan

(articulated in Chapter Three). The Urban Design Policies and Proposals will be used

by developers, planners and the planning approval agency in the preparation of

designs and in the evaluation process. They must be seen as guiding principles that

provide direction for the subsequent detailed urban design treatments that will be

prepared as part of future local area planning initiatives. Eventually, urban design

treatment must afford flexibility to cater to the range of conditions that would be

found in individual locations and sites. Although urban design is cross-cutting in

nature and therefore can be interpreted in several of the Plan‟s Broad Development

Objectives, Objective 10 specifically refers to the:

„Development of functional and aesthetically appealing urban and rural spaces that

are distinct, safe, well-connected, adaptable, manageable, and easy on the

environment.‟

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The formulation of urban design solutions in the Plan relates particularly to this

objective.

Socioeconomic Context

The urban design improvements will be through the enhancement of the functioning

and amenity value of the built and non-built environments that interface with one

another. Implicit in this arrangement is the cyclical relationships between elements

in the space economy where investment is required to facilitate urban design

improvements and these in turn will facilitate improvements to the local economy

through increases in property values and an upswing in economic activity across all

sectors.

Spatial Context

The urban design issues and solutions for the Municipality must be seen within the

context of the spatial framework that was detailed earlier in the Plan. Sangre Grande

is essentially comprised of lands of varying topography which includes forested

areas, active and abandoned agricultural lands and quarried lands, an established

main town centre, villages, ribbon settlements, and a rugged coastline of high

aesthetic and amenity value. Urban design treatment where it exists impacts upon

the variety of land uses in the Municipality, which are disaggregated to include areas

of commercial and industrial activity, transportation facilities, areas of residence and

recreation, parks, watercourses and other green areas within the public realm.

Summary of Major Issues

The major urban design issues identified earlier in the Plan may be summarised as

follows:

Weakness in legibility, definition and identification of communities and

districts;

Derelict appearance and decaying built form of some communities;

Inefficient movement characteristics and conflicts between pedestrian and

vehicular traffic, especially in Valencia and the town of Sangre Grande;

Inadequate and poor supply of public amenities within areas of built

development;

Inadequate and poor supply of safe, functional and attractive public spaces;

and

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Limited permeability and connectivity in many urban spaces and within the

„green‟ areas.

Policy Objective

The objective of the Urban Design Policies and Proposals is to promote and

facilitate good urban design by providing the context and guidelines within

which development in the Municipality will be encouraged and identifying

key urban design initiatives for public space which should be considered

over the next 10 years.

Urban Design Policies and Proposals

The following are the Sangre Grande Regional Urban Design Policies and Proposals.

UD POLICY-1: Clearly Defining Gateway Components to the Municipality, Urban Centres, Sub-regions and Communities

1. The introduction of gateway areas at the entrances to the Municipality and to

its major centres to assist in defining the sub-regions, towns and villages, in

shaping their image, and to indicate a sense of destination or arrival;

2. The use of distinctive and well landscaped entrance features at the gateways

that bear relation to the nature and character of the centre; and

3. The introduction of appropriate and attractively designed signage that

identifies all settlements and communities in the Municipality.

UD POLICY-2: Improving the Identification, Functioning and Visual Appeal of Commercial, Civic and Other Nodal Areas within Communities

1. The reinforcement of individual character of distinct areas in the Municipality;

2. The identification of core districts within urban and rural centres within which

comprehensive and integrated urban design treatment will be focused;

3. The provision and enhancement of permeability elements within centres

through improved pedestrian and vehicular linkages to facilitate quick, easy

and safe movement;

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4. The identification of derelict areas of built development within urban and rural

centres within which regeneration-type activities would be planned and

implemented;

5. The introduction of design guidelines, technical aid and financial assistance to

developers of properties along major streetscapes so as to allow for more

sensitive built form and more functional and appealing facades;

6. The provision of attractive, comfortable and convenient environments within

urban and rural core areas; and

7. The maintenance of the unique small-town character and ambience of the

smaller centre within the Municipality.

UD POLICY-3: Recognising and Enhancing Important Landmarks and Built Heritage Inventory

1. The creation of powerful landmarks within the Municipality for identity and

navigation;

2. The identification and conservation of sites and structures of historic and or

architectural significance; and

3. The incorporation of significant heritage structures into the enhancement

programme for town and community regeneration and revitalisation.

UD POLICY-4: Enhancing the Functional Capability and Amenity Value of Roadways and Streetscapes

1. The improvement to the geometry of roadways and paths to allow for

improvements in their functional capability;

2. The introduction of traffic calming techniques within existing and planned

urban and rural communities;

3. The provision of safe, convenient and attractive spaces for the movement of

persons and vehicles in the urban and rural cores;

4. The enhancement of the visual appeal of roadways and streetscapes as a

major part of the public realm in towns and villages by the removal of

overhead utility lines, the provision and widening of pedestrian sidewalks, the

removal of unnecessary signage, the introduction of tree species within the

right of way that relate to the particular communities and the provision of

street furniture including formal and informal seating; and

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5. The provision of specific guidelines with respect to on and off-street parking in

areas selected for more detailed urban design treatment in so far as this has

implications for the functioning and visual appeal of nodes and corridors of

commercial and civic significance.

UD POLICY-5: Creating a Network of Open Spaces Comprising, Parks, Paths, Forested Areas, Wetland Areas and Watercourses

1. The creation of a linked system of open spaces comprising parks, pedestrian

and bicycle trails, watercourses, wetlands, beaches and forested areas;

2. The protection of important vistas onto elements of the system of open

spaces, particularly with respect to the coastal environment; and

3. The protection of unique vistas relating to the experience of coconut

plantations along major roadways.

UD POLICY-6: Providing and Enhancing Pedestrian Paths and Walkways

1. The provision of well lit and attractively designed pedestrian sidewalks and

paths within urban and rural centres and communities, including core

commercial and civic areas;

2. The provision of well lit recreational trails within the rural landscape,

providing connection between communities and designated urban and rural

green areas and facilitating the creation of an interconnected system of open

spaces; and

3. The provision of dedicated bicycle paths across the Municipality as part of an

interlinked system of recreational paths and trails.

.

UD POLICY-7: Providing and Enhancing Public Open Spaces within Urban and Rural Communities

1. The upgrading of existing open spaces to allow for safe passive and active

recreation;

2. The provision of appropriate shade trees and landscaping within parks and

parkettes to yield functional and attractive open spaces;

3. The provision of appropriate lighting, pavilions, formal and informal seating

and welfare facilities in public open spaces; and

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4. The provision of safe and attractive passive urban parkettes that may include

bandstands and amphitheatres in close proximity to the core areas in existing

settlements.

UD POLICY-8: Enhancing the Functional Design and Visual Character of Industrial Areas

1. The provision and enhancement of landscaped compounds by the introduction

of perimeter berms and appropriate tree species to provide a visual buffer

that would also mitigate against air pollution; and

2. The enhancement of industrial car-parking lots by the grading and shaping of

lands, the introduction of hedges, berms and tree planting in interior aisles

and medians.

UD POLICY-9: Enhancing Existing Residential Areas

1. The incorporation of aesthetically designed gateway elements at the

entrances to existing and proposed residential neighbourhoods;

2. The provision of easily accessible passive and active recreational spaces in

keeping with the size of the residential area;

3. The provision of adequate sidewalks to cater to the needs of the residents;

4. The provision of well designed and safe neighbourhoods with attractive

streetscapes that include the introduction of shade trees within the road

reserve;

5. The provision of communities with good linkages to the key activity nodes and

a wider system of open spaces; and

6. The provision of appropriate social and educational facilities in close proximity

to residents.

UD POLICY-10: Creating Enhanced Recreational Resort Areas

1. The creation of dedicated public facilities for parking, vending and sea bathing

at prime coastal locations;

2. The establishment of improved design specifications for new multi-unit resort

developments to incorporate gateway elements, sensitively designed

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landscaping, maintenance of public access to the coastline, important vistas

and utilisation of enhanced improved architectural inputs; and

3. The improvement to the functioning and amenity value of existing and

proposed low-density resort areas in detached, semi-detached or two-storey

built form by the introduction of upgraded standards of design, maintenance,

security and safety, access and egress routes, and incorporating gateway

elements where practical.

UD POLICY-11: Identifying Keynote Initiatives

1. The following is a list of keynote initiatives within the Municipality that are

either currently identified for development or areas in need of significant

regeneration. These projects represent design opportunities:

a. Redevelopment of the Sangre Grande Municipal Centre;

b. Redevelopment of Major Urban Centres – Valencia, Toco, Cumuto;

c. Façade Rehabilitation Project;

d. Vision City;

e. Pueblo Nuevo;

f. Toco Port Development; and

g. Extension of the CRH.

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Environmental Management (EM)

Introduction

The residents of Sangre Grande often refer to their Municipality as the „Green Corner‟

or lungs of Trinidad and Tobago. The Region includes some of the country‟s main

protected areas and is home to a significant proportion of its biodiversity and

threatened species. For example, the Matura National Park has a good

representation of Mora forests and is also the home to several species that appear on

the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and

Flora (CITES), including orchids, the ocelot (Leopardus pardalis), the tayra (Eira

Barbara), the red howler monkey (Alouatta seniculus), the wild hog/quenk (Tayassu

tajacu), the matte (Tayassu tajacu), the pawi (Pipile pipile) and cage bird species

such as Bullfinch and Picoplat. Each year, the Region‟s surrounding waters and

beaches provide habitat to the leatherback turtle which is a key attraction for local

and foreign visitors. It is the abundance of this sea turtle population and others

which affords the Municipality the distinction of being the Premier Turtle Destination

of the World. It is these resources along with its forests, wildlife, beaches, rivers,

serenity and picturesque landscapes and seascapes as well as the friendliness of its

people which add to its potential as ecotourism destination and which drives the

community-led conservation and ecotourism initiatives noted within the Municipality.

As the Region shifts to a sustainable development paradigm, socioeconomic

development must be balanced and achieved without compromising this rich

biodiversity and the state of its natural resources. It is important to ensure the

continued prosperity of future generations and to secure the legacy of the present

generation as good stewards of the environment. The goal is embodied in Broad

Development Objectives 12 and 14 of the RDP which state:

Development Objective 12

Sustainable management of its natural resources, including the optimum and safe use of its agricultural lands and eco-tourism resources.

Development Objective 14

Reduction of risks due to climate change and natural

disasters within the Municipality.

As the Municipality seeks to create sustainable communities and a high quality of life

for its burgesses, Environmental Management Policies and Proposals are aimed

at:

1. Changing attitudes and behaviours and encouraging greater environmental

responsibility, and the promotion of sustainable environmental practices;

2. Conservation of the Municipality's non-renewable natural resources through:

a. Sustainable management of its protected areas and unique ecology;

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b. Sustainable management of existing and future quarries and

rehabilitation of abandoned ones;

c. Minimising the consumption of the remaining green spaces in the

Region;

d. Identification, recognition and preservation of the remaining large

tracts of agricultural lands in the Region; and

e. Promotion of and facilitating co-management and monitoring systems

where communities, their community-based organisations (CBOs) and

NGOs continue to play a significant role in the protection of the

Region‟s natural resources;

3. Identification, preservation and protection of the quality of local landscapes,

open spaces, historical, architectural, archaeological and cultural heritage of

Sangre Grande;

4. Minimising all forms of pollution and improvement of water quality of rivers,

streams, and other waterways including the effective management of

municipal waste, wastewater and stormwater control;

5. Reduction of environmental hazards and protection of people and property

from exposure to such hazards;

6. Promoting and formalising the inclusion of stakeholders in regional decision-

making and action; and

7. Addressing climate change in all aspects of regional development.

The overall thematic policies and proposals of the RDP seek to maintain a stable

natural resource base, while avoiding over-exploitation of renewable resource

systems or environmental sink functions, and allowing the utilisation of non-

renewable resources only to the extent that it does not adversely impact on them

thus allowing for the maintenance of biodiversity, atmospheric stability, and

undertaking other ecosystem functions6.

The Environmental Policies and Proposals, as stated herein for the Sangre Grande

Municipality, are largely set and guided by the various National Plans and Policies

referred to in Situational Reports 1 and 2 and by the expressed desires and vision of

the Municipality‟s burgesses and stakeholder organisations.

6 Taken from Jonathan M. Harris Basic Principles of Sustainable Development. Global Development and Environment Institute at Tuft University, Working Paper 00-04. Website Source:

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Policy Objective

The key objective of the Environmental Management Policies and Proposals

is to support the sustainable management, conservation and protection of

natural and cultural resources, and to promote and strengthen

environmental stewardship, while facilitating socio-economic development

in the Sangre Grande Municipality.

Policies and Proposals

EM POLICY-1: Changing Attitudes and Behaviours Regarding the Municipal Environment

1. Addressing the attitudes and behaviours of burgesses (both Corporate and

individual) towards the environment is a major step towards achieving

sustainable development of the Municipality. The Vision 2020 draft National

Strategic Plan has, as one of its goals, increased public awareness and

development efforts by private sector groups and community-based

organisations in the maintenance and enhancement of the environment. The

Cabinet-approved National Action Programme to Combat Land Degradation

(2006-2020) also reiterates this goal and outlines the Land-related Education

and Awareness Programme (LEAP) which is listed as a Priority One Project

“meant to raise the importance of land resources in all levels of the education

system and to increase public awareness of the socio-economic, cultural and

ecological functions of land as a means of bringing about a change towards

sustainable management and wise use of natural resources and the

environment.” The specific objective under this Policy is to positively

influence the behaviour of residents and visitors towards the Sangre

Grande environment.

i. ‘Lead by Example’ by promoting pro-environment actions

with the SGRC

In promoting pro-environment behavioural change, the shift starts

at the Local Government level. The SGRC by its actions will

demonstrate its commitment to the pro-environment ethos. The

SGRC will therefore audit its existing programmes and projects to

ensure compliance and to ensure that the activities of its agents

and contractors are in keeping with this focus.

ii. Development of Eco-Sangre Grande Environmental

Programme which will target and work with regional Leadership,

Public, Private, NGO and Community Sectors and Individuals in

promoting environmental responsibility, increasing awareness of

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sustainability issues; and getting more people outdoors and

involved in the environment.

The Eco-Sangre Grande Environmental Programme will be

championed and implemented by the SGRC in keeping with the

principles of the LEAP and Vision 2020 National Strategic Plan. The

project, which will first be undertaken as a pilot, will involve the

Corporation working closely with a number of agencies - MLG, UTT,

MPHE, EMA, Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Marine Resources

(MALMR), and Ministry of Community Development, Culture and

Gender Affairs (MCDCGA).

The programme represents a unique opportunity for the

Corporation and the burgesses to define Eco-Sangre Grande and

to encapsulate and promote this through social marketing, and

public education initiatives. A website will be developed which

would provide information on a number of important environmental

and lifestyle topics of relevance to the Municipality and these

include Vector Control, Energy Use and Reduction, Waste

Reduction, Reuse and Recycling, Wise Purchasing Choices, Global

Climate Change and Sea Level Rise, Conservation in Homes and

Businesses, Rainwater Harvesting and Storage, etcetera.

Interactive training activities will also be developed and targeted at

groups and organisations within in the Municipality. The objective

is to increase awareness, information sharing and social

interaction. Consideration will be given to undertaking an

annual municipality-wide event which encourages and

promotes an annual theme of relevance to the Municipality.

iii. While most of the Eco-Sangre Grande Environmental Programme

activities will be voluntary, consideration will be given to

developing a Compliance Programme geared at certifying SGRC‟s

contractors.

iv. Positively influence visitor experiences and behaviours through the

distribution of information and education on visitor conduct and

norms in a special environment.

v. The SGRC to encourage, highlight and endorse projects in the

Municipality geared at pro-environment behavioural change as part

of the Eco-Sangre Grande Programme on their website and

through other suitable media.

vi. Support and strengthen community groups and networks in the

Municipality with a commitment to environment and promoting the

link between environment and human wellbeing. It includes the

development of a register of and working with local environmental

groups and organisations engaged in environmental projects in the

Municipality.

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EM POLICY-2: Conserving Non-Renewable Resources of Sangre Grande

Sangre Grande, as the largest Municipality in Trinidad, consists of a range of

ecosystems and natural resources including its geology, physiography, flora, fauna,

habitats and biodiversity. Its ecosystems include coastal environments, forests,

wetlands, urban environments (including parks, and other landscaped and managed

areas), streams and rivers, agricultural environments, and tourism sites. The state of

these environments directly and indirectly impacts on the quality of life of the

burgesses and visitors to the Municipality. Ensuring their conservation and

sustainable management is vital, as the Region embarks on its sustainable

development thrust. Defining sustainable environmental management and carrying

out the necessary actions to achieve this require strong collaboration and a coming

together of all major stakeholders in a common vision and effort to establish

effective and efficient management, monitoring and regulatory systems. In

protecting and enhancing its natural heritage base, the Municipality will:

1. Employ appropriate conservation systems geared at improving management

of areas of environmental significance, including the rehabilitation of

degraded areas;

2. Protect its best and most versatile agricultural land; and

3. Protect its key environmental tourism assets.

2A: Areas of Environmental Importance

The areas listed below are considered of Environmental Importance and, therefore,

conservation and enhancement of these areas will be encouraged and promoted.

These include the Statutory Protected Areas, the best and versatile Agricultural

Assets and the Environmental Assets of Importance to the Tourism Industry. These

areas are highlighted in an effort to protect and reduce adverse development on

these sites. The statutory Protected Areas status for the most part affords a type of

management which reduces the likelihood of adverse development of these sites.

The RDP recognises that while CEC process affords some protection at the planning

stage, it is important to apply safeguards to other environmental assets to reduce

adverse impacts resulting from poor management practices and to promote the use

of best practices in the utilisation and management of these areas.

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The following highlights the Areas of Environmental Importance in Sangre

Grande:

1. Protected Areas

Statutory Protected Areas in Sangre Grande cover some 40 percent of the total land

area of the Municipality. These areas include 18 forest reserves and ESA. Plans to

improve the protected areas system through the establishment of a system of

National Parks and Other Protected Areas developed in the 1980s, recommend a

total of 61 units within the System of National Parks and Protected Areas in Trinidad

and Tobago. Although the system never secured the necessary legislative support,

many of the designated areas under this Plan are currently being managed as if they

were Protected Areas. The Protected Areas noted in the Sangre Grande Municipality

are listed below in Table 4.

Table 4: Protected Areas in Sangre Grande

Name

Protected Areas

Classification

St. David* Forest Reserve

Matura Eastern Extension Forest Reserve

Melajo Forest Reserve

Matura Western Extension Forest Reserve

Matura Forest Reserve

Long Stretch Forest Reserve

Manzanilla Forest Reserve

Manzanilla Extension Forest Reserve

Windbelt Forest Reserve

Long Stretch Forest Reserve

Arena Forest Reserve

Tumpuna Forest Reserve

Central Range * Forest Reserve

Brigand Hill Forest Reserve

Valencia Forest Reserve

Nariva Swamp* Environmentally Sensitive Area

Matura National Park Environmentally Sensitive Area

Aripo Savannas Strict Nature

Reserve

Environmentally Sensitive Area

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2. Scenic Landscapes

Due regard will be given to the following Areas of Landscape Importance:

Toco/Paria Main Roads (Toco to Matura);

Manzanilla/Mayaro Road; and

Central Range Forest along the Cunapo Southern Main Road.

This list will evolve as consideration is given to other areas that are of unique quality

and high aesthetic appeal. The MLG and the Municipal Corporation, along with other

collaborating agencies, such as the TCPD, Forestry Division, Tourism Development

Company Limited Trinidad and Tobago (TDC), EMA, Institute of Marine Affairs (IMA),

among others should identify, assess and develop a full list of Landscapes of

Regional Importance.

It will be important to preserve such areas of high landscape and aesthetic value,

and areas forming an attractive background to tourist development. Great emphasis

will be placed on the visual impact of developments on such landscapes. It will also

be critical to design developments in such a way to retain high and unique quality

landscapes within the Municipality, including coastal protection structures.

Controlling development in these areas will involve commitment and collaboration

among the key partner State and Statutory agencies as well as the development of a

National Policy and Regulations which recognise and speak to the issue of the

preservation of Landscapes of High Aesthetic Importance.

3. Individual Trees and Group of Trees

There are a number of existing trees in the Municipality that are of outstanding

natural beauty, help create attractive landscapes and sometimes are of historical

importance. A list of trees and woodlands of conservation value will be developed for

the Municipality of Sangre Grande, and guidelines developed for the retention or

removal of these trees. Tree Preservation Orders made under the TCP Act will be

issued with respect to trees identified for protection.

4. Tourism Environmental Assets

It is important to protect key environmental assets for the tourism industry and to

prevent their damage or destruction for short term gain. A number of sites have

been identified as areas of importance because of the high quality of their landscape,

and the unique experiences they offer. There is a partial listing of these sites for

Sangre Grande which includes Areas of Quality Landscape, Scenic Routes, Protected

Areas and Sites of Historical Importance. The Environmental Assets in the

Municipality of Sangre Grande utilised by the Tourism Industry are

highlighted below in Table 5.

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Table 5: Tourism Resources within the Municipality of Sangre Grande

Names Features

Natural Attractions

Coastal Marine Features

i. Beaches North Coast

Matelot Bay Grande Riviere Bay

Sans Souci Bay Sally Bay

East Coast

Sena Bay Balandra Bay

Saline Bay Salybia Bay

Matura Bay* Cocos (Manzanilla) Bay

- swimming, fishing, food, stairs to beach - parking, swimming, wash room/toilet

facilities, fishing, food, rip currents, leatherback turtles

- swimming, fishing, rip currents, surfing - swimming, surfing, camping/day picnics

- rip currents - parking, swimming, fishing, snorkelling/

scuba diving - swimming, camping - parking, swimming, life guard, fishing, wash

room/toilet facilities - parking, rip currents, leatherback turtles - parking, wash room/toilet facilities,

swimming, rip currents, leatherback turtles

Landscape and Environmental Features

i. Geological Formations

Cumaca Caves Alan River Gorge Tamana Caves

ii. Water Features (Rivers)

Valencia River Balandra River Hollis Reservoir Salybia

- Bathing/recreation - Bathing/recreation - Bathing/recreation - Swimming, kayaking, fishing

iii. Water Features (Waterfalls)

Cirra Rio Seco Matura Homard

- hiking, swimming - hiking, swimming - hiking, swimming - hiking, swimming

iv. Scenic Routes and Corridors

Toco/Paria Main Roads (Toco to Matura)

Manzanilla/Mayaro Road Central Range Forest along

the Cunapo Southern Main Road

v. Scenic Landscape Galera Point, Toco

Completion of this register is important as Trinidad and Tobago focuses on

ecotourism as a viable industry and more community-led ecotourism is established.

There are a number of sites unique to the area and known only at the community

level. These sites will form part of a Register of Natural Tourism Assets of Regional

Importance. This Tourism Environmental Assets List will be fully developed by

the SGRC in collaboration with TDC, Key Tourism Industry Stakeholders and the NGO

and Community Sector.

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2B: Co-Management Nature Conservation

It is important to acknowledge and ensure the protection of the natural resources of

the Region, including its forests, wildlife habitats, biodiversity, and the beauty of its

landscape. The establishment of co-management systems is one approach in

achieving this objective. The lessons of community-led conservation and ecotourism

initiatives within the Municipality can be used as a model to develop and strengthen

community–led schemes. The National Reforestation and Watershed Rehabilitation

Programme (NRWR) represents an opportunity for community-driven rehabilitation of

degraded and deforested areas. At present, there are a number of community

groups in the Region involved in the reforestation and forest protection as part of

this Programme. It will be important at this point to conduct an evaluation of the

Programme and to increase the involvement and collaboration with key partner

agencies, including Forestry Division and the Municipal Corporation.

2C: Managing Hillside Development

Where hillside development is to be permitted, policies, standards, and guiding

principles stipulated in the Hillside Development Policy of the TCPD will be

enforced. Included are the following measures which are intended to maintain or

maximise slope stability, reduce vulnerability to erosion and landslides, and limit the

migration of sediments from hillsides:

Minimising of the removal of vegetative cover;

Minimising of disturbance caused by cutting and grading of land for

buildings/structures, driveways, and roads;

Re-vegetating disturbed land within one month of completion of the

development; and

Prohibiting earthmoving operations on slopes in areas where the soils are

vulnerable to erosion or are geologically unstable.

In planning and assessing development proposals in hillsides and other sensitive

areas the Precautionary Principle will be applied.

2D: Strictly Controlling the Quarries Industry

Open-pit quarrying is a major economic activity in the Municipality, but it has

resulted in serious environmental challenges and problems for which there has been

much debate but little relief. It is critical at this stage of the development of the

Municipality to effectively control this industry, not only in light of current concerns

but for the sustainability of the industry beyond this present generation. There are a

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number of activities which are undertaken to bring order to the industry and to

minimise negative impacts, including the following:

Conduct of an audit of quarries and quarry operations and rationalisation of

operations of the industry;

Instituting strong regulation and monitoring of quarry operations consistent

with best practices and legislative reform;

Regularisation and closure of all illegal operations;

Operation of a Quarries Rehabilitation Fund based on funds collected at the

start of and during operations of quarries;

Provision of appropriate levels of security to guard against resource capture,

including the establishment an electronic monitoring system to ensure real

time information on quarry operations; and

Development and implementation of an Abandoned Quarries Rehabilitation

Plan initially targeting rehabilitation of spent quarries in Valencia area and

including activities such as the relocation of squatters from abandoned

quarries, exploring alternative uses of areas for productive activities – fish

farming, leisure and recreational activities, etcetera.

EM POLICY-3: Protecting Landscapes, Open Spaces, Historical and Cultural Assets

3A: Open Spaces, Landscaped Areas and Outdoor Recreational Facilities

The RDP promotes the concept of Eco-lifestyles which recognises the link between

the natural environment and human health and wellbeing, and promotes greener

ways to stay healthy and all activities that lead to healthy choices and healthier

lifestyles. Eco-lifestyles also encourage all communities to know, appreciate and

have strong links with their natural and historical heritage. Part of this programme

requires the Municipality to have a well developed network of green resources,

including open spaces, landscaped areas, and outdoor recreational facilities. The RDP

encourages the protection and enhancement of the Municipality‟s open spaces and

outdoor recreational facilities for the benefit of all.

The provision of publicly accessible open spaces (such as parks and landscaped

spaces), and outdoor recreational facilities is the responsibility of both the Municipal

Corporation and Central Government agencies, such as the Sports Company of

Trinidad and Tobago Limited, the MOE and, and the Ministry of Sports and Youth

Affairs (MSYA). Various private sector organisations have provided open spaces and

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outdoor recreational facilities for sports. The Region‟s forest resources are under the

control of the Forestry Division, while its water resources – rivers, waterfalls,

etcetera – fall mainly under the jurisdiction of Drainage Division and the SGRC. At

present, it is unclear who is responsible for the historical resources of the

Municipality.

The specific objective of this Policy is to ensure passive and active recreational uses

occur in a manner that is environmentally sensitive and takes place in accordance

with the principles of sustainable resource management.

The Municipality will:

Protect and enhance existing open spaces and sites designated for future

provisioning;

Ensure availability and accessibility of open spaces and recreational facilities

to all groups of the society including children, the elderly, and the disabled;

Ensure that designated open spaces are provided as an integral part of new

residential development and that suitable provisions be put in place for their

management and maintenance in perpetuity;

Ensure that the provision of new open space areas and outdoor recreational

facilities is in keeping with the environmental conservation principles and

helps sustain and enhance biodiversity; and

Ensure the development of appropriate facilities and services to support

outdoor recreation.

1. Protecting and Enhancing Existing Open Spaces and Sites

The demand for recreational resources and leisure time will increase in the short and

medium terms as Trinidadians and Tobagonians seek to escape the stressors of their

daily lives. Green spaces are an intricate part of the urban landscape maintaining

and enhancing environmental quality while facilitating access to outdoor recreation

and natural areas, and preserving historical and archaeological sites and structures.

A range of such resources already exists in the Municipality. However, their numbers

are likely to increase as new residential developments are established. Allocation of

land for new open spaces and outdoor recreational facilities is already part of the

stipulations for planning approval process for new developments. However, the past

trend has been that developers sometimes use these lands for other uses than

otherwise designated, to the disadvantage of the neighbouring communities that

may not have easy access to open spaces and recreational resources. This trend will

stop with the establishment of an appropriate system of monitoring and enforcement

of regulations by the SGRC.

A minimum standard for the allocation of land for open spaces and outdoor

recreation resources and guidelines for their management and use will be developed.

Such standards and guidelines will take into account a number of factors including

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anticipated participation rates, mobility and accessibility by all societal groups, non-

recreational use, environmental principles for conservation and protection of the

resource, etcetera.

There are in the Municipality open spaces that are being neglected. These open

spaces and recreational resources will be rehabilitated and brought back into

productive use. Where appropriate, innovative ways will be found to ensure their

sustainable management including employing community-led management

initiatives.

In cases where change of use is being proposed for open spaces and recreation

resources, an impact assessment must be conducted which will take into account the

cumulative and long term impact of the loss of such spaces.

There are several protected areas in the Municipality. The development of these

areas (establishment of trails and routes) and their use for recreational activities

must not conflict with their traditional uses and with the ecological, conservation and

protection objectives of these protected areas. Care must also be taken to preserve

scenic routes, green belts and areas of outstanding natural beauty. An inventory of

such sites and resources will be developed in the short term and proper signage

developed to highlight their presence. In addition, care will be taken to ensure that

such areas are not obstructed or considerably devalued by new development.

2. Increasing and Improving Opportunities for Rural Recreation

There are some recreational activities which are best undertaken in rural settings

including country walks and drives, bicycling, hiking, picnics, and sea bathing. The

Municipality has several locations ideal for such activities. However, it is recognised

that such pursuits create their own demand for facilities, such as parking, camping

sites, cooking facilities, picnic areas, garbage disposal system, etcetera. The RDP,

which is in support of these ventures, will encourage local communities offering

complementary facilities and services, such as tour guiding and hiking services, and

sale of food.

Much has to be done to ensure that these outdoor activities are conducted without

damage to the environment. There will be collaboration among the main

stakeholders which include the Municipal Corporation, Central Government agencies

and local communities in developing tourism products and in establishing suitable

systems for management of the resources.

3. Sustainable Use of Water Courses as Recreational Resources

Many persons use the rivers of the Municipality for recreational purposes - bathing,

fishing, riverside cooking, picnicking, etcetera. It will be important to preserve

traditional and new sites for recreational use and to provide services to enhance and

protect their integrity. Preservation of these sites including undertaking an inventory

and providing guidelines for their use, particularly with respect to waste disposal will

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be a priority. The quality of water in some of these rivers is questionable and can

pose health risk to users. An appropriate programme for monitoring of recreational

water must be instituted, if the country is to achieve the national development goals

by 2020.

3B: Historical and Cultural Heritage

The conservation and enhancement of historical heritage of the Municipality can

contribute significantly to the quality of life of burgesses and help to develop a sense

of municipal pride. This heritage must play a part in the sustainable development of

the Municipality. It will be important to strike a balance between protecting and

enhancing these resources while at the same time allowing for their use.

The specific objective of this policy is to preserve and enhance the Historical and

Cultural Heritage of Sangre Grande.

There are several places and structures within Sangre Grande that are of cultural

heritage significance, some of which has been identified as part of the Situational

Report (Annex 1). Notwithstanding the national inventory of sites of historical and

cultural heritage significance, the SGRC will develop an inventory for sites, structures

and other artefacts within the Municipality in collaboration with relevant Government

agencies and NGO and Community Sector. As part of the initial assessment

undertaken in preparation of the RDP, a number of sites have been identified that

will be considered of cultural heritage value. An audit will be conducted to assess the

condition of these identified resources including the issue of ownership and/or

control. As a follow-up, it will be critical to devise a management and maintenance

plan for those resources and to identify sites and structures for priority protection. At

the same time, it will be opportune to set out guidelines and policies for the

protection of the historical heritage.

EM POLICY-4: Underpin the Development of the Municipality on Relevant Advances in Science and Technology

1. Institutionalising UTT, UWI and Science Infrastructure Support

The protection and conservation of the pristine environment of the Northern Range

and the coastal waters constitute a permanent responsibility for the Municipal

Corporation, the residents of the Sangre Grande Municipality and the country as a

whole. The municipal space has not been seen in this light in the past.

However, given the strategic importance of the area, as a critical sector in the water-

shed, and as an ecosystem that influences the climate of the country, and as well as

its agriculture and plant and animal life, there is need for constant monitoring of the

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state of the flora, fauna and other aspects of the eco-system with the most up-to-

date of scientific tools7.

Therefore, the objective here is to bring the Municipality fully into the information

age, and secure commitment of the scientific community to deploy their knowledge

in the service of R&D and appropriate applications on resources of the Region. The

Municipal Corporation should invest in maintaining a relationship with the scientific

community of Trinidad and Tobago in such institutions as UTT and UWI, and in the

event that either is unable to deploy the relevant personnel, there will be need to

develop an appropriate relationship with institutions abroad.

There is a scientific community in the rest of the world which would find this

Municipality very attractive for the establishment of a long-term arrangement. There

will be need to establish facilities to act as a support system in the generation of

information, and for the storage of samples and material. The development of

protocols on the generation and use of proprietary information that would come out

of such scientific analysis will also be necessary. The Municipal Corporation will have

the major responsibility in the creation of this high level infrastructure, in terms of a

long-term relationship with the local scientific community, and possibly with the

outside world.

Also of importance will be the establishment of a programme by the Corporation to

encourage students in primary and secondary school system and to generate interest

in their environment by facilitating and engaging them to conduct their own

research, monitoring and documentation on the flora and fauna of their Municipality.

The work of the students will be housed at a centralised location to the benefit of

people of Sangre Grande and visitors to the Region.

2. Establishing a Citizen Education Thrust

The protection of this unique environment depends in large measure on an

understanding on the part of the resident population of the riches of the perquisites

afforded them by Nature. All residents will be exposed to scientific and technical

information on their environment, starting with children at the Primary education

level – to be built around an understanding of the Biology and Environmental

Science, out of which can develop a sense of collective understanding and ownership

of their space, including historic sites which reflect the richness of an earlier past.

Primary and secondary school students, whose exposure to Science is built on this

platform of their unique natural environment, are likely to become good stewards of

their space. The assertion of the importance of scientific knowledge of their space

would ensure that young people, including those growing up in the more remote

7 For example, the birds and the bees that inhabit the forests contribute to pollination and generation of plant life

both with the forests of the Northern Range and to the agriculture on the plains of Trinidad.

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communities would develop a deep appreciation for the assets and aesthetics and

possibilities of their Region, and would be spared any self-concept of being

marginalised. This could result in some considerable number of them being likely to

find the Region rewarding enough to remain, rather than to migrate.

The main objective here is to increase awareness of residents in the Municipality and

of the general public of the bounty provided by Nature, as an effective way of

enlisting their commitment to its preservation and to conservation generally. Among

the activities that should be undertaken as part of this Programme are the following:

Mount popular education programmes on the resources of the area;

Encourage visits among the population, especially among students to historic

sites in the area, as well as to environmental conservatories;

Enlist the support of the educational system – primary and secondary schools

– in anchoring much of the Science taught, with the use of the area as a

living laboratory;

Implement popular quizzes on the history of the area, from the contribution

of the First Peoples down to the recent history.

EM POLICY-5: Minimising Waste and Pollution

It is important to manage the amount of waste generated annually from within the

Municipality by reducing the generation of waste where possible, encouraging best

use, reuse and recycling of materials, and monitoring and regulating the handling,

processing and disposal of municipal waste. Ultimately an effective management

system leads to the protection of public health and safety and the environment.

Particularly difficult to treat with are tyres and scrap metal/vehicular waste.

Increasing car ownership rates will make disposal of these wastes increasingly

problematic. Behavioural change is paramount. Buy-in from Local Government, the

private sector, and the public is also critical as the Region moves towards the

establishment of an effective and efficient integrated waste management system.

The MLG is taking the initiative in improving waste management in Trinidad. Solid

Waste Management Rules have already been drafted and proposals are in place for

the restructuring of the entire sector.

The specific objective of this policy is to improve waste management in the Sangre

Grande Municipality. The RDP supports the establishment of an Effective

Integrated Municipal Waste Management System. The National Action

Programme to Combat Land Degradation (2006-2020) has, as one of its short-term

objectives, the need to improve municipal solid waste collection and disposal

systems as well as to explore the adoption of new technologies in waste disposal.

The SGRC in collaboration with the Trinidad and Tobago Solid Waste Management

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Company Limited (SWMCOL) will develop and adopt an integrated municipal waste

management system which supports the following:

1. Greater responsibility by individual and corporate burgesses for the waste

they generate;

2. A reduction in the amount of waste generated at household and institutional

levels;

3. Sorting waste at source;

4. Increasing recycling and re-use of waste;

5. Ensuring compliance with the system by negligent householders, business

owners, and other burgesses;

6. Ensuring compliance by garbage haulers contracted by the Municipal

Corporation to collect, handle and dispose of municipal waste, and a reduction

in illegal dumping by contractors;

7. Proper handling, transport and disposal of hazardous waste including medical

and industrial waste;

8. Developing a system and sites within the Municipality for composting of

waste; and

9. Cleaning up of illegal dumping sites and regulation of such activities.

The SGRC will formulate and implement an action plan which sets out its proposals

for reducing the amount of waste reaching the disposal facilities and for improving its

waste collection and disposal systems. It is envisaged that waste reaching the landfill

can be reduced by 40 percent. This action plan will address the establishment of

municipal recycling programme to encourage greater recycling and reuse by their

residents. It will also be important for the Corporation to strengthen its system for

waste collection and disposal.

In addition, the SWMCOL has designated the Municipality for the strategic location of

a waste transfer station.

EM POLICY-6: Strengthening the Municipal Disaster Management System

The SGRC will strengthen the municipal disaster management system, by identifying

and reducing risk to disaster and adopting a proactive approach to disaster

preparedness and management.

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5A: Municipal Disaster Management Plan

As part of its remit, the SGRC will take the lead in developing a strong and

comprehensive disaster management system for the Municipality. This will entail the

development and implementation of a Municipal Disaster Management Plan, guided

by the National Disaster Management Policy and the Ministry of Local Government

Disaster Management Policy, but which will address issues specific to the Region,

including:

Evacuation of Guayaguayare/Mayaro;

Industrial-related disasters;

Aviation and shipping accidents;

Regional and district early warning systems;

Building capacity for community emergency response;

Communication strategy for informing burgesses during upset times; and

Clear definition of the role of Municipal Corporation, ODPM and MLG.

The Plan will provide actions for the three areas of disaster management, namely:

Pre-Disaster Management - Prevention, Preparedness and Mitigation;

Disaster Response; and

Recovery and Rehabilitation.

5C: Shelter Management

The SGRC has responsibility for shelter management and will take a proactive

approach in the annual identification and evaluation of these, and in ensuring that

these facilities meet required standards. The Corporation will also ensure that

adequate shelter capacity is in place in the Municipality. Effective collaboration will

be required between the Corporation and the MLG, ODPM and disaster response

agencies, inter alia, in this activity.

5D: Early Warning Systems

In keeping with the National Action Programme to Combat Land Degradation in

Trinidad and Tobago, early warning systems will be developed for potential disaster

events, such as flooding, and El Niño dry seasons. Strategic vulnerable communities

will be targeted in a pilot study in the Municipality for the development of an early

warning system for flooding. Lessons in the establishment of an early warning

system pilot in the Santa Cruz/San Juan Valley will be incorporated into the

programme in the Municipality.

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EM POLICY-7: Mitigating and Adapting to Climate Change

There is recognition both at the Central Government and Local Government levels

that accelerated global warming and climate change are a reality. The current rate of

warming and climate change is as a result of human activity, primarily due to

increased emissions of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere as a result of the

burning of fossil fuel, industrial processes and waste management.

As a Region with an expansive coastline, Sangre Grande faces a heavy toll as its

entire coastline is impacted by accelerated coastal erosion. The projected changes in

the climate of Trinidad and Tobago will lead to a 1.1-2.6oC increased in atmospheric

temperature by 2060, along with less annual rainfall and increased sea level rise.

The impact of such changes is expected to be multi-sectoral, affecting agricultural

production, human health, human settlements, coastal zone and water resources.

The Government has produced a draft Climate Change Policy which is currently being

circulated for public review and comments. The Policy provides measures to mitigate

and adapt to the impact of Climate Change. At a regional level, the SGRC will:

In respect of Mitigation:

Support and promote national initiatives to reduce the emissions of

greenhouse gases and will encourage the development and use of renewable

energy sources. To this end a study will be undertaken to explore the

feasibility of the coastal region as a site for wind-generated energy initiatives;

Promote energy saving measures and devices;

Promote and support energy-efficient building designs. The Corporation will

work with the TCPD and others in developing and enforcing a Green Building

Code and energy efficiency standards; and

Encourage and support projects that enhance natural carbon sinks through

the conservation and protection of forests and natural systems and the

reforestation and rehabilitation of denuded areas that contribute to carbon

sequestration.

The Plan, therefore, supports the Nariva Swamp Restoration and Carbon

Sequestration Project currently being undertaken by the EMA in conjunction with

neighbouring communities, in replanting some 1339 hectares of the Swamp in areas

formerly deforested and degraded by illegal rice farming more than a decade ago.

The Plan also supports the replanting of other denuded locations as part of the

National Reforestation and Watershed Rehabilitation Programme (NRWRP) and

reforestation projects undertaken by the Forestry Division. However, there is need to

review and strengthen the NRWRP initiatives.

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In respect of Adaptation:

Support public education and social marketing initiatives through its Green

Lifestyles and Contractor Compliance Programmes and other initiatives;

Develop its information system to collect data on the impact of climate

change;

Work with MOWT and other State agencies with responsibility for

infrastructural development and natural resource management:

implementation of recommendations of Flood Mitigation and Integrated

Watershed Studies in the Region;

development of flood risk management guidelines for the Region;

development of a coastal protection strategy for southeast Trinidad,

which includes the identification of coastal protection and defence

mechanisms; and

conduct and implementation of recommendations of risk assessments

to manage risks associated with landslides and erosion.

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Economic Development (ED)

Introduction

The population of Sangre Grande is fully seized of the possibilities for putting the

Municipality on to a new platform of economic growth and development. On the basis

of the response of its residents to the regional and integrated development planning

processes, it is clear that they are committed to repositioning their Municipality from

being a lagging region, and to creating a dynamic one that is consistent with the

principles of sustainable development. The relative success of community groups in

changing their circumstances might have helped to create a shared vision of a

possibilities consciousness that involves bringing the Municipality into the

mainstream of 21st century, with due regard to the horrendous mistakes that have

been made in areas with similarly fragile eco-systems.

Sustainability and citizens‟ participation seem to be the hallmarks of the approach to

economic development that has been led in the context of a consultative framework

set by the communities themselves. The idea is to support and facilitate economic

development driven by the people across a range of economic activities that will

provide jobs and livelihoods within the Municipality. Generation of economic growth

in the Municipality must be informed and guided by the principles of sustainable

development.

Policy Objectives

The objectives of the Economic Development Policies and Proposals are to:

Expand productive potential and generate viable employment

opportunities within the Municipality, centred on its natural resource

base;

Stimulate continued economic growth activity in agriculture,

ecotourism, and community-based tourism, fishing, quarrying,

conservation, and water production; and

Support existing community-based economic activities through a

series of instruments – financial, training, scholarship, provision of

facilities.

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ED POLICY-1: Economic Drivers for Sangre Grande

The economy of Sangre Grande will be driven by the following sectors over the next

10 years:

Tourism/Ecotourism/Community-based Tourism – which would rely on

the resources that are available within the various localities;

Agriculture – short-term crop production, tree crop agriculture; livestock

production – cattle rearing, poultry production, beekeeping; floriculture;

Fisheries – marine fishing; fish farming;

Fish and Agro-processing – packaging and chilling facilities, subsequent

product/produce transformation

Financial Services – in the town of Sangre Grande, Toco and Valencia;

Quarrying – sand, gravel, blue and yellow limestone, quartz sand;

Commerce and Distribution – including micro and small businesses, in

main urban centres with smaller distribution outlets in other communities;

Upgraded Public Services

o Administration, Court House, Fire Station, Policing, Health Care

Services, Primary, Secondary, Tertiary and Technical Vocational

Education, Youth and Sports Centre in Sangre Grande Proper;

o Fire Station, Court House, Hospital, Policing, Primary and Secondary

Education in Toco;

o Policing, Health Care Facility, Primary and Secondary Schools to

service areas in Valencia;

o Policing, Health Care Facility, Primary and Secondary Education in

Cumuto; and

o Early Childhood Centres throughout the Municipality.

New industries – water production.

There is also the fact that there is a burgeoning extractive sector of gas and oil off-

shore of the Municipality, which if managed properly, can contribute some

employment and other benefits to the area.

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ED POLICY-2: Branding the Municipality as a Location for Traditional Tourism and for Eco-tourism.

The area is rich in endowments that allow it to participate in a number of niches in

the tourism marketplace as recognised by the residents of the area and their

Municipal Corporation. Over the last two decades, there have emerged a number of

hotel and guest house establishments in the north-east of the municipality. The area

has long been popular for domestic tourism, especially for those seeking solitude and

peace in seaside locations. There are also a few beaches and rivers that have been

popular over the years for day-trips, especially on holidays and on weekends. More

recently, there has been the attraction of the turtles along the coastline that attract a

number of visitors.

Sun and Sea: The area may not have the beaches of a Barbados, but there are

conditions for bathing in an idyllic environment, with sun, sea and sand in some

locations. While there is need to encourage hotels and guest houses to attract

tourists to the area, it may be appropriate to avoid mass tourism with large hotel

establishments. The Corporation of the municipality is well advised to promote

smaller establishments, possibly with the market targeted at the higher end.

Eco-tourism: The area is blessed with a rainforest that is a treasure trove in respect

of the flora and fauna. The oil bird is perhaps the best known, but there are other

rare species of avian life, let alone the wildlife which inhabits the second largest

forest in the country.

The terrestrial resource of virgin forest and wildlife, is equally matched by the

maritime splendour. At least twelve types of turtles nest on the shores of the

Municipality. Indeed, the community thrust to conservation and protection of the

turtles taken about a decade ago seems to be paying off in the return of an

increasing number of turtles to the shores across the entire north and east coasts of

Trinidad.

Northeast Trinidad Resort Anchor and the East Coast Scenic Corridor: The

Tourism Master Plan of 1995 called for the Northeast Trinidad Resort Anchor and the

East Coast Scenic Corridor, starting in Toco stretching all the way to Guayaguayare.

Already the Northeast Trinidad Anchor has expanded to include the entire M2M sub-

region, with strong tourism development experienced in Grande Riviere, Salybia and

Matura, and Toco and Fishing Pond to a lesser extent. At this juncture it would be

important to rationalise and develop tourism strategies for the holistic development

of these areas. There are also the potential of Greater Tamana and others parts of

the Municipality for ecotourism development.

The objective of this policy is to raise the profile of the municipality as a destination

for domestic, regional and international tourism, on the basis of its range of physical

amenities. A number of activities will be considered:

1. Developing a special branding and marketing strategy for the Municipality as

the Premier Ecotourism Destination of the Caribbean.

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2. Mounting of regular programmes for residents in conserving and protecting

the environment, including fauna and flora of the area;

3. Developing and implementing programmes to educate residents in hosting

visitors and the public generally, to ensure high level of courtesy at all times;

to provide regular information updates on state of the environment and

inculcate a sense of ownership and responsibility among residents in respect

of their role in conservation and protection;

4. Training of interested members of the community in the running of small

guest establishments targeted at the upper end of the clientele market;

5. Providing signage across entire Municipality;

6. Providing nature trails to facilitate visitors;

7. Providing facilities for visitors to beaches, rivers and other locations likely to

attract visitors – changing rooms, toilets and baths, parking and information

booths;

8. Continuous training of tour guides, lifeguards; and

9. Collaborating with the school system of the municipality to ensure that

students gain exposure to Science, especially biological sciences, through the

rich environment of the Municipality.

ED POLICY-3 Promoting and Supporting Community-based Tourism

Apart from private sector-led tourism, emphasis will be placed on promoting and

supporting community-based tourism as a means of economic development,

whereby the social, environmental and economic needs of local communities in

Sangre Grande can be met through the offering of a range of community-devised

and or/community-led initiatives to attract and entertain visitors. Activities under

this category which will form part of the Sangre Grande tourism product include:

Nature tourism/Ecotourism (turtle watching, bird watching);

Historical tourism (historic sites, community and family history, event

enactment);

Agro-tourism (farm visits, farm stays);

Soft adventure (hiking, kayaking);

Cultural tourism (cuisine preparation and sampling, local stories, legends);

Wellness tourism; and

Research tourism.

Community-based tourism is already prominent in the M2M sub-region, with a

number of CBOs and umbrella NGOs working within their communities and

conducting tourism-oriented activities, centred on nature, ecotourism and soft

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adventure attractions. However, there is a need to further strengthen its

development efforts through:

Clear definition of the various types of tourism activities which fall under this

category. This must be a participatory process and consensus reached as the

Region moves forward.

Expanding the number of activities forming part of the Sangre Grande

community-based tourism experience.

Strategically located facilities, totally integrated and compatible with the local

environment and unique in design and character.

A scenic and well interpreted touring route coordinated among the CBOs that

provide high quality access to marine, riverine and rainforest environments.

Small-scale resort developments that focus on the marine, rainforest and

agricultural environment, consistent with the objectives for the corridor

product.

At present the M2M, and to a lesser extent Fishing Pond, is emerging as a

destination of choice with respect to the ecotourism and community-based

tourism activities. It will be important to duplicate this model in the other sub-

regions, namely:

Greater Tamana – Tamana Caves/Forests/Rivers;

Manzanilla – Farms/Beach/Vistas/Swamp/Turtles;

North Manzanilla – Forest/Farms/Coastline/turtles; and

Valencia – Forest/Rehabilitated Abandoned Quarry Lands.

At the same time it would be important to strengthen the current M2M product.

There are communities within the region which must be strengthened in order to be

able to effectively function as a regional product. Some emphasis must there be

placed on bringing them up to par and facilitating their development.

All in all, emphasis should also be placed on sustaining the current forest

environment, the bays, and rivers and the vistas and the tranquillity of the various

locations which form part of their character. Thus, tourism development should be in

harmony with the natural environment. Equally important is the need to reduce the

potential for large concentrations of visitors in any one place. Spreading out the

visitor sites and facilities will facilitate spread of the income stream, greater

enjoyment for both visitors and service providers, and less pressure on the Region‟s

natural resources.

It would also be important to have an industry self-monitoring system, including a

code of conduct in place as well as to promote responsible and sustainable patterns

of behaviour at the various levels, by promoting best practices among operators and

encouraging responsible consumer behaviour.

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ED POLICY-4: Positioning the Municipality to be a Key Contributor to the Breadbasket of Trinidad and Tobago, to Satisfying the Food Security Needs of the Nation and the Development of a Viable Floriculture Sub-sector.

The undoubted agricultural capacity of the area needs to be revisited, especially

since the country is now more sensitive to the strategic importance of addressing its

food security needs, following the substantial escalation in food prices that occurred

in late 2007 and early 2008.

Indeed, the Municipality is well endowed with capacity for a relatively diversified

agriculture, by way of vegetable production, tree crop agriculture, animal husbandry,

and poultry production. There are areas like Cumaca that seem to be blessed with

excellent soil for root crop production and tree crop agriculture.

Vegetable production can be promoted in North Oropouche and Fishing Pond in the

North Manzanilla/Fishing Pond sub-region, animal husbandry in the Valencia area,

and poultry production in Greater Tamana. There can be a return to cocoa and coffee

production in other locations, along the north coast in the M2M area, and also among

hinterland communities like Tamana and Cumuto in the Greater Tamana sub-region.

Greater Tamana and M2M, and other locations in the Municipality offer good

possibilities for floriculture. Training and extension services will be required to realise

the potential that exists in this field. On the other hand, there will be need to ensure

that the regime employed in the management of floriculture is not reliant on high

application of chemicals pesticides, which may compromise sustainable land use and

impact negatively on other resources of the area.

The main objective of this policy is the revitalization of the agricultural potential of

the Municipality. The main activities to be undertaken in the realization of this

objective are as follows:

Develop infrastructure to support productive agriculture in the Municipality –

agricultural access roads, irrigation and drainage control systems. This will be

undertaken in the first instance in the designated Food Basket Areas identified

by the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Marine Resources (Table 6). Other

Areas will be targeted based on demand.

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Collaborate with the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Production to ensure

effective extension services across the municipality;

Engage farming community in pest control regimes to limit negative

environmental impacts;

Develop and maintain effective farm-to-market systems;

Provide training and upgrading programmes for existing and prospective

operations in Floriculture;

Provide extension services, in association with Ministry of Agriculture in

Floriculture; and

Provide regular information to farmers and the public in the use of biological

and other controls pest management.

Table 6: Food Basket Designated Areas in the Sangre Grande Municipality

Name of Food

Basket Location

No of

Farmers

Approximate

Size of Total

Food Basket

(ha)

Approx

Area under

Cultivation

(%)

Type of Farming

Tamanaquita Tamana 100-150 >200 >75 Mixed crops

Cumana Cumana >100 >200 41-60 Mixed crops

Degannes &

Jawahir

Guaico Tamana/

Cunaripo 101-150 >200 >75 Mixed crops

Cumuto Cumuto 200 1,500 >75 Crops and

livestock

Plum Mitan Plum Mitan >100 >200 41-80 Crops

Toco Toco/Sans

Souci/Matelot 50-100 >300 21-40 Crops, livestock

Tamana Hill Road Tamana Hill 25-50 >125 60 Crops

Fishing Pond John’s Road off

Genda Road 76-100 >200 61-80

Mixed

vegetables,

poultry, food

crops

Manzanilla Manzanilla >75 >100 >60 Crops/ livestock

El Recuerdo Manzanilla >75 >100 >25 Tree crops

Vega Vega de

Oropouche >100 >200 >80 Crops/ livestock

Cumaca Valencia 25-50 51-100 21-40 Mixed

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ED POLICY-5: Developing Viable Income-Generating and Employment Creation Possibilities in Fisheries, with Special Reference to the M2M, North Manzanilla/Fishing Pond and Manzanilla Sub-Regions, along with the Development of Aquaculture as a Niche Market Activity

There are a number of landing sites in the area. However, lack of chilling facilities

and the limitations of the road infrastructure have been the main constraints in the

growth and development of the Fisheries sector, with the result that it attracts few

young people as a viable and promising economic activity.

The elimination of the infrastructure constraints may act as a catalyst to the

exploitation of the fisheries which can provide sustainable livelihoods to some

percentage of the population and ensure that the inshore and offshore waters are no

longer exploited only by non-national fishers: it is known that there are nationals of

other countries who are engaged in the exploitation of the waters along the coastline

of Trinidad. There are also swamp-like conditions in some regions of the municipality

which might be amenable to aquaculture operations, especially in the North

Manzanilla/Fishing Pond area.

The key objective here is to upgrade the Fisheries Sector as a viable economic

activity in the Municipality. This will involve the following:

Establishment of chilling and freezing facilities at convenient locations along

the coastline to serve fishers in their respective communities;

Development of public/private/community partnerships in the management

and running of chilling and freezing facilities;

Encouragement of cooperative marketing of fish products;

Facilitation of fish processing operations at Sangre Grande Industrial Estate

and in two satellite locations in the Municipality, in the M2M sub-region;

Collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Production and Fisheries in

generation and provision of information on Fish Stocks, and in

institutionalising the monitoring of stocks; and

Development and facilitation of aquaculture in appropriate locations in the

Municipality. One possibility is the rehabilitation and utilisation of abandoned

quarry lands for fish farming.

ED POLICY-6: Stimulating Industrial Capacity in the Municipality, Starting with Agro-processing Operations Linked to the Food Production Sector

The objective is the restoration and expansion of the productive potential of the

Municipality and the creation of attractive employment opportunities across a wide

swath of communities in the sub-regions of the Municipality. This calls for the

rebuilding and transformation of the Market in Sangre Grande, and provision of a

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Farmers‟ Market to assist in the distribution and marketing of agricultural produce

from the Municipality. Emphasis is to be placed on the development of agro-industry

with linkages to new and traditional agricultural activity and the fisheries sector

within the Municipality. There is an important need to establish an industrial estate in

Sangre Grande or environs, with an agro-processing bias in the first instance, and

also giving consideration to the development of smaller plants or home-based

industries in the other sub-regions.

Of equal importance will be the promotion of the entry of firms into the industrial

estate, which are willing to engage in agro-processing and related activity. One

option is to provide space for incubator and other manufacturing activities for new

entrepreneurs seeking to develop productive enterprises on the basis of innovative

ideas and projects emanating from UTT, UWI and other tertiary establishments. A

special incubator programme should be developed which caters for students with

viable business ideas, who can be identified, targeted and supported as part of a

programme for developing young entrepreneurs.

A viable agricultural sector should support viable agro-processing, starting with

packaging and chilling facilities and ultimately product/produce transformation.

Sangre Grande, as a central location, should become the base for an industrial

complex specialising in agro-processing operations. This supports the need for an

industrial estate largely devoted to food processing and agro-processing activities.

ED POLICY-7: Ensuring that Quarrying Operations are Conducted in Such a Way as to Facilitate Rehabilitation of Abandoned Spent Quarry Lands, Reduce Environmental Degradation and Contribute to Positive Regional Development

The Municipality is the source of a substantial supply of sand, gravel and other

aggregate used in the construction industry of Trinidad as well as Tobago. There is

also substantial illegal quarrying in the area. On both counts, it cannot be said that

best practice is being observed. The result is that major negative environmental

consequences ensue from this activity in the Municipality. There have even been

attempts at resource capture by criminal groups. It is likely that the Valencia and

other sub-regions will continue to be an important source for quarrying materials

over the next 10 years. The objective is to rationalise and develop an orderly

approach to quarrying in the Municipality. The activities outlined in the Section on

Environmental Management Policies and Proposals will be implemented. In addition

consideration will be given to establishing an appropriate infrastructure, including

security and policing of the system for the operations of the industry.

Effective collaboration and cooperation is required between the Ministry of Energy

and Energy Industries, the SGRC, Forestry and the EMA. Consideration should be

given to the SGRC operating its own quarry as an income generation activity and to

reduce expenditure costs. Greater benefits must also be returned to the Municipality

from the operations of these quarries and also from its role as a major water

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producing area. Therefore, it will be important to the SGRC to meet with the

respective Central Government and statutory agencies and the Quarry Industry

Association to identify ways where mutual benefits can be derived from the conduct

of these activities within its jurisdiction.

ED POLICY-8: Encouraging, through the Physical Planning Process, the Provision of Space to a Basic Range of Private Businesses.

The Government of Trinidad and Tobago is committed to the promotion of SMEs. In

that regard, there is need to ensure that the population shares in the benefits

afforded to new entrepreneurs in the access to the credit and training assistance

provided by such institutions as NEDCO and the Business Development Company

(BDC).

The area might have suffered repressed entrepreneurship from the unavailability of

credit, having regard to the lack of stimuli provided to the sectors in which income

and employment creation might have been possible in the area. The state

institutions and as well the private sector - credit unions, banks and other financial

intermediaries providing credit – need to be made aware of the prospects for the

growth industries of the area.

SMEs are likely to predominate in agro-processing, and fish processing, distribution,

commerce and the range of services that tend to develop around concentrations of

population. A growing market economy is likely to generate activity and expanded

demand for:

Supermarkets and small groceries;

Fresh produce and fruit supply stores;

Department stores and dry goods suppliers;

Restaurant and Fast Foods outlets;

Automotive supplies and fuel;

Medical and Dental Services;

Legal Services;

Other personal services – fitness centres, laundries, barber shops,

hairdressing, tailoring and beautician operations; and

Funeral Parlours.

The areas of population concentration in dispersed development are likely to trigger

demand for such services, which are already very evident in Sangre Grande, but are

likely to emerge in Valencia, Cumuto, Matura, and Toco, and in other locations that

attract larger settlements. Support for business development may allow some of the

emerging enterprises to develop a reach beyond the immediate community. Indeed,

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some SMEs may well become involved in the provision of the export of goods and

services.

Not all income generating activities will be private. In particular, the development of

eco-tourism in the area will include a substantial presence of community based

organisations: the “M to M” already establishes the commitment of CBOs to manage

their space to ensure sustainability but also to secure income from their efforts.

The support of the Ministry of Community Development and of the Cooperative

Department will be necessary to ensure that the „business model‟ that could allow for

effective community participation and equitable distribution of benefits can be

maintained for the foreseeable future, and surely over the plan period.

The objective here is to ensure that in each sub-region there is an increasing range

of private businesses that are required by residents as part of their every-day living

in a modern Trinidad and Tobago. To make this a reality, it will be important to

allocate or earmark space for SMEs in the respective sub-regions. In addition, the

SGRC will collaborate with such agencies as NEDCO and BDC in the provision of loans

to SMEs across the sub-regions, and in monitoring the level of development of SMEs

in the respective sub-regions.

ED POLICY-9: Distributing the Provision of Certain Financial Services to Ensure Better Access for Residents.

A dynamic municipality requires a supporting Financial Services Sector to facilitate

transactions that are at the centre of economic activity. Sangre Grande has been the

home for a number of service providers in the Financial Services Sector. However,

residents and businesses in most communities have to journey long distances to

access these services. This has meant also that Sangre Grande dominates business

and Commerce in the Municipality since residents have to go there for financial

transactions. The objective is to ensure availability of financial services within easier

reach of residents of the Municipality. Several strategies are to be considered:

The allocation of space and facilitate banking and other financial services in

Toco and Valencia;

Encouraging and lobbying for the establishment of ATMs in selected locations

to facilitate services to various for far-flung communities across the

Municipality; and

Encouraging credit unions to modernise their technology and facilitate ATM

access.

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ED POLICY-10: Facilitating the Reach of Basic Commercial and Distributional Services across the Municipality

In the context of the pattern of balanced development being promoted, there are

some communities that will still grow more quickly than others. These are likely to

serve as important district centres for other areas. Valencia has already established

itself in this regard. Toco and Cumuto and to a lesser extent Manzanilla and Matura

can be seen as other candidates for orderly expansion of Commerce and Distribution,

in their respective sub-regions. The objective is to ensure geographic balance in

distribution of Commerce and Distribution across the various sub-regions of the

Municipality. To facilitate this, space should be earmarked during the local area

planning phase for commerce and distribution activities in the respective sub-

regions.

ED POLICY-11: Providing Public Services to the Residents of the Municipality Which Should Comply with the Principle of Equity of Access Across the Country.

The Municipality requires a major upgrade in the services of public administration

available to the citizenry. These include such basic requirements as the provision of

identification cards, passports, drivers‟ licences, birth certificates and social welfare

payments. User friendliness and ease of access should be the hall-mark of the

upgrade. Sangre Grande is likely to continue as the central node in the supply of

such services. A more appropriate administrative complex – one stop shop – is

required for centralisation of basic services. The objective is to guarantee basic

services of citizenship are available at a centralised location within the Municipality,

and in particular at the Main Administrative Building of the Municipal Authority of

Sangre Grande.

The Government in collaboration with SGRC and private sector should establish

structures to provide such services needed by residents of the municipality as

identification cards, passports, drivers‟ licences, birth certificates and social welfare

payments.

ED POLICY-12: Supporting the Emergence of New Industries

The uniqueness of the Sangre Grande environment can provide opportunities not

realised in other regions of the country which can be converted into businesses. It is

important to create the type of environment where such ideas, research findings,

etcetera can be easily converted into business opportunities. This means that there

must be strong linkages between research and business development.

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The Municipality is strategically located in close proximity to the new University of

Trinidad and Tobago Main Campus, which with strategic links, can provide the

scientific and intellectual foundation in support of much of the development that can

be undertaken in the municipality.

Although further away in terms of location, the University of the West Indies has to

be seen as another source for personnel with the science and technological

information on which can be founded the industrial and economic transformation

platform of the Municipality.

Indeed, its amenity resources are unique such that it might attract think-tanks from

other universities and research organisations outside of Trinidad and Tobago,

especially if the Corporation markets the municipality as a location committed to

environmental sustainability of its unique terrestrial and maritime space, in its efforts

to create decent incomes for the people of the area. The information revolution

allows the municipality to market itself in this regard.

The Region can become a premier location in the world context of eco-friendly

development of fragile ecosystems. It would be ironic that the world might discover

the perquisites of the Sangre Grande area before residents and citizens of Trinidad.

In that regard, UTT and UWI have a vested interest in being involved in an effort

that might bring international repute to these two institutions.

The objective is to provide a supporting environment within the Region which can

identify, facilitate the start up of new and innovative industries.

The SGRC will liaise with UTT, UWI, NEDCO, BDC, and other relevant organisations

to continuously identify opportunities within the Municipality for the promotion of

innovation and research and development, thus develop strong linkages between

research and business. In addition the SGRC will promote the location of new

business and industry in the Municipality that is generated from innovation processes

which would help to promote its brand as an eco-centre of excellence.

ED POLICY 13: Providing the Resources for Sangre Grande Municipal Centre to Benchmark the Municipality as a Vibrant Region, Contributing with Its Unique Amenities to the Development of the Country.

The Municipal Corporation has been successful in engendering a strong commitment

on the part of the business community of Sangre Grande to the physical upgrade of

the town and to the creation of major developments, namely Pueblo Nuevo and

Vision City. The town will draw inspiration from its roots in the early post-Columbian

period, in restoring itself as a regional growth pole. The objective is to reconfirm the

status of the town as a major urban centre and modern market town in the east of

Trinidad, and as the administrative centre for the Municipality.

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A major requirement is the complementing of public and private investment in

infrastructure of the town centre, with the private sector committed to upgrading the

facade of buildings in keeping with a coherent architectural design. There is need for

the building of a ring road around the town, complemented by the articulation of

streets, such that there is the appropriate balance among residential accommodation

and administrative, business and commercial uses.

The objective is to raise the profile of Sangre Grande by developing a befitting town

centre that recalls its earlier history as a vibrant and dynamic location tapping the

energy of the surrounding communities, when cocoa was king, by attracting

investment from both within and outside the Region.

Key activities will be to:

Finalise and implement local area plan for all of the town of Sangre Grande;

Develop and strengthen public/private partnerships and collaboration in the

enhancement of the town centre of Sangre Grande;

Invest in ring road around Sangre Grande;

Ensure coherence in architectural designs among buildings in the town and

especially in the town centre; and

Facilitate significant office development in Sangre Grande town centre and the

promotion of the town as a cheaper and people friendly environment for

commercial business development.

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Transportation (TP)

Introduction

The real purpose of transportation is access to socio-economic activities, and

includes both ambulatory and vehicular modes, both human and mechanically

powered. And in today‟s environmental sensitivity, there is an added emphasis on

employing techniques and technologies to improve that access and managing traffic

congestion, while simultaneously reducing environmental, social and climate change

impacts. In the context of the development of Sangre Grande, this would translate

into optimising movement and minimising the cost of movement within and outside

the Region, with costs including time, out-of-pocket costs, vehicle operation – fuel,

oil, tire, depreciation and depletion, and crew costs (for commercial vehicles) – and

insurance, all of which directly translate into increased cost of the socio-economic

activities that transportation facilitates.

Vision 2020 operational plan for physical infrastructure lays out the Policy Context for

the RDP, as follows:

“Physical infrastructure shapes and supports the living environment and is an

important determinant of the extent to which our economic, social and

environmental goals can be achieved. The goal is to create high quality, functional

and aesthetically appealing infrastructure that supports the economic, social,

physical and cultural transformation necessary to achieve Vision 2020.”

For Sangre Grande, transportation infrastructure will be dominated by roads for the

foreseeable future. This road surface transportation network of main roads, local

roads and agricultural feeder roads provides essential connectivity within the

Municipality, as well as with the neighbouring Municipalities to the West and South.

This connectivity, however, must be sufficient to support year round public and

private transport of people and goods, both by private and public means, particularly

to and from their place of work, the movement of industrial products and equipment,

the farm-to-market movement of agricultural products, and the market-to-farm

movement of agricultural supplies and infrastructural materials and equipment. The

transportation infrastructure to enable this must be developed, rehabilitated, and

subsequently maintained at levels of surface and structural conditions for the roads

and bridges, respectively, sufficient to support the projected heavy vehicle volumes

and loads, consistent with Vision 2020 Goal of a “modern physical infrastructure that

embodies the highest standard of quality, aesthetics and functionality”.

Likewise it is critical to cater for and improve the movement of residents and visitors

within the Municipality and the infrastructure that facilitate this process. Equally

important is the need to provide for walking and cycling safely including the

provisions for bicycle parking. Given the call for national social inclusiveness all

facilities should be developed with People with Disabilities (PWDs), children and the

elderly in mind.

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Connectivity must also include Sangre Grande strategic location in relation to

Tobago, hence the call for the development of a modern port facility at Toco which

will facilitate interisland movement of locals and visitors to and from the area.

Policy Objective

The objective of the Transportation Policies and Proposals is to develop an

improved, integrated and friendly transport infrastructure and system which

will improve access in support of sustainable socioeconomic development

and travel within and outside the Municipality.


The Sangre Grande Municipality‟s relative underdevelopment vis-à-vis regions in

northwest Trinidad, provides a unique opportunity and challenge to achieve its

strategic vision. Central to equitable service is ubiquitous transportation. The Sangre

Grande Transportation Policies and Proposals through to 2020 will cover solutions

falling under the umbrella of development of new roads and maintenance, repair,

rehabilitation, reconstruction and upgrading of existing rights of way, for the Central

Government (major), municipal and agricultural feeder roads. The overall

Transportation Municipal Programme also includes pedestrian, bicycle, taxi and bus

transport, and the attendant traffic management issues and plans. And given the

prospects for further development of sea and air transport to support the offshore oil

and gas explorations at Pt. Galeota, tourism and emergency response, directives that

follow include the associated infrastructure.

TP POLICY-1: Meaningful Cooperation and Collaboration between the Sangre Grande Regional Corporation and Other Agencies/Organisations with Responsibility for Transportation and Public Transport

1. Sustainable transportation solutions required to achieve the Municipal and

National Transportation Objectives necessitate a close and continuous

working relationship and collaboration between SGRC and all key partner

agencies with responsibility for transportation and travel, including MMOWT

(Highways Division, Traffic Management, PURE), MALMR, Port Authority of

Trinidad and Tobago (PATT), RDC, PTSC, neighbouring Municipal

Corporations, taxi and maxi taxi associations. Also key to these improvements

will be the proposed Roads Authority which in the future is expected to have

major responsibility for road transportation. Consideration should be given to

the establishment of an asset management database for the municipality,

which will feed into a national asset management system.

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TP POLICY-2: Promoting and Supporting a Modal Shift from Private Cars to More Sustainable Transport Modes such as Public Transport, Walking and Cycling

1. The RDP recognises that greenhouse gas emissions and their impact on

climate change present a major global challenge to the environment and the

need for transportation to make its contribution to the global response to this

challenge. The Municipality will promote and facilitate the adoption of more

sustainable and environmentally friendly forms of transportation, in keeping

with the municipal thrust towards eco-lifestyle choices and sustainable

environmental management. This regional policy is also in keeping with the

national transportation goals set for Vision 2020.

POLICY TP-3: Development, Rehabilitation, Maintenance of Central Government Main Road Surfaces and Bridges in a State of Good Repair, Including All Applicable Appurtenances.

1. As part of its National Highways Programme, the MOWT proposes the

construction of a ring road around Sangre Grande and an extension of the

CRH from Wallerfield to Manzanilla. The alignment for the CRH extension

starts at Cumuto, proceeding south and east along the old abandoned railway

reserve crossing the EMR, passing to the north of the Sangre Grande town

centre onto Manzanilla. The entire length of the new route is about 32 km and

consists of four-lane dual carriageway with landscaping and highway lighting,

seven major interchanges, three overpass bridges, four major river bridges

and retaining walls.

2. In the long term there will be need to determine the feasibility for the

development of the link road between Blanchisseuse and Matelot.

3. Regarding the Central Government (Primary) Road Network within the

boundaries of the Sangre Grande Municipality, the cooperation of the MOWT

will be required to secure the necessary improvements to these roads.

Emphasis must be placed on upgrading and maintaining the following roads in

accordance with best practices guidelines.

a. Eastern Main Road;

b. Valencia Main Road;

c. Toco Main Road;

d. Paria Main Road;

e. Sangre Grande Oropouche Road;

f. Cunapo Southern Main Road; and

g. Guaico Tamana Road.

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Priority must be given in the short term to the rehabilitation and upgrading of

the following roads:

a. Toco Main Road

b. Paria Main Road

c. Guaico-Tamana Road.

TP POLICY-4: Development, Rehabilitation, Maintenance of Municipal Secondary (Local) Roads, Road Surfaces and Bridges in a State of Good Repair, Including All Applicable Appurtenances.

1. Through collaboration with the MOWT and other road agencies the SGRC will

undertake, facilitate and support improvements in the Municipal Secondary

Roads Network. The following roads will be given to be priority in the short

term:

Table 7: Priority Roads in Need of Improvement in the Short Term

Roads Location Status Caigual Road Northern side of the

EMR Road surface is uneven and in poor condition; narrow culvert close to its intersection with the EMR; no sidewalks

Gadjadhar Road Southern side on the EMR

poor surface, sharp curves in some areas

Bakers Street Extension

South of Sangre Grande town centre

Road surface is in fair condition; no sidewalks or centre line markings; pose risk as a by-pass

Repso Road Links the Sangre Grande Oropouche Road to Toco Main Road

No sidewalks

Plum Mitan Road

South from Sangre Grande along the eastern edge of the region and is a linkage to Rio Claro via Biche.

Road surface in many areas is fair to poor with potholes and broken edges. Pedestrian facilities are limited and there are either no sidewalks or sidewalks on only one side in several areas.

Variations and/or adjustments to this list will be made as projects progress.

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TP POLICY-5: Maintenance of Existing and Development of New Agriculture Feeder-Farm-to-Market Roads and Bridges in a State of Good Repair, Including All Applicable Appurtenances.

1. Agricultural access roads are critical infrastructure to the Sangre Grande

Municipality, with a significant percentage of the regional income being

generated through agriculture. In addition, some agricultural roads are also

used in other industries – tourism industry and quarries industry.

A number of agricultural areas has been designated as „Food Baskets,‟ (Table

6) and therefore are targeted for development which includes upgrading and

development of agricultural feeder road network. A detailed inventory and

assessment of the agricultural feeder road network is required with first

priority given to development and upgrading of those in the designated food

basket areas. A second phase in the long term can address roads in other

areas that are deemed priority by through community feedback and demand.

TP POLICY-6: Privately and Publicly Provided Public Transportation Service, in Respect of Ubiquity and Frequency

1. The call for greater use of mass transit systems must be accompanied by a

better bus transportation system both to support inter-and intra-regional

travel. The recent upgrade of the PTSC Sangre Grande facilities will help to

facilitate intraregional connections. Throughout the Municipality there have

been calls for better public bus services to remote rural areas where at

present the population has serious challenges in securing regular

transportation. The Plan recommends that a roundtrip service between

Sangre Grande and Matelot in the first instance. A comprehensive study

will be required of the status of the town of Sangre Grande as a local centre,

and the transportation requirements that spring from that. Based on the

outcome of the study the service on other routes should be introduced as the

PTSC rationalises and expands its rural transport services. It would be

important here for Government to consider that public transportation like

other public services should form part of the package of basic services to

ensure quality living in rural communities. However, improved public

transportation is directly related to upgrading the conditions of the main road

system.

2. Any future development of the town centre needs to consider the facilities for

public paratransit (taxis and maxi-taxis). There needs to be a review of the

location and operation of taxi-stands in the area, and the implementation of

measures to control behavior at these stands. The Government will have to

introduce legislation to create posts of Traffic Wardens. An efficient group of

wardens can make a great difference to the image of the town.

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3. A major exercise will be the assessment of possible locations for a para-

transit hub to accommodate the maxi-taxis and possibly taxis servicing the

region. Such a hub should include proper amenities for drivers as well as

passengers; street furniture; pleasant and safe approaches to the area in

recognition of the fact that walking is a major part of public transport, and the

walk itself must as aesthetically appealing as possible; signs indicating the

various destinations; and police controls for the general safety of passengers

and the civilising of the whole operation. Efforts will be made by the SGRC to

work with operators to develop the necessary facilities and amenities at the

hub.

4. The Corporation will work with privately supplied public transport operators

such as maxi-taxi and traditional taxi drivers in improving the service to the

public.

5. The development of the Trinidad Rapid Rail Transit System (TRRTS) is a

major investment in national transport infrastructure and will have a profound

effect on travel patterns both within the Sangre Grande and to the major

centres to the west. The MOWT proposes the development and operation of a

rapid rail transit system in the two major urban corridors of Trinidad, namely

the East/West and North/South Corridors. The roll-out of the Arima to Sangre

Grande leg of the system is expected to be developed in the fifth and final

phase. Details of the alignment for this leg of the project has not been

finalised, but planning for this phase should begin during the latter period of

this planning horizon. The proposed design capacity of the system is 14,000

passengers per hour per peak direction. The SGRC will monitor the progress

of this critical initiative in light of significant impacts it is likely to have on

transportation and socioeconomic development in the Municipality.

TP POLICY-7: Undertaking Traffic and Transport Impact Assessments for Major Developments within the Municipal Centre

The SGRC will require Traffic and Transportation Impact Assessments to be

undertaken for any major developments within the Sangre Grande town to assess

the traffic impacts on the surrounding road network and provide measures to

mitigate any adverse impacts - all in accordance with best practice guidelines. Traffic

and Transportation Impact Assessments will guide, should there the need for it, the

nature of any road improvements required as a result of the implementation of the

proposed projects.

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TP POLICY-8: Improving Traffic Flow and Management in the Urban Centres

1. The SGRC will work with the Traffic Management Branch (TMB) to monitor

and improve traffic and transportation situations in the Municipality. At

present, that liaison exists, but it is recognised that the TMB would require

the assistance of the Municipal Corporation to carry out its traffic mandate.

The SGRC will take the lead in the identification of problems and traffic issues

within the Municipality. This requires more than police identifying congestion,

but in reporting, for example, on the difficulties residents have in obtaining

public transport from strategic areas. The Corporation will organise a system

for the collection of the information which can be used by the TMB for traffic

management and others.

2. The responsibility for traffic regulation and enforcement rests with the

Trinidad and Tobago Police Services (TTPS). The new municipal corporation

legislation will result in the establishment of a Municipal Police Service and

the establishment of traffic wardens. The Region will re-examine the role of

the Municipal Police Service and its new functions with a view to improving

traffic management.

3. The RDP recognises that some of congestion is caused by the operations of

some businesses (such as gasoline service stations, hardware stores and

groceries) in the major urban centres. The Corporation will take a more

proactive role in monitoring and regulating these businesses.

4. The TPRC will, in collaboration with the TCPD and the TMB, update its

assessment rules and methodologies. The location of exits, provision of

adequate parking, and in the case of large malls, even the internal circulation,

will all be considered before Planning Permission is granted to build.

TP POLICY-9: Making Sangre Grande a Pedestrian Friendly Location

1. The Plan recognises the need to encourage and facilitate pedestrian activities.

As a result, the town centres will be reconfigured as walkable centres, with

due attention given to appropriate pedestrian right-of-way networks, as well

as bicycle and motorcycle rights-of-way and parking facilities, as integral

components of the streetscapes.

2. The Plan promotes the shared use of bicycle and motorised movements

through road surface intersections, as well as along the roadway links.

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TP POLICY-10: Traffic Safety Rules and Regulations Governing the Shared Use of the Roadway Right-of-Way.

1. The responsibility for traffic regulation and enforcement rests with the

Trinidad and Tobago Police Services (TTPS). The new municipal corporation

legislation will result in the establishment of a Municipal Police Service and

the establishment of traffic wardens. The TTPS and the Municipal Corporation

will re-examine the role of the Municipal Police Service and its new functions

with a view to improving traffic management.

2. Road safety and the occurrence of vehicular accidents have become an

increasing critical development issue in Trinidad and Tobago. The SGRC in

conjunction with TTPS, MOWT and other relevant partners will develop and

implement a Municipal Road Safety Plan in line with national road safety

policies to promote and encourage road safety. The main aim of the plan will

be to reduce the risks and occurrence of collisions and to minimise potential

conflict among road users.

TP POLICY-11: Developing a Passenger Port Facility at Toco.

1. There are proposals for the establishment of a port facility and a Toco to

Tobago ferry service on the northeast coast to facilitate to facilitate

movement of passenger travel between Trinidad and Tobago and the tourism

industry. This proposal has already received cabinet agreement (Agreed to by

Cabinet Minute No. 1172 of May 5, 2005). The RDP endorses the conduct of

an environmental impact assessment along with stakeholders‟ consultations

during the feasibility analysis and design of this facility. The establishment of

a port at Toco will require improvements in the road from Matura to Toco in

order to make the port accessible to any significant amount of traffic.

TP POLICY-12: Accessibility and Inclusiveness with Transportation Improvements

Ensuring access to all population groups is vital in achieving the Municipal‟s principle

of social inclusiveness and for the success implementation of the various measures

under the RDP. The RDP therefore will support and facilitate the development of

suitable access for PWDs, the elderly and children, including improvements to

buildings, pavements, streets and public spaces. Consideration must be given to

PWDs when designing all facilities for pedestrians and the passengers.

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The RDP in approving development plans will consider design elements which

support accessibility and inclusiveness, including the design of the new Corporation

building and other public buildings in the Municipality. The Municipal Corporation will

work closely with PWD interest groups and other partners to respond to issues and

complaints about poor accessibility. Accessibility audits will be carried in the

pedestrian network of the town centres with a view to developing solutions to make

them more accessible.

TP POLICY-13: Promoting Seamless Connectivity to Other Physical Infrastructure

1. The Plan promotes seamless connectivity among economic, physical and

social infrastructure and other installations/facilities to reduce cost, and

ensure sustainable socio-economic development. These includes ports, oil and

gas pipelines, schools, health care, recreational, etcetera – and public utilities

– electrical substations, water supply, wastewater and solid waste collection

and processing, hazardous waste management, etcetera.

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Housing (HU)

Introduction

The provision of quality housing affordable housing which meets the needs of all

households within the Municipality is a key component of building sustainable

communities. The number of households in Sangre Grande is forecast to increase by

2,299 over the next 10 years, with most of this growth anticipated in the Municipal

Centre of Sangre Grande, Greater Sangre Grande, Valencia and Greater Tamana. It

will be important for each household within the Municipality to have available to it

quality housing that is affordable, of good quality, suitable to its needs, offers little or

no health and safety risks to occupants, and has minimum impact on the natural

environment. Equally critical is the provision of other complementary facilities and

services to make their communities liveable.

As a result, new public and privately built housing should be more sustainable

through improved design and function. Therefore, there is need for housing

standards that respond to this approach and for Government and construction

industry to work together in designing, building and promoting the features and

benefits of sustainable housing. Moreover, it will also be critical to address the

number of abandoned dwellings and homes that have fallen into a state of disrepair

throughout the Municipality that are in need of regeneration.

The Municipality also has a significant number of vacation homes and small guest

house/room operators, mainly along the coastline that at present serve mainly the

domestic tourism market. Given the intended thrust of the Municipality towards the

enhancement of tourism in the Municipality, these facilities must be built and

operated at an acceptable standard that ensures a quality visit.

Policy Objective

The objective of the Housing Policies and Proposals is to support and

facilitate the creation of well designed quality sustainable housing,

delivering a mix of house sizes, types, tenures to satisfy different housing

needs within the Municipality. In addition, to provide supporting amenities

and services to established housing areas.

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HU POLICY-1: Meeting Housing Demand

1. Given an additional 2,299 households predicted by 2020 (Table 8), housing

demand will be met by the

a. Development of some amount of housing on greenfield sites in

compact discrete, housing development areas with necessary

supporting facilities and services to make them sustainable on suitable

land where expansion is anticipated that is essentially near the urban

centres – town of Sangre Grande, Greater Sangre Grande, Valencia,

and Cumuto.

b. Consolidation of loose development on the fringes of the town centres

and along main roads, and infilling in existing communities on vacant

plots.

Table 8: Population, Household and Dwelling Units, 2000 and 2020

Sub-regions Population

2000

Household

2000

Dwelling

Units

2000

Population

2020

Households

2020

Dwelling

Units

2020

Sangre Grande Proper 18,157 4,669 4,669 22,470 5,405 5,405 Greater Sangre Grande 11,465 2,821 2,821 13,485 3,237 3,237

M2M 7,276 2,072 2,733 8,508 2,187 2,794

Valencia 8,769 2,287 2,382 12,094 2,635 2,741

Greater Tamana 10,360 2,601 2,815 12,352 2,936 3,141

North Manzanilla/ Fishing Pond 5,876 1,526 1,679 6,664 1,730 1,901

Manzanilla 3,734 984 1,113 4,427 1,129 1,263

Total 65,637 16,960 48,772 80,000 19,259 21,008

Source: Population and Housing Census, 2000

2. Current land use planning policy as applied by the TCPD allows up two to

three dwelling units on each of the 465 square metres plots that make up

almost all of the older settlements. The policy will continue to apply in all of

these areas. However, in cases where developments take place at the higher

of these densities, standards need to be devised to ensure adequate space for

light and ventilation, for the containment of storm-water on the site, and to

prevent the spread of fire from one property to another, and the provision of

other factors deemed as necessary for maintaining satisfactory living

environments.

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HU POLICY-2: Improving Existing Residential Stock by Upgrading and Maintaining Housing and Residential Amenities.

1. Rebuilding and upgrade of existing units and repair of dilapidated housing will

be promoted and facilitated through incentive programmes. Special attention

is to be paid to regeneration of such housing in areas like the M2M and

Greater Tamana, where the number of poor housing is greatest.

2. Housing will be developed by the public sector through the HDC and the LSA,

with the latter having responsibility for the regularisation and upgrading

designated squatter settlements. The LSA must address the imperative for

the relocation of squatters from protected areas, such as the Aripo Savannah

Scientific Reserve and the Long Stretch Reserve in Valencia and in sensitive

locations where there is increased risk to human health and safety, such as

steep hillsides and flood prone land.

3. The RDP recommends that, in order to increase the stock of all-round good

quality housing and develop truly sustainable communities in the Municipality,

plans for settlement upgrading must include the provision of social facilities,

such as health centres, children‟s health care facilities, educational facilities,

and recreational facilities to be located in association with residential

communities. These facilities with the relevant service providers (which

include services offered by Community Development Division) must be

developed along with housing and infrastructure development efforts to

improve integration of community. In cases of infilling in older communities,

attention will be paid to the retrofitting of infrastructure to match the

increased densities.

HU POLICY-3: Encouraging and Supporting Housing for the Elderly by Supporting the Concept of Independent Living for Older Residents.

1. Sangre Grande, with its layback and peaceful settings, is an ideal location for

persons seeking tranquil lifestyle and so provides an opportunity for

developing housing developments which caters exclusively to the elders. The

RDP, therefore, endorses the concept of independent living for older residents

and supports the development of such sheltered housing schemes in the

Sangre Grande Municipality. However, standards must be developed for the

design and construction of such facilities.

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HU POLICY-4: Encouraging and Supporting the Development of Quality Vacation Housing as Part of the Regional Tourism Industry

1. Already, there is a fair amount of commercial vacation homes and apartments

along the east coast of the Municipality of varying standard and condition. It

is important to operate an industry within the Municipality that adheres to a

minimum standard for the development and operation of visitor

accommodations and facilities. The Plan, therefore, recommends that the

TDC, Municipal Corporation, MLG, TCPD, NGO and community sector

organisations and operators, and other partners work together in developing

standards and certification process for tourist accommodations and facilities

within the Municipality, including guesthouses, hotels, apartments, resorts,

villas/cottages, lodges, bed and breakfasts, and campsites/grounds. The

Municipal Corporation will take an active role in the implementation of these

standards, mindful of the critical role of the industry to the Sangre Grande

Municipality and maintaining a reputation for quality service.

HU POLICY-5: Supporting and Facilitating the Development and Implementation of a National Green Building Code

1. The Draft National Climate Change Policy calls for the development of a Green

Building Code that „seeks to maximise renewable energy use and energy

efficiency.‟ The RDP, therefore, endorses the development of this Code. Apart

from energy, consideration should be given to the following factors in the

development of the Code – Water, Materials, Surface Water Runoff and

Management, Waste Management, Pollution, Health and Wellbeing,

Management and Ecology.

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Social and Community Amenities and Services (SC)

Introduction

In respect of socio-economic development, the last Survey of Living Conditions

indicated that Sangre Grande had the unenviable record of being the poorest

Municipality, followed by the Region of Mayaro/Rio Claro. This status relates not only

to economic realities of the Region, but also the lag experienced in the delivery of

physical infrastructure and social amenities and services compared to some more

prosperous Municipalities.

Therefore, many of the communities of Sangre Grande are characterised by

remoteness, poor infrastructure and a sense of marginalisation. There is need for

reversing this process of decay, especially through the provision of social and

community facilities and services, with due regard to ensuring a basic level of service

to all cohorts of the population, irrespective of geographic location, social status, age

or ability. Equity of access to the services required in a modern state and against the

back drop of the knowledge economy of the 21st century imposes certain demands in

the provision of social amenities. Key to this strategy is the need for mechanisms to

ensure that local communities are on board and involved in the continued

identification, development and management of some of these facilities and services.

The present approach to decentralisation and to devolution of responsibility and

authority to the Regional Corporations will dictate massive investments in the very

social amenities and services that these marginalised communities have lacked. Such

improvements are necessary for creating sustainable communities and ensuring a

high quality of life for its burgesses and which will thus reverse the tendency to

outward migration from the Municipality.

Policy Objective

The key objective of the Social and Community Services and Facilities

Policies and Proposals is to ensure access and timely delivery of quality

social and community amenities and services that are responsive to the

expressed needs of local communities. Such facilities and services must

ensure social inclusion and be consistent with the promotion of the social

advancement and human development of all residents.


1. The SGRC will use its resources and work with public sector, private sector

and NGO partners in ensuring the delivery of sustainable community facilities

and services. Where appropriate, the Corporation will collaborate and form

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the necessary public-private sector partnerships required to develop needed

social infrastructure and services.

2. In the spirit of social inclusion and facilitating sustainable human

development, it is important to that all population groups have a chance to

realise their potential, and to contribute to and participate in community life,

regardless of their gender, age, ability, religion and the other characteristics

which make Trinidad and Tobago a unique and diverse society. This ethos,

therefore, will be at the centre of the delivery of social and community

amenities and services throughout the Municipality. In designing new

facilities, consideration will be given to ensure that they are adaptable to

meet the changing needs of the population and to provide potential for multi-

usage. In addition, such social and community facilities will be grouped

together wherever possible for economy and to foster community coherence.

SC POLICY-1: Improving Primary and Secondary Health Care Services Delivery

1. Construction of Sangre Grande New Hospital

The Ministry of Health, through the assistance of the Eastern Regional Health

Authority, is responsible for the delivery of health care services to the

Municipality of Sangre Grande. There are proposal for the modernisation of

the Sangre Grande Hospital to a capacity of 100 beds with 72 beds to be

provided in the first phase. There must be collaboration, however, with the

Municipal Corporation and the people of the Region in the design and

upgrading of this modern facility. Given the future expansion of residential

accommodation in such locations like Cumuto, Valencia and in Sangre Grande

itself, and the prospective developments in the Municipality it will important

to re-evaluate the demand for secondary and tertiary health care services

during the planning period to ensure that needs for the Region will be met.

Already there is the recognition that the Sangre Grande Hospital should be

complemented by a smaller facility that would serve the remote northeast,

which might be located at Toco. This hospital facility in Toco should be able to

treat with basic services, like births, and emergency services where victims

can be stabilised before being transferred to the Sangre Grande Hospital or

other institutions providing relevant services. The growth of tourism in the

area would involve greater traffic and involves the presence of a much larger

population on a daily basis within the Municipality and on the north coast

specifically, than the registered resident population. A viable tourism sector

requires as a complement, health and emergency services within easy reach.

2. Provision of Improved Primary Health Care Services

The 41 communities of Sangre Grande are served by 11 health centres, which

suggests, a priori that primary health care services are relatively well

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distributed throughout the Municipality, with most communities being in

relatively easy reach of such services. Even the more remote communities on

the north coast are reasonably well served. However, attention must be paid

to the delivery of primary health services to the residents of Cumaca, who at

present have to travel to Valencia to secure services. At the very least, there

should be facilities on a weekly basis, such that even the most remote

communities would have access to basic primary health care services, with

personnel being available on scheduled days to treat with the members of the

public in the respective communities.

Any increase in population in the Municipality can be accommodated by

extending the hours of service to evenings at strategic primary health care

facilities, in Valencia and Sangre Grande and one of the centres on the

northeast coast. This will have implications for the staffing of these facilities.

Where appropriate, there will be upgrade of the existing primary health

facilities.

The SGRC, with the assistance of the MLG and Ministry of Health, will assist

communities in the establishment of Community Wellness Councils to ensure

the delivery of high quality and appropriate health services (including public

health services) at the level of their communities. The Councils will be

appropriately resourced to ensure their proper functioning and operation.

SC POLICY-2: Strengthening of Education and Training Delivery

1. Delivery of Early Childhood Education

The Government is committed to the universal provision of early childhood

education. The guarantee that those at the bottom of the income hierarchy

will have access, requires substantial expansion since the country is some

distance from universal enrolment. In respect of educational facilities, the first

thrust in the next five years will be on the provision of facilities for early

childhood education as the State takes a role in its universalisation. The MOE

has taken steps to identify sites for the construction of 601 Early Childhood

Care and Education Centres (ECCECs)8 throughout the Trinidad and Tobago

by the end of fiscal year 2012. These facilities will be located in the various

neighbourhoods so that children will be within a distance of not more than

8 Early Childhood Care and Education Centre refers to all facilities providing learning support, care and development

services to children from three to children under six years of age. Early Childhood Services (ECS) are here defined as

all settings offering informal programmes to children under six, and include: Day Care Centres, Preschools,

Kindergartens, Early Childhood Care and Education Centres, and Nurseries. Website definition:

http://www.moe.gov.tt/ecc_curriculum.html

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approximately 400 metres from their homes except in the isolated rural

communities where the distance criterion will not be practicable.

The RDP endorses the MOE‟s plans to construct additional centres in the

Municipality. The east, and more particularly, the northeast and southwest of

the Municipality are not as well served by early childhood centres as the rest

of the Municipality. As access to early childhood education is universalised,

there will be need for expansion of places in some of the more remote

communities of the Municipality. The Municipal Corporation will work with the

MOE, private sector providers and other partner institutions to ensure the

requisite number of ECCECs are established in the Municipality and quality

service is achieved and maintained. However, the Corporation recognises that

there is need for integration of housing and community facilities such as

ECCECs and would therefore promote the strategic location of these centres in

close proximity to any new major housing developments and employment

centres during the planning horizon.

2. Delivery of Primary School Education

The MOE will provide for the upgrading or establishment of facilities required

for educational advancement and skills development of residents, across the

board. This requires the repair and upgrading of existing schools, as required.

Where appropriate, the Corporation will collaborate with the MOE in the

provision of schools in new residential development.

3. Delivery of Secondary School Education

Enrolment increases at the secondary level will depend on the impact of the

demographics, as well as on the extent to which students elect to attend

school in the districts where they reside, and the degree to which the pecking

order in secondary schools continues to reflect patterns of yesteryear. There

will be need for the provision of at least one new secondary school in the

Municipality to cater for a larger population by the end of the plan period. This

potential requirement will be better assessed following the next decennial

census and an assessment of changes in the population over the ensuing

planning years.

4. Provision of Tertiary and Post-secondary Education Facilities

Post-Secondary and Tertiary Education is undergoing reorganisation in

Trinidad and Tobago. In addition, there is recognition that the country is

involved in catch-up in terms of tertiary enrolment relative to the age cohorts

involved, and compared to countries at a similar stage of development.

Indeed, compared to such dynamic countries as South Korea and Singapore,

Trinidad and Tobago is very far behind in respect of the percentage of the 20-

24 age group enrolled in tertiary education. The establishment of the main

campus of the UTT just outside its western borders will bring tertiary facilities

within closer reach. However, there will be need to develop distance

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education services such that many in the far-flung communities can have

access through the communications medium. The Corporation will encourage

and work with the Ministry of Science, Technology and Tertiary Education

(MSTTE) and tertiary education institutions in the Municipality in developing

suitable programmes to increase enrolment in all age groups and gender.

Consideration will be given to ensuring that there is increased male

enrolment.

The SGRC will collaborate with its partners in putting in place the institutional

structure to ensure that large numbers of people embark on Adult Education

programmes to upgrade themselves and to complete their education,

including the introduction of online and distance education programmes.

SC POLICY-4: Provisioning of Sports and Recreational Facilities

1. The RDP promotes healthy lifestyle choices, wellness and social opportunities

in the communities of Sangre Grande. Therefore, all age groups within the

Municipality have to be catered for by the establishment of the appropriate

facilities and services for sport and recreation, both for those who are highly

active and for those whose demands are more passive. Such provisioning will

also cater for children, the elderly and people with disabilities.

2. Provision of Sports Stadium and Indoor Sporting Facilities

There is need for a sports stadium that befits the Sangre Grande

Municipality to be located in the town of Sangre Grande, with facilities for the

major sports of football, cricket, and athletics. The SGRC will work with MSYA

in making this a reality. The Municipality has contributed sports people that

have represented Trinidad and Tobago with distinction in spite of the absence

of facilities for training and nurturing high quality talent.

The RDP endorses the proposals by the MSYA to develop a municipal indoor

sport/multipurpose facility at Sangre Grande which caters mainly to the needs

of the eastern communities in several sporting disciplines, such as basketball,

netball, volleyball, weight training, badminton, table tennis and martial arts.

The SGRC recognises the need for gyms and fitness centres, and will work

along with private sector and NGO and community sector entities in the

establishment and provisioning of these facilities.

3. Upgrading and Maintenance of Recreation Grounds

The Municipal Stadium should represent the pinnacle of a complement of

recreation facilities across the Municipality, distributed in the various

communities such that most residents have relatively easy access to a

recreation ground, for active competitive sport for those so disposed and for

the enjoyment of those who need more measured activity. The Municipal

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Corporation, therefore, will ensure that there is a basic provision of facilities

in all communities. Recreation grounds will be distributed across the districts

to ensure that all communities are within easy reach of some basic

complement of facilities – athletic track, tracks for walking and cycling,

facilities for popular sports like soccer, cricket, basketball, netball, lawn

tennis, etcetera.

Multi-use trails will be strategic localities for use mainly by residents and

visitors as part of the Municipality‟s eco-tourism and wellness thrust.

Lots for playgrounds must be provided in all new housing layouts, and the

Corporation will work to ensure that these facilities are developed to allow

opportunities for active recreation in safe settings for small children.

Given the number of recreational grounds/facilities in the Region in need of

maintenance, an audit will be required and a priority listing developed for

their upgrading and retrofitting as a central element to the recreation

infrastructure for the Municipality.

SC POLICY-5: Meeting the Demand for Services and Facilities by Age Cohorts

1. The demographic distribution is a good base for determining the range of

services required. The demands of the various age cohorts have certain

predictability. Babies and children make demands on the health system first

and then on educational facilities, and these have been addressed in earlier

sections. Likewise, secondary schools provide for the education of those

above 11 years of age. Part-time post-school education can be mainly

supported by the infrastructure of secondary schools.

2. Facilities for other services will anticipate requirements of youth, mature

adults and the elderly in their communities. Youth services, community

development services, and services for counselling and the catering to those

with social problems constitute the situation. It will be important to ensure

that in each major centre there is access to a minimum complement of

community and social services, with facilities well distributed for their

delivery. In this regard, Central Government and Local Government will

ensure the following in all district centres at the very least:

a. Youth facility – in each of the major urban centre;

b. Construction of a Multi-Purpose Social Services Centre in Sangre

Grande;

c. Community centres – in locations where none exists, with immediate

need in Grand Riviere;

d. Homes and day activity centres for the elderly

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3. The SGRC will also support the establishment of retirement communities and

provisioning of elderly care services, including assisted living services, nursing

care, independent living, adult day care, etcetera. The Corporation will

develop a list of facilities to be shared with its burgesses and the general

public, and, where necessary will collaborate with the Ministry of Social

Development in monitoring the activities and facilities of such operations.

SC POLICY-6: Effectively Delivering Youth Oriented Programmes

1. Critical in the provision of youth services is the need to create a sense of

place among the youth of the area. Given the history of marginalisation and

peripheral development, there is likely to be strong sense among youth that

economic and social advancement requires geographic mobility. Youth

development services would involve recreation services and the supporting

infrastructure of playing fields for football, cricket and athletics, tennis,

basketball and netball courts, as well as facilities for training and adult

education and general educational upgrading. The SGRC will work closely with

relevant stakeholders in the delivery of these programmes, ensuring that the

needs of remote communities are addressed.

There is also need for preventative services in terms of provision of family

planning services and anti-drug programmes, and services of a supportive or

remedial nature, for example, by way of services to teenage parents or unwed

mothers, and drug rehabilitation programmes. Some of the required services

will need to be discharged through a social infrastructure of Community

Development and Youth Development Services, and in a physical

infrastructure of community centres which can also function as information

centres or multi-purpose community facilities serving the population at large.

SC POLICY-7: Provisioning for Library and Information Services

1. The Public Library in Sangre Grande is the only branch in the Municipality

providing Library Services. The possibility for the provision of Library Services

in Toco, Valencia and Cumuto and bookmobile service in the other sub-

regions has to be explored. The provision of online information and internet

services will increasingly become an important part of the Library and

Information Services in these localities and so ways must be found to

encourage this.

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SC POLICY-8: Strengthening Security and the Delivery of Justice

1. Creating a More Effective Policing System

There has been some recent upgrades and development of the Toco and

Matelot Police Stations. Equipping these stations with adequate staffing and

resources is pre-requisite to promote a sense of safety and security among

residents and visitors.

The Corporation will encourage investment in an upgraded infrastructure and

networks built on an electronic platform allowing for closed circuit and wide

vision systems in the centres across the Municipality. This will ensure that

most public areas of the Municipality will be visible in real time – that is at all

times of day or night. The security of the individual is paramount, and must

be guaranteed by effective policing.

The new Municipal Corporation Bill will lead to the establishment of a

Municipal Police Service in each Municipality which comes under the authority

of the Commissioner of Police (COP). Space will be provided for the Municipal

Police and where possible, officers will be based in the same compound as the

regular Police Service operating in the area. A large part of the duties of

the Municipal Police Service will focus on community policing.

Special security plans will be developed and implemented for critical areas,

namely the Sangre Grande Municipal, Valencia and M2M in collaboration with

local business operators and NGO sector and other security related public

sector agencies.

Development of a municipal policing information system which will

complement a national system designed to ensure monitoring across the

country, with possible links to border and sea coast monitoring.

2. Promoting an Environment of Security

The RDP supports the development of secure environments through the

promotion of natural surveillance within the public realm, public walkways and

open spaces by encouraging supervised people-centred activities in these

areas, supplemented by increased use of targeted lighting and CCTV cameras

in critical areas. An environment of natural surveillance will also be

encouraged in newly-planned areas through high quality and sensitive urban

design.

The establishment of Joint Policing Committees will enable closer co-operation

between communities, policing services and the Corporation to identify safety

and security issues in communities and develop appropriate interventions.

3. Expanding Fire-fighting Capacity throughout the Municipality

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The RDP notes that a new Sangre Grande Fire Station has been constructed

and supports proposals for the construction and equipping of a fire station in

Toco, particularly in light of increasing visitations to the M2M sub-region and

the great distances that must be travelled from Sangre Grande to this area.

In addition, the size of the Municipality makes it important to establish a

voluntary emergency response team in selected communities that will have as

one of their remits basic fire fighting skills.

4. Improving the Judiciary System

The RDP supports the redesign and construction of the court in Sangre

Grande identified as one of the projects in the Vision 2020 Operational Plan.

Its redevelopment is required in the short term.

SC POLICY-9: Facilitating the Civic Occasions and Cultural Expression

1. There is general agreement within the Municipality that there is insufficient

wholesome entertainment and entertainment facilities in the Municipality, to

the disadvantage of all age groups, but the young in particular. The RDP

supports private sector ventures which lead to the development of

appropriate entertainment facilities easily accessible by residents and visitors

in keeping with the Vision of the Municipality.

2. There should be some emphasis on the development of centres of cultural

expression. These will take the form of:

a. A Heritage Centre in M2M; and

b. A Creative Centre in the town of Sangre Grande.

SC POLICY-10:

1. Developing a Regional Crematorium

There is a substantial population who are adherents of the Hindu religion for

whom last rites require cremation. Increasingly, people of other

denominations are adopting this approach given the growing challenge of

finding burial spots on the passing their loved ones. The SGRC will work with

private sector entities in developing a cremation site/crematorium in the

Municipality, with all attendant amenities.

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Infrastructure and Public Utilities (IP)

Introduction

Vision 2020 calls for the development and application of sound infrastructure for the

benefit of all residents of Trinidad and Tobago. The provision and development of

sound infrastructure by 2020 requires for the most part, planning for, and the

evaluation of the adequacy of existing infrastructure to meet present and future

demand in the Municipality, and the design and development of new physical

infrastructure and the upgrade of existing facilities, as deemed necessary. In respect

of infrastructure development, in the past SG has been underserved by infrastructure

compared to other parts of the country, particularly northwest Trinidad. In order for

the Municipality to meet the mandate for socioeconomic development in Vision 2020,

there must be considerable investment in infrastructure to boost economic and social

development and to combat poverty.

At present, the Municipality experiences problems in a number of communities in

respect of the delivery of potable water, thus forcing households in these areas to

rely heavily on truck-borne and rainwater sources. Wastewater disposal systems

remain at the household level. Given its propensity for high rainfall and runoff, and

the problem of poor storm-water management, flooding is commonplace in many

communities located in the floodplains of some of the region‟s major water courses.

The Region‟s drainage problems stem from not only the absence of appropriate

drainage infrastructure in critical localities but also from poor maintenance and

cleaning of existing systems. The drainage challenge faced by the Municipality often

translates into public health concerns given the high indices for mosquitoes and

dengue fever. Moreover land slippage is a major challenge in hilly terrains of the

Northern and Central Ranges, while coastal erosion has become a serious threat on

northeast coast.

The collection, handling and disposal of wastes are another issue as private waste

haulers and householders are known to dump waste illegally, thereby creating

unsightly and unhealthy informal dumpsites throughout the Municipality. A number

of initiatives are being proposed currently which should lead to reform and

improvements within the waste management sector. Equally important at this

juncture is the need for strong cooperation at the household and community level

towards waste reduction, reuse and recycle.

There is need therefore to deliver improved infrastructure and utility services that

would cater for residential, industrial and commercial requirements and facilitate the

continued growth of the Region. Priority must be given to certain specific areas

where problems are acute and in need of immediate attention.

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Policy Objective

The objective of the Infrastructure and Public Utilities Policies and

Proposals is to facilitate the provisioning and equitable distribution of

physical infrastructure and public utilities to serve the municipal population

in support of sustainable socioeconomic development.


IP POLICY-1: Meeting the Demand and Supply for Potable Water

1. The objective here is to secure adequate and safe supply of potable water for

householders and other users of the Municipality through the development

and improvement of water supply systems. Potable water provisioning is

mainly the responsibility of WASA. The Municipal Corporation‟s responsibility

in respect of potable water provisioning is the delivery of truck-borne water

supply to non-WASA customers. However, as part of its responsibility of

securing burgesses (individuals, corporate and institutional), the SGRC will

play a pro-active role and collaborate with the Authority in meeting present

demand and anticipating future needs. The municipal water demand for SG by

2020 will vary based on the successful implementation of its development

agenda which includes a number of initiatives earmarked by WASA to

increase safe water production and reduce water demand. These include the

following:

Universal metering so that water billing will now reflect

consumption;

In the short- to medium-term, the upgrading of the Sangre Grande

booster station and water distribution system in Sangre Grande,

Plum Mitan, and Sangre Chiquito; and the development of three

water treatment plants in Salybia, Cumuto, and Matura (at a

capacity to produce 12 million gallons) as part of the Water Sector

Modernisation Programme (WSMP);

Continued infrastructure development and retrofitting - laying of

new pipelines in an effort to reduce unaccounted-for-water (UFW);

Increased public education.

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Table 9: Water Demand for Sangre Grande, 2020

Sector No. of Users in

2020

Unmodified Rate

(litres /day)

Volume (million litres/ day)

Modified Rate

(litres /day)

Volume (million

litres/day)

Domestic 75,429 466 35.15 375 28.29

Light commercial 1,886 3,840 7.24 3,072 5.79

Light industrial 377 2,880 1.09 2,104 0.79

Institutional 40 17,900 0.72 14,320 0.57

High users 44.2 35.44

Source: WASA

2. The RDP supports the management demand with a view to reducing per

capita consumption of water and therefore the Municipal Corporation will work

with the Authority and will make Water Use, Management and Conservation,

one of the key areas in their Eco-Sangre Grande Programme.

3. The Corporation will promote the adoption of improved rainwater harvesting

as a water source in areas with water supply challenges persist, and advocate

that the technology be incorporated into the National Green Building Code.

Now considered green technology, rainwater harvesting is becoming

increasingly important in many developed countries as a potable water source

but also important for stormwater management.

4. The Plan also supports self-help water infrastructural development

programmes in an effort to improve potable water supply to communities.

The Municipal Corporation will facilitate and work with the WASA and

communities in developing water sources.

IP POLICY-2: Improving Wastewater Management

1. Given the need to improve wastewater management and treatment in the

Municipality, the RDP recognises plans for developing, retrofitting and

upgrading wastewater facilities and services throughout as outlined in the

Draft Water and Wastewater Master Plan (WWMP). The WWMP calls for the

development of centralised/regionalised treatment systems across Trinidad

and Tobago. Trinidad will be divided into 25 catchment areas for which

detailed wastewater systems will be designed in accordance with good health

and water quality engineering practices. This centralised system will integrate

existing systems, new developments and currently un-sewered areas. The

Municipality is located essentially in four catchment areas9 –

9 Water and Sewerage Authority, 2008. Water and Wastewater Master Plan and Policy for Trinidad and Tobago: Draft Wastewater Alternatives Report.

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a. Area 2: Toco Area including Matelot/Grand Riviere/Monte Video/Sans

Souci/L'anse Noir/Mission/Toco

b. Area 5: East-West Corridor including Bamboo/Trincity/Malabar/

Wallerfield/Valencia

c. Area 6: Sangre Grande/North Oropouche

d. Area 7: Balandra/Salybia/Matura

No design solutions were provided for the eastern section of the Municipality –

North Manzanilla and Manzanilla.

There are plans in the short-term to medium term for the development of the

Sangre Grande Wastewater Treatment Plant, with a capacity to treat 5 million

gallons per day. This will lead to the sewering of the town of Sangre Grande.

2. The need for short term and medium term solutions to the wastewater

problems in the Municipality makes it imperative that the SGRC work with

WASA and/or partner agencies in improving the current problems associated

with wastewater management in the Municipality. The corrective actions

required:

All existing sewerage system and waste water treatment plants to be

appraised and refurbished and brought into effective use;

All existing and new housing developments and large institutions such

as schools and hospitals need to be sewered and the wastewater

treated in wastewater treatment plants;

All pit latrines to be replaced by septic tanks and seepage pits;

All industries are responsible for the proper treatment and disposal of

effluent and toxic waste. Any discharges into region‟s receiving waters

must meet Water Pollution Rules and other relevant standards;

Safely treated wastewater to be recycled for use in agriculture, aquifer

recharge, industry and construction;

Public awareness and social marketing programme relating to the

effects of littering, solid-waste disposal etc and their effect on the

environment;

WASA needs to adopt all existing WWTP‟s and maintain effectively;

and

Establishing an effective monitoring system to minimise the impact of

septic tank and soakaway systems and other municipal pollution

sources not included in the Water Pollution Rules.

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IP POLICY-3: Improving Stormwater Management and Drainage Control

1. Flooding is a major problem and a main cause of distress for burgesses in

vulnerable areas. Over the years, the MOWT/Drainage Division and the

Corporation have done maintenance works on the main river systems.

However, because of the number of local flooding events, it is now necessary

to take a holistic look at entire river basin systems, and design solutions

which will effectively control stormwater flows and flooding. As part of its

Comprehensive National Drainage Study, Drainage Division has undertaken a

Flood Mitigation and Integrated Watershed Study for the North Oropouche

River, which will develop short term to long term flood mitigation

interventions and best management practices for those watersheds, including

the construction of retention ponds. The RDP supports the conduct of similar

study for Tamana River system in the area.

2. In the short- and medium-term, the Municipal Corporation will endeavour to

undertake the following measures necessary to mitigate the many negative

effects of flooding.

Development and implementation of drainage plans for town of

Sangre Grande, Valencia, Cumuto and Toco.

Monitor human settlements and watersheds in respect of

deforestation and new settlement locations;

Support infrastructure designs which allow for free flow of water

along waterways, for example, appropriate drain sizing, bridge

decks high enough so that bamboo and cuttings can flow through,

etcetera;

Educate the populace with regard to solid waste disposal and

management;

Restrict human activity on flood plains where there is a high

frequency of flooding;

Promote and support green designs that reduce stormwater runoff.

Rainwater harvesting should be considered as an option for

controlling rapid stormwater flows;

Support insurance and government subsidies for people and

businesses affected by flooding;

Levees can be used to make available land safe for human

settlements;

Use engineering and biological measures to protect riverbanks,

bends and bridges abutments from erosion and failure.

3. The SGRC will work with TCPD, Drainage Division, Unemployment Relief

Programme (URP) and neighbouring municipal corporations and other

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partners to develop and upgrade both inter-lot and main drains and to

develop and synchronise their annual drainage maintenance programme.

IP POLICY-4: Effectively Controlling Coastal Erosion

1. Coastal erosion is a major challenge and is occurring extensively along the

north and east coasts. Drainage Division, responsible for national coastal

defence works, has undertaken a North Coast Coastal Protection Works Study

as a component of the Comprehensive National Drainage Study. Emphasis

must now be placed on implementation of the recommended solutions of this

Study which will provide coastal protection and defence works between

Blanchisseuse and Toco

2. The aggressiveness of the coastal erosion in this Region suggests the need for

a continuous monitoring and protection of the coastline. A Northeast Trinidad

Coastal Monitoring Programme should be implemented and can involve

community groups in the M2M, Fishing Pond, North Manzanilla and

Manzanilla, already involved in turtle monitoring schemes and ecotourism

ventures in these areas. This programme will also require ongoing

collaboration among agencies such as, the Municipal Corporation, IMA,

Drainage Division, and stakeholders who reside and work in the coastal zone,

including oil and gas companies.

IP POLICY-5: Improving Electricity Supply to Sangre Grande

1. Trinidad and Tobago Electricity Commission (T&TEC) is currently expanding

and building new substations and other infrastructure to handle any

anticipated increase in demand. There are plans are in place to increase the

generating capacity in Trinidad from 1600MW to 3000MW. In respect of

distribution and transmission, substations are being expanded at Wallerfield

and Tamana and new meters with automatic reading are installed throughout

the country for all customers. In addition, new pylons and high voltage lines

are being put up across the country.

2. The SGRC will work with T&TEC to target areas that require infrastructural

improvement, including the reduction in the number of unsightly overhead

wires; safer and more reliable fittings and fixtures; and maintenance of poles,

transformers, high voltage pylons, and switch gear equipment.

3. The SGRC will work with T&TEC in the municipal street lightning programme.

4. Medium and long term planning to ensure that the regions power needs will

be met in the future.

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IP POLICY-6: Improving Telecommunications Services in Sangre Grande

1. Most communities in Sangre Grande along the EMR are relatively well served

in all aspects of telecommunication, that is, telephone, cable television,

internet and radio services, etcetera. However, emphasis must be placed on

upgrading of some services to rural communities, particularly with the

introduction of high speed internet service in M2M, Greater Tamana and North

Manzanilla. It is expected that the industry should be able to meet the

demand generated by the projected growth and will be upgraded to standards

consistent with Vision 2020 objectives.

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Institutional Strengthening (IS)

Introduction

There are a number of areas where the purposes of land use planning are better

served not so much by actual physical plans but rather by the institutional

arrangements that are put in place to ensure cross-cutting issues are constantly

being addressed.

The Municipality extends over some of the most sensitive eco-systems in this small

island state. There has been considerable scientific study of the Northern Range and

the impact of illegal or improper quarrying, deforestation, slash and burn agriculture

on the hillsides, and squatting, for example, on the increase in flooding, and on the

supply of water to aquifers etcetera. Given the widely available information on the

negative implications of these social practices, the frequent episodes of flooding,

landslides and other environmental disasters are partly people-made and constitute

institutional failure.

There is need to address certain institutional requirements as a part of spatial

planning and development. Firstly, environmental monitoring and evaluation has to

be shored up by legislation and strong enforcement. This means that as an aspect of

public policy, an agency like the EMA must be vested not only with the authority, but

also with the resources to intervene in the public interest where there is a threat to

the wider public from actions or lack thereof in respect of the use of space by

anyone. The Municipality might be deemed to be a conjoined or interested party in

that regard.

More particularly, there must be close collaboration between the Municipality and the

EMA and other agencies with statutory responsibility for natural resource

management. Community participation remains a major imperative in ensuring

sustainable natural resource and environmental management.

Policy Objective

The objective of the Institutional Development Priority is to strengthen the

institutional framework under which the Sangre Grande RDP will be

implemented.

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IS POLICY-1: Strengthen the Legislative Framework for Physical Planning and Cultural/Historical Heritage Management

1. The updating of TCP legislation to more properly deal with environmental

matters, and the revision of environmental management legislation to

effectively link development planning and environmental management

through the CEC process are among legislative changes that are critical to the

realisation of environmental protection goals. Although quarrying is not a

widespread commercial activity within the Municipality there have been

instances of illegal quarrying activities. The delisting, from the CEC

(Designated Activities) Order, of quarries of less than 60 hectares of land

should be urgently re-visited in view of the major conflicts and impact which

such activity have on the natural resource base. The cumulative negative

impacts of having a number of quarries in one location also make it

imperative that this Order be revised. In addition, forestry and water

resources management legislation would also need to be urgently addressed.

2. There is currently limited legislation to deal with the issue of protection and

preservation of historical and cultural heritage. Given the importance of these

resources and the fact that many would be in the hands of private entities, it

may be best to have a legal system to address this issue.

IS POLICY-2: Institutionalise community-based involvement in the regional development projects

1. Experience has demonstrated that effective environmental management

involves community participation. A population that is aware of environmental

threats and is committed to the protection of its space will act as responsible

stewards, whether or not there are sanctions for infractions. Communities

currently involved in the reforestation efforts in the Nariva Swamp, such as

Kernahan and Plum Mitan are good examples where there is a general

awareness and commitment of residents to community based environmental

activities. In addition, the Matura to Matelot (M2M) communities in the

neighbouring Sangre Grande Municipality provide examples for community-

based co-environmental management systems revolving around tourism and

eco-tourism activities. The inculcating of the appropriate values among the

population will be a major factor in environmental management and

monitoring of spatial development. Community development agencies will be

critical in the working with the Municipal Corporation towards increased

involvement in environmental management efforts. The SGRC will collaborate

and work closely with frontline Government agencies (Forestry Division and

Division of Community Development) in the management of natural resources

within the boundaries of the Municipality.

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IS POLICY-3: Enforcing existing laws to the betterment of the development of the Municipality

1. There is also the matter of the application of sanctions. Squatter settlements

in vulnerable areas, informal hillside farmers using unsustainable practices

may have to be removed in the public interest. Moral suasion may not be

adequate, and there may be need for sensitively applied pressure to ensure

the protection of vulnerable areas and in arresting such poor practices like

illegal dumping and burning of garbage.

IS POLICY-4: Improving collaboration and cooperation with Central Government, Local Government and Statutory Authorities, the Private Sector, and the Community and NGO Sector in the Development of the Sangre Grande Municipality.

1. The RDP recognises that the issue of inter-agency coordination that must be

institutionalised in the management of information and in the implementation

of action with respect to all aspects of the Plan, in particular coordinating the

Development of Infrastructural Facilities (such as drainage, coastal defence

works), Facilitating Industrial and Economic Development; coordinating the

Provision of Social and Community Development Services; and coordinating

Spatial Planning. Key areas where coordination and collaboration will be

required include the following:

a. Tourism development;

b. Industrial and economic development;

c. Heritage preservation and management;

d. Transportation;

e. Potable water supply and delivery;

f. Stormwater management and drainage;

g. Public Health;

h. Environmental rehabilitation and management;

i. Provision of Social and Community Development Services;

j. Physical Planning;

k. Solid Waste Management; and

l. Disaster Management.

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IS POLICY-5: Institutionalising and Strengthening Stakeholder and Public Participation in the Regional Development Planning Process

1. This RDP planning process carries with it, a number of lessons which will be

applied to improve the participatory response to the development of the

Sangre Grande. Given the size of the Municipality, its complexity and

dynamics, it will be important for the Municipal Corporation to improve

communication with its burgesses. A mechanism will be developed to ensure

continued communication and interaction and for developing sense of pride

for living in Sangre Grande.

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Municipal Management (MM)

Introduction

The planned Local Government Reform programme requires the SGRC to exercise

greater powers in the management of the Municipality than it currently does, and to

do so effectively.

At the administrative level this would require an improved complement of qualified

staff including Land Use Planning professional and technical staff who would guide

the Corporation in the implementation of the RDP mainly through development

control, monitoring, and enforcement; in the updating of the plan as necessary; and

in the preparation of Local Area and Special Area Plans. The control over

development would need to be exercised in collaboration with the TCPD which should

also improve its staff complement.

There is also need for the Municipal Corporation to be “more efficient and have in

place user friendly systems to deal with its burgesses.”

Policy Objective

The objective of the Municipal Management Policies and Proposals is to

improve management of Municipality by the SGRC.


MM POLICY-1: Strengthening the Municipal Management System

1. Consideration will be given to the following proposals in order to strengthen

municipal management of Sangre Grande:

The conduct of an annual participatory exercise to review and revise the

RDP and to gain consensus on regional projects going for annual

financing. The review will include the key stakeholder interest groups and

institutions operating in the Municipality and must be conducted prior to

the end of the budgetary cycle.

The restructuring of the Corporation to include representation of

stakeholder groups on the top decision-making committees;

The creation of a Regional Planning Committee, comprised of

representatives of all stakeholders, which would operate at both regional

and community levels to, inter alia, identify needs, formulate plans,

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prepare budgets, and locate resources for the development of the

communities;

The grant to the Corporation of greater autonomy in the discharge of their

functions through establishment of a strong Regional Planning Body,

incorporating all stakeholder groups, and functioning as an integral part of

the Corporation, and having the authority to challenge decisions handed

down by Central Government without adequate consultation with the

Corporation; and

Establishment of a Municipal Court to deal with infractions of the law such

as littering, illegal dumping of garbage, and non-maintenance of

abandoned property.

Operation of an efficient complaints desk where complaints are recorded,

logged and follow-up action taken within a prescribed period of time.

Client feedback and follow-up should also be an integral component of this

system.

MM POLICY-2: Continue decentralising the SGRC

1. Decentralisation of the SGRC activities will bring the Corporation closer to the

people. In this regard, the Municipality will be divided into sub-regions within

which an office in northeast would operate to treat with public health related

issues, in particular, and from which staff can become familiar with situations

before they reach crisis proportion.

MM POLICY-3: Strengthening Coordination and Collaboration

1. The new local government dispensation would require the SGRC to strengthen

coordination and collaboration, and to have proper working relationships, with

Central Government, Statutory and Special Service Companies – service

providers including WASA, the MOWT, and RDC in the provision and

maintenance of public utilities, infrastructure, and other relevant services.

There would be the need, as well for collaboration with agencies such as

CEPEP in order to more effectively serve the Municipality.

It is critical that the Corporation work closely with the TCPD to manage and

monitor the development process. In this regard, the Coordinating

Committees that previously operated would need to be re-established and

include agencies involved in land development, including the TCPD and the

WASA. The Committee should meet on a frequent basis to consider major

development proposals and ensure that infrastructure and services can be

provided to match the proposed levels of development, and in order that their

own planning can be informed by an appreciation of current deficiencies and

an understanding of future demand. The Committee should keep the Plan

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continuously under review. Increased co-ordination will take place with the

Couva/Tabaquite/Talparo, Sangre Grande and Princes Town Regional

Corporations relating to cross-boundary issues, and in light of imminent

boundary changes.

MM POLICY-4: Improving Service Delivery

1. Critical to the success of these proposals and of efforts to improve the level of

service delivery to the burgesses is increased funding and well-managed

systems. In this regard, the Municipal Corporation should be allowed to retain

all rates, taxes, fees, and fines collected from its burgesses – residential and

corporate – and other persons, including the usual rates and taxes, new user

fees to be levied for services, such as entry to the selected attractions, and

fines collected by a Municipal Court.

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District Policies and Proposals

Introduction

The generation of strategic district policies and proposals is undertaken in the

context of the Development Goal and Strategic Vision for the Municipality and

the determination of objectives that came out of that process. Essentially, the

objectives are aimed at securing:

12. Reduced poverty levels;

13. Viable and meaningful jobs created within the Municipality;

14. Infrastructure in place to ensure sustainable economic growth;

15. Public-private partnerships in achieving comprehensive transformation;

16. Sustainable and socially integrated communities with affordable quality

housing and easy access to modern physical and social infrastructure

facilities;

17. Optimisation of the tourism/ecotourism, agriculture, quarry, fisheries,

recreation, manufacturing, trade and service sectors to the benefit of the

Region‟s people;

18. Sustainable management and conservation of natural resources, agricultural

lands and heritage resources;

19. More integrated and coordinated Municipality and communities;

20. Safe, distinctive, well-connected, efficient and aesthetically pleasing urban

and rural areas and rejuvenated areas;

21. Reduction in climate change and natural disaster risks to lives, property and

the environment; and

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22. Efficiently managed Region.

The overall Development Strategy for the Municipality is provided in the Strategic

Framework Chapter.

Common Polices

The continued promotion and support of community-led tourism projects is expected

to be expanded and the model documented for use within the Region and by others

to develop their own community led projects.

Some community facilities including social, public, and protective services that will be

provided throughout the Municipality are ECCECs, homes and day care

accommodation for the elderly. Sports and recreation grounds will be either

developed or improved in all settlements to improve health, and to help strengthen

community activity and cohesion. Police Stations or police posts will be placed in

communities based on standards to be determined by the Ministry of National

Security (MNS).

Full use will be made of existing facilities, particularly schools and community centres

where they exist, to multi-function for various purposes, for example, as the base for

some public services including libraries, and internet and information centres. Some

facilities will be grouped to service multiple communities and sub-regions for

economic reasons and to create a physical focal point at which the community would

be able to meet and develop relationships.

Attention will be given to the entire range of public utilities, infrastructure, and

transportation proposals. Improvements will be made to effect the following:

Water supply infrastructure to provide safe pipe-borne water to all homes;

Sewerage infrastructure appropriate to protect the health, safety, and welfare

of the residents, and to prevent pollution of the terrestrial and aquatic

environments;

Drainage infrastructure including retention ponds as proposed in the Drainage

Division, for example, for stormwater management and flood prevention;

A reliable supply of electricity, with attention given to remote areas where

supply is unreliable or inaccessible;

Telecommunications infrastructure adequate to meet the needs of wireless

residential and business activities;

Collection and disposal arrangements and facilities for domestic, commercial,

industrial, and agricultural solid waste;

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Improvement and upgrading of the general condition of roads throughout the

Municipality; and

An efficient system of public transportation.

District Polices and Proposals

The following are the District Policies and Proposals for the seven sub-regions within

the Sangre Grande Municipality, namely:

Town of Sangre Grande;

Greater Sangre Grande;

M2M;

Valencia;

Greater Tamana;

Manzanilla; and

Fishing Pond/North Manzanilla.

Town of Sangre Grande (TG)

The town of Sangre Grande will retain its position as the major centre in the

Municipality and will witness improvements to its functioning, provision of services

and aesthetic appeal. The town will retain its heritage character and personality and

will remain the major provider of public and commercial services to eastern Trinidad

and elsewhere. The town will be a major provider of employment opportunities in the

State and private sectors and will be the focal point for the provision of higher level

services for its wider catchment, eastern Trinidad and elsewhere. The town will

become important as a regional location for major sporting and cultural activities and

will witness the establishment of agro-industrial activities in keeping with the

character of its catchment area. With the cooperation of the private sector, the town

will offer cheaper, safe and cleaner commercial space to attract business

opportunities in keeping with the development of the UTT campus and its own

tourism/ecotourism thrust.

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TG POLICY -1: Distribution of Built Development

A major determinant of the nature of town expansion in the town of Sangre Grande

is the intended expansion of the CRH from Wallerfield to Manzanilla which passes the

town to the north, the development of the Sangre Grande Ring Road to south and

the eventual development of the final leg of the TRRTS from Arima to Sangre

Grande. It is anticipated that there will be a northerly and southerly expansion of the

town centre, and along the secondary linkages of these systems. However, a

significant expansion of the town will occur outside the time horizon of this Plan,

particularly in respect of the influence of the rail system.

Two major developments are being proposed for the Sangre Grande town centre,

namely Vision City and Pueblo Nuevo. Both projects require huge private sector

investment and strong public sector-private sector commitment and cooperation in

order to become a reality, and the conduct of either one or both of these projects will

have tremendous impact on town life and the way it operates and does business.

The Pueblo Nuevo Town Centre development will be located on 6.5 hectares of land

in central Sangre Grande, bordered by Andre Street in the west, the Eastern Main

Road to the north and east, and the Cunapo River to the south. The second

development is the proposed Vision City will be developed on 13.4-hectare of land

and to be located on the eastern fringe of Sangre Grande, bordered by the Guaico

River to the north, Quash (Crown) Trace Extension to the east and the Toco Main

Road to the south. These projects will include the development of multi-storied office

building, a major new supermarket, a cineplex, an administration complex, a

10,000-person auditorium and a two-storied parkade with a capacity for 300

vehicles.

TG POLICY -2: Local Area Planning

A local area plan will be prepared for the town in the short term that will guide its

development over a 10-year horizon. This plan will refine the policy with respect to

the intended spatial expansion of the town and will adjust it accordingly based on all

the activities that are expected to take place. The Plan will be monitored and revised

periodically and will include, among other things, the treatment of the economy,

population distribution and density, land use allocations by type, the provision of

housing, the location of market places, the provision of lands for productive and

employment activities and of physical and social infrastructure, urban design,

recreation and conservation.

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TG POLICY-3: Urban Design

Urban design treatment will be one of the areas covered in the local area plan noted

above. The urban design treatment will place emphasis on the functional and

aesthetical improvements of the centre and will include the provision of significant

high-quality gateway features at all entrances to the centre and features of identity

in various parts of the town, the interface between the pedestrian and vehicular

movement, improvements to streetscapes to include tree planting along the major

roadways, management of signage and advertising, overhead utility lines, lighting

and security, vehicular circulation and the related on and off-street parking, public

plazas, and an interconnected system of open spaces. Urban design treatment will

consider the form, appearance, height and bulk of new development within the

context of the need to retain the rural character of the town and provide a Town

Centre Design Framework for keynote projects to be undertaken within its

boundaries.

TG POLICY-4: Population

The population of Sangre Grande will grow to 22,470 by the year 2020, representing

an average annual rate of growth of 2.4 percent since 2000. The population of the

town will grow through natural increase but mainly through in-migration from other

parts of the East-West Corridor, representing 28.1 percent of the total anticipated

population.

TG POLICY-5: Housing

The population for the centre in 2020 will reside in 5,405 dwelling units and this will

be in the form of a mix of densities with a greater tendency for higher densities

towards the core and at major nodal points. The increase in population will largely be

accommodated through infilling on the vacant lands within existing boundaries and

through possible town expansion. Population densities and the form of new

development will be detailed in the local area planning for the town. The proposed La

Aurora Gated Community development on a 13-hectare site south of the Sangre

Grande town centre will produce 76 residential plots, 45 villa lots, and 32 town house

units. The Picton Road Extension sub-division of 8.2 hectares will convert these lands

into residential plots (partly regularisation of existing development).

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TG POLICY-6: Economy

The key economic activities for this sub-region will be:

Agriculture/Agricultural Marketing and Distribution;

Industrial Development – mainly agro-processing and light manufacturing;

Sports and Events Tourism;

Financial Services;

Commerce and Distribution, including development of micro and small

businesses; and

Upgraded Public Services and Administration.

TG POLICY-7: Transportation

Apart from the upgrade of all major roads into Rio Claro, the main transportation

proposals for the Sangre Grande town centre will be the expansion of CRH which will

pass north of the town centre, the development of the Sangre Grande Southern Ring

Road, and the development of the Arima to Sangre Grande leg of the TRRTS. The

upgrading of the public transport system and development of a transit hub for maxi-

taxis and taxis hub will facilitate intra-regional and interregional travel. A facility is

also proposed to cater for the demand for increased parking within the area. The

Sangre Grande town centre will be reconfigured to become a walkable centre, and so

attention will be given to the development of appropriate pedestrian right-of-way

networks, and bicycle and motorcycle rights-of-way and parking facilities.

TG POLICY-8: Social Facilities

A number of social facilities will form part of the infrastructure available in this major

centre, thus improving and strengthening the delivery of social services to the

Region. The following is carded for development in this sub-region – the SGRC

Administration Centre, Judiciary Centre, Fire Station (already built), Enhanced

Primary Health Care Facility and an Upgraded Sangre Grande Hospital, a Learning

Resource Centre, and a Sports Stadium and Indoor Facility and Youth Facility.

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TG POLICY-9: Physical Infrastructure and Public Utilities

The Sangre Grande booster station and water distribution system will be upgraded to

ensure that WASA‟s goals of at least 70 percent of the population get at least four

days of pipeline water supply per week are met in Sangre Grande. Wastewater

management will be tackled in a meaningful way with the development and

operation of the Sangre Grande STP which is expected to service the Sangre

Grande/North Oropouche catchment area. Attention will be given to improved

stormwater control and landslide hazard control. Drainage works must be carried out

along the Guaico River and in the context of a sub-regional drainage action plan.

Collaboration will be required among stakeholders in the development of this action

plan.

Greater Sangre Grande (GS)

GS POLICY-1: Distribution of Built Development

This corridor is essentially a ribbon of seven villages strung out along the main roads

in the sub-region and consists of Coal Mine, Sangre Chiquito, Turure, Maraj Hill,

Guaico, Oropouche, and Cunaripo.

The Plan will see the villages expanding modestly in population and this will take the

form of infilling within the existing communities and possibly new housing

development. Much of the development will be in direct response to activities taking

place in the town centre and the continued eastward expansion of the East-West

Corridor. The plan proposes the establishment of lower-order facilities to satisfy the

needs of the local communities. However, the service needs of this area will be

provided mainly by the town centre.

GS POLICY-2: Local Area Planning

A development study will be prepared for this sub-region that will review its existing

conditions within the area. The study will provide recommendations with respect to

the detailed form and pattern of development of this area for the next 10 years and

will refine the policies contained in this strategic municipal plan. The study will pay

particular attention to the improvement to the spatial economy and the provision of

housing, the provision of services, physical infrastructure, urban design and

recreation in creation to its role as a satellite area to the town centre.

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GS POLICY-3: Urban Design

Urban design treatment will be one of the areas covered in the development study

above. The urban design treatment will significantly consider the heritage and

cultural context the sub-region and the neighbouring town centre. The urban design

solutions will address the issue of capitalising on the existing character of the area

with a view to enhancing the streetscape elements, the provision of shade trees,

street furniture, pedestrian paths, lighting and security, improved public spaces and

green areas, the treatment of advertising signage and overhead utility lines.

GS POLICY-4: Population

The population in this sub-region will grow by 3,318 persons by 2020 giving a total

of 13,485 at an annual growth rate of 1.8 percent. The population at this time will be

16.9 percent of the total municipal population.

GS POLICY-5: Housing

The population of the sub-region by 2020 will be accommodated in 3,455 dwelling

units, with most being single family units and multi-family structures in the

traditional form of single family houses or houses with one unit on either of two

floors or duplexes.

GS POLICY-6: Economy


Ecotourism/Agro-tourism/Community Tourism;

Agriculture/Agro-processing;

Quarrying;

Commerce and Distribution, including the development of micro and small

businesses.

GS POLICY-7: Transportation

The major road works for this area will be the upgrading of the main roads and the

internal road network within the Corridor including the upgrade of agricultural and

quarry roads. Public transport services will be improved by the PTSC to facilitate

intra-regional and interregional travel.

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GS POLICY-8: Social Facilities

Social services along the Corridor - educational and recreational facilities will be

upgraded to meet the changing needs.

GS POLICY-9: Physical Infrastructure and Public Utilities

Public water supply and distribution system in the settlements in the Corridor and

environs will be improved to ensure that at least 70 percent of the population will get

at least four days of pipeline water supply per week. Community-based water system

will be supported. Improved wastewater management will be facilitated with the

development and operation of the Sangre Grande STP proposed by WASA within the

Municipality. Attention will be given to improved stormwater control and landslide

hazard control and landslide control. Drainage works should be carried out in the

context of a sub-regional drainage action plan.

Matura to Matelot (MT)

MT POLICY-1: Distribution of Built Development

This area is essentially a ribbon of 15 villages strung out along the Toco and Paria

Main Roads and the neighbouring lands, most of which are protected or agricultural.

The communities include Anglais Settlement, Balandra, Grand Riviere, L‟Anse Noir,

Mahoe, Matelot, Matura, Mission, Monte Video, Rampanalgas, Salybia Village, San

Souci, Toco, Tompire and Cumana. One of the main characteristics of this area is its

high aesthetic appeal or rugged coastline against a backdrop of forest covered

mountains. The sub-region also forms the Northeast Trinidad Tourism Anchor.

The plan will see the villages expanding marginally in population and this will take

the form of infilling within the existing communities and expansion in a northerly and

southerly direction into the lands main roads. There will be no further expansion of

ribbon development within this Corridor. An important determinant of the future

expansion of built development in this sub-region will be the expansion of

tourism/ecotourism and the development of a port in Toco, and associated spinoff

activities which will be important employment opportunities in the area.

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MT POLICY-2: Local Area Planning

A local area plan will be developed for the development of Toco and neighbouring

communities over a 10-year horizon. This plan will refine the policy with respect to

the intended spatial expansion of the town and will adjust it accordingly. The Plan

will be monitored and revised periodically and will include, among other things, the

treatment of economy, population distribution and density, land use allocations by

type, the provision of housing, employment, the location of market places, physical

and social infrastructure provision, urban design, recreation and conservation. It is

intended that the core of the town will remain at the existing location. The plan will

be informed by the development of a Sangre Grande Ecotourism Strategy which will

provide recommendations for holistic development Northeast Trinidad Tourism

Anchor and M2M ecotourism product.

MT POLICY-3: Urban Design

Urban design treatment will be one of the areas covered in the development study

for the nodal area identified above. The treatment will ensure that the village

character of the area is maintained, with enhancement of the streetscape along the

main road, the provision of shade trees, street furniture, pedestrian sidewalks,

lighting and security, improved public spaces and the management of advertising

signage and overhead utility lines.

MT POLICY-4: Population

It is estimated that the population of the area will grow modestly within the plan

horizon to 8,508 persons, having 10.6 percent of the total municipal population and

with an average annual growth rate of 1.7 percent to 2020. It is expected that the

population of the corridor, will be focused in the Cumana, Grand Riviere and Matura

areas.

MT POLICY-5: Housing

The population for the corridor in 2020 will be accommodated in 2,794 dwelling

units, with a significant proportion of this housing being vacation homes and

accommodation. These dwelling units will be in the form of single and multi-family

structures in the traditional form of single family houses or houses with one unit on

either of two floors or duplexes. The density and form of new housing will respect the

existing village character of the community.

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MT POLICY-6: Economy


Resort Tourism/Ecotourism/Agro-tourism/Community Tourism;


Fishing/Fish Processing;

Financial Services in Toco;

Enhanced Public Services;

Nature Conservation;


businesses.

There are number of infrastructural facilities strategically required within the various

communities which must be developed to improve resident and visitor tourism

experience. They include the following:

Development and upgrading of tourism facilities – which include provision of

concessionaries, administrative facilities, lifeguard quarters, public change,

tourism information centres, car park facilities on main beaches - Manzanilla

Bay, Balandra Bay, San Souci Bay, Big Bay, Shark River, Grand Riviere,

Matura River, Broad Walk Fishing Pond.

Provision of life guards on frequently used beaches;

Upgrading of heritage structures – Galera Lighthouse, including the

development of car parking facilities;

Community-led management of tourism facilities, open spaces and

recreational facilities.

Development of a heritage centre which provides information about the

natural and cultural history of the area.

The development of a Farm and Agricultural Resource Management (FARM) Centre-

will organise and apply the existing reservoir of agricultural knowledge and

experience in the region, while conducting the studies necessary for charting the

best course for the future. In addition, there is need to explore the development of

organic agriculture niche for crops coming out of the area. These have been

highlighted a major proposal in Alternative Development Plan prepared by residents

of the M2M.

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MT POLICY -7: Transportation

The major road works for this area are the upgrading of the Toco and Paria Main

Roads and the internal road network within the district, including its agricultural

roads. Port development will require a widening of the Toco Main Road. Public

transport services will be improved by the PTSC to facilitate intra-regional and

interregional travel. The town centre will be redesigned to become walkable centre,

thus attention will be given to the development of appropriate pedestrian and bicycle

and motorcycle rights-of-way and parking facilities.

MT POLICY-8: Social Facilities

However, number of social facilities will form part of the amenities available in Toco

as a major centre, thus improving and strengthening the delivery of social services

within the sub-region. Consideration will be given to the development of a multi-

purpose facility which should cater for the conduct of productive and social activities.

Educational and health facilities will be upgraded to meet the changing needs and

the neighbouring communities. Recreational and open spaces in the area will be

upgraded and children playgrounds developed for the area. Community centres will

be upgraded in particular an upgrading of the Grand Riviere centre is urgently

needed.

MT POLICY-9: Physical Infrastructure and Public Utilities



at least four days of pipe borne water supply per week, particularly in Matura and in

Matelot. Improved wastewater management will be facilitated with the development

and operation of the Toco and Balandra STPs which are expected to service the Toco

and Balandra catchment areas. Attention will be given to improved stormwater

control and landslide hazard control and landslide control. Addressing coastal erosion

and coastal defence is a major priority particularly for along the North Coast where

the Coastal Protection Study has been conducted. A similar exercise is required for

the East Coast. Drainage works must be carried out in the context of a sub-regional

drainage action plan which should be developed for the area.

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Valencia (VA)

Valencia consists essentially of the town centre and the surrounding communities of

Valencia, Melajo and Cumaca located some 12.1 kilometres of the town centre. The

area also forms parts of several protected areas including the Matura Reserve and

National Park, Valencia Reserve, Long Stretch Reserve and the Aripo Savannas Strict

Nature Reserve.

Valencia will retain its position as the major urban centre on the eastern coast of the

country. The centre will retain and enhance its traditional small-town charm,

historical and cultural importance as gateway to the Municipality of Sangre Grande,

the Sangre Grande town centre and M2M sub-region and will witness improvements

to its functioning, provision of services and aesthetic appeal. The town will be

provide some level of housing accommodation and higher level services to service

the UTT which will be within 10 minutes of its boundaries. The town will continue to

cater persons involved in the quarries industry and to visitors on their way to

recreational, leisure and ecotourism activities within the sub-region and the rest of

the Municipality. However the expansion of the CRH is likely to reduce traffic and

some commercial activities into the area. It is intended that there will be some

benefits to the community based on better control and management of the quarries

industry, rehabilitation of the Long Stretch reserve and the Savannas Strict Nature

Reserve in the Region.

VA POLICY-1: Distribution of Built Development

An important influence on the nature of town expansion for Valencia will be the

location of new housing development in the area which will cater for student and

staff accommodation and in-migration from person seeking housing along the East-

West Corridor. The town centre for Valencia should continue to expand mainly

through infilling of lands in the existing town centre and along the Valencia Road.

The amount of development which takes place within Valencia may depend largely

on outside forces. Some of the anticipated expansion of the town will occur outside

the time horizon of this Plan as the Tamana InTech Park continues to develop and

the other major projects in other neighbouring municipalities offer opportunities.

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VA POLICY-2: Local Area Planning

A local area plan will be prepared for the town that will guide its development over a

10-year horizon. This plan will be refine the policy with respect to the intended

spatial expansion of the town and will adjust it accordingly. The Plan will be

monitored and revised periodically and will include, among other things, the

treatment of economy, population distribution and density, land use allocations by

type, the provision of housing, employment provision lands, the location of market

places, physical and social infrastructure provision, urban design, recreation and

conservation. It is intended that the core of the town will remain at the existing

location. The plan will devote special attention to the rehabilitation of abandoned

quarry lands and the opportunities presented for a mix of activities, from

conservation to fishing farming, active and passive recreation, and recreation and

heritage tourism potential of the town and its immediately adjacent environs.

VA POLICY-3: Urban Design

Urban design treatment will be one of the areas covered in the local area plan noted

above. The urban design treatment will significantly consider the particular heritage

and cultural history of the town and that of the wider community within which it falls.

The urban design treatment will emphasise the functional and aesthetical

improvements of the centre and will include the provision of significant, high-quality

gateway features at all entrances to the town, the interface between the pedestrian

and vehicular movement, improvements to streetscapes, management of signage

and advertising, overhead utility lines, vehicular circulation and the related on and

off-street parking, lighting and security, public plazas, and an interconnected system

of open spaces. Urban design treatment will consider the form, appearance, height

and bulk of new development within the context of the need to retain the particular

rural character of the town and will not take the form of mid-high rise structures.

Consideration will be give to the rejuvenation of some of the older housing

settlements within the area.

VA POLICY-4: Population

The population of Valencia will grow by another 3,154 to 12,094 by the year 2020,

representing an average annual rate of growth of 3.8 percent since 2000. The

population would grow through natural increase and in-migration and would

accommodate 15.1 percent of the total proposed municipal population.

VA POLICY-5: Housing

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The population for the town in 2020 will reside in 2,741 dwelling units and this will

be in the form of a mix of densities with a greater tendency for higher densities

towards the town centre. The density, form, height and appearance of new housing

development will benefit from the consideration of the need to maintain the

character of the centre and will not take the form of mid-high rise structures. A

significant addition to the housing stock in the area will be the La Viviendas

development being undertaken by the Public Services Association on a 6.9 hectare

site at the corner of Valencia Road and San Pedro Trace. This development

comprises 103 residential units in 30 single-family and 73 town-house units, a

convenience plaza, clubhouse, gym and spa. In addition, there is need to continue

the programme of squatter regularisation in the area, particularly the relocation of

squatters from the Long Stretch and Aripo Savannas Reserves.

VA POLICY-6: Economy


Agriculture/Agro-processing – livestock production, vegetable, root crop and

tree crop production;

Quarrying;

Tourism/Ecotourism;

Financial Services;


businesses; and

Upgraded Public Services and Administration.

VA POLICY-7: Transportation

The main transportation proposals for Valencia include the expansion of the CRH

which is expected to reduce the volume of traffic passing through Valencia, and an

improvement in services by the PTSC to facilitate improved intra-regional and

interregional travel. The town centre will be redesigned to become a walkable centre,

and as a result attention will be given to the development of appropriate pedestrian

and bicycle and motorcycle rights-of-way and parking facilities. Major roads leading

to and from Central Valencia will be upgraded and maintained in keeping with the

Thematic Proposals. The Cumaca Road will be completed to ensure connectivity of

the community with the rest of the sub-region and Municipality. Upgrading will be

required to certain sections of the Valencia Road.

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VA POLICY-8: Social Facilities

A number of social facilities will form part of the social facilities available in this

major centre, thus improving and strengthening the delivery of social services within

the sub-region and the Municipality as a whole. All recreational facilities and grounds

within this district will be upgraded. Educational and health facilities will be upgraded

to meet the changing needs of Valencia.

VA POLICY-9: Physical Infrastructure and Public Utilities

Public water supply and distribution system in the settlements will be improved to

ensure that at least 70 percent of the population will get at least four days of pipe

borne water per week. Wastewater management will be tackled in a meaningful way

with the development and operation of the centralised wastewater treatment system

to cater to the Wallerfield/Valencia catchment area. Attention will be given to

improved stormwater management and control and so drainage works must be

carried out in the context of a sub-regional drainage action plan to be developed in

the short term.

Greater Tamana (GT)

GT POLICY-1: Distribution of Built Development

This area is essentially a ribbon of seven villages strung out along the main roads of

the area. The main centres include Cumuto and Tamana and the smaller villages -

Four Roads Tamana, Guatopajaro, Howsen Village, Carmichael, and Coryal. The Plan

will see the villages consolidating and expanding marginally in population, taking the

form of infilling within the existing communities. There will be some expansion in

Cumuto mainly due to increase housing demand in the area driven by the

development of the Tamana InTech Park and UTT Main Campus. Much of the growth

of Greater Tamana will depend on activities at the Park, and development of

ecotourism in the more far-flung areas.

GT POLICY-2: Local Area Planning

A local area plan will be developed for the development of Cumuto which

rationalising the development of the neighbouring communities over a 10-year

horizon. This plan will be refine the policy with respect to the intended spatial

expansion of the town and will adjust it accordingly. The Plan will be monitored and

revised periodically and will include, among other things, the treatment of economy,

population distribution and density, land use allocations by type, the provision of

housing, employment provision lands, the location of market places, physical and

132

social infrastructure provision, urban design, recreation and conservation. It is

intended that the core of the town will remain at the existing location. The plan will

be informed by the development of a Sangre Grande Ecotourism Strategy which will

provide recommendations for holistic ecotourism development in Greater Tamana.

GT POLICY-3: Urban Design

Urban design treatment will be one of the areas covered in the local area plan. The

treatment will ensure that the village character of the area is maintained, with

enhancement of the streetscape along the main road, the provision of shade trees,

street furniture, pedestrian sidewalks, lighting and security, improved public spaces

and the management of advertising signage and overhead utility lines.

GT POLICY-4: Population

The population of Valencia will grow to 12,352 by the year 2020 with most of this

growth in Cumuto, representing an average annual rate of growth of 1.9 percent

since 2000. The population would grow mainly through the presence of the Park and

UTT Campus in the vicinity. The sub-region will accommodate 15.4 percent of the

total proposed municipal population.

GT POLICY-5: Housing

The population for the corridor in 2020 will be accommodated in 3,141 dwelling

units. These dwelling units will be in the form of single and multi-family structures in

the traditional form of single family houses or houses with one unit on either of two

floors or duplexes. The density and form of new housing will respect the existing

village character of the community.

GT POLICY-6: Economy


Resort Tourism/Ecotourism/Agro-tourism/Community Tourism;


Financial Services in Cumuto;

Enhanced Public Services;

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businesses.

GT POLICY-7: Transportation

The major road works for this area are the upgrading of the sub-region‟s main roads

and the internal road network within the district, including its agricultural roads.

Public transport services will be improved by the PTSC to facilitate intra-regional and

interregional travel. The Cumuto town centre will be redesigned to become walkable

centre, thus attention will be given to the development of appropriate pedestrian and

bicycle and motorcycle rights-of-way and parking facilities.

GT POLICY-8: Social Facilities

However, number of social facilities will form part of the social facilities available in

Cumuto as a major centre, thus improving and strengthening the delivery of social

services within the sub-region. Consideration will be given to the development of a

multi-purpose facility which should cater for the conduct of productive and social

activities.

Educational and health facilities will be upgraded to meet the changing needs and

the neighbouring communities. Recreational and open spaces in the area will be

upgraded and children playgrounds developed for the area. Community centres will

be upgraded as required.

GT POLICY-9: Physical Infrastructure and Public Utilities

Public water supply and distribution system in the settlements in the sub-region will

be improved to ensure that at least 70 percent of the population get at least four

days of pipe borne water supply per week. The area forms part of the Sangre Grande

wastewater catchment area and so improved wastewater management will be

facilitated with the development and operation of the proposed STP for the area.

Attention will be given to improved storm-water control and landslide hazard control

and landslide control partly through recommendations of the North Oropouche Flood

Mitigation Study. Drainage works should however be carried out in the context of a

sub-regional drainage action plan.

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Manzanilla (MA)

MA POLICY-1: Distribution of Built Development

This area is essentially rural in characteristics stretching from inland agricultural

communities to coastal community of Manzanilla. The major feature of this corridor is

its laid back environment and scenic coastal vistas, making it a sub-region of high

aesthetic value. Part of the region forms part of the East Coast Scenic Corridor.

The area is made up of Biche, Manzanilla, Plum Mitan and Caigual. Built development

in the Plan period will be restricted to the existing traditional settlements. Built

development south of village of Manzanilla will be contained to ensure mimimal

disturbance of the seascape. Recreational use will be encouraged throughout the

East Coast Corridor, eco-type uses and activities will be encouraged south of the

Manzanilla village due to the swamp ecosystems found in this area.

MA POLICY-2: Urban Design

Urban design treatment for this district will include the establishment of a major

gateway feature at the northern entrance to predict in the East Coast Corridor. In

addition, the Plan proposes the retention of the coconut estates along the

Manzanilla-Mayaro Road because of the high amenity value and contribution to the

unique character of the zone.

The plan proposes the overriding maintenance of large stands of coconut trees within

all resort projects as an integral aspect of the development of the area.

MA POLICY-3: Population

The population in this sub-region will grow modestly within the plan horizon to 4,427

persons, having 5.5 percent of the total municipal population and with an average

annual rate of growth of 1.9 percent to 2020.

MA POLICY-4: Housing

The population for the sub-region in 2020 will be accommodated in 1,263 dwelling

units.

137

MA POLICY-5: Economy


Fishing and Fish Processing;


Resort Tourism, Events Tourism, Nature Tourism, Ecotourism/Agro-tourism


businesses; and

MA POLICY-6: Transportation

The major road works for this area will be the expansion of the CRH, the upgrading

of the EMR and Mayaro-Manzanilla Road and the internal road network within the

Corridor, including the agricultural roads. Public transport services will be improved

by the PTSC to facilitate intra-regional and interregional travel.

MA POLICY -7: Social Facilities


upgraded to meet the changing needs within the district.

MA POLICY-8: Physical Infrastructure and Public Utilities





development and operation of the individual wastewater systems and improved on-

lot septic tanks and soakaway systems. Attention will be given to improved

stormwater control and landslide hazard control and landslide control. Drainage

works must be carried out in the context of a sub-regional drainage action plan.

Coastal defence works will be undertaken to address coastal erosion along the

southeast coastline.

138

Fishing Pond/North Manzanilla (FM)

FM POLICY-1: Distribution of Built Development

There are four rural villages (Fishing Pond, Morin Bay, North Manzanilla and Brooklyn

Settlement) forming a linear development along the main secondary roads of the

sub-region. Policy for this corridor will result in a continuation of the current pattern

of residential use. There will be some consolidation of the ribbon development in the

Fishing Pond.

The plan will see the villages expanding marginally in population and this will take

the form of infilling within the existing communities and expansion in a northerly and

southerly direction into the lands main roads. There will be no further expansion of

ribbon development within this Corridor. An important determinant of the future

expansion of built development in this sub-region will be the expansion of

tourism/ecotourism and the development of a port in Toco, and associated spinoff

activities which will be important employment opportunities in the area.

FM POLICY-2: Population

The population in this sub-region will grow to 6,664 persons by 2020 at an annual

growth rate of 1.3 percent. By this time, the sub-regional population will account for

8.3 percent of the total municipal population.

FM POLICY-3: Housing

The population of the sub-region by 2020 will be accommodated in 1,901 dwelling

units, with most being single family units and multi-family structures in the

traditional form of single family houses or houses with one unit on either of two

floors or duplexes.

139

FM POLICY-4: Economy

The key economic activities for Fishing Pond/North Manzanilla will be:

Ecotourism/Agro-tourism/Community Tourism;

Agriculture/Agro-processing – mainly vegetable, tree crop production, rice

production;


businesses.

Improvements are needed in infrastructure to accommodate community based

ecotourism ventures.

FM POLICY-5: Transportation

The major road works for this area will be the upgrading of the main access roads

and the agricultural access roads. Public transport services will be improved by the

PTSC to facilitate intra-regional and interregional travel.

FM POLICY-6: Social Facilities


upgraded to meet the changing needs.

FM POLICY-7: Physical Infrastructure and Public Utilities





development and operation of the individual wastewater systems and improved on-

lot septic tanks and soakaway systems. Attention will be given to improved

stormwater control and landslide hazard control and landslide control. Drainage

works must be carried out in the context of a sub-regional drainage action plan.

Coastal defence works will be undertaken to address coastal erosion along the

southeast coastline.

140

Implementation

The Plan is to be implemented over the next 10 years, although some of the

programmes and projects will not be completed during that time frame.

Implementation Mechanisms

Proper development management and adequate and sustained funding are pre-

requisites to implementation of the Plan. Public-private sector partnerships are made

critical by the magnitude of the task of resolving the existing issues and forestalling

future problems, by the limits to the capability of Central Government and the SGRC,

and by the extent of private ownership of some of the resources. The participation of

the affected communities is no less significant if the Plan is to have the support of

the burgesses and to make a positive difference in their lives.

Management of Development

The successful implementation of the development proposals requires concerted

action on the part of both Central and Local Government, assisted by civil society. It

is, therefore, necessary to build managerial competence and capacity in all of the

relevant public sector agencies in particular, in planning, finance, and service

provision. The current uncoordinated approach to planning and implementation of

public sector projects will be replaced by a system which almost mandates

collaboration of the relevant agencies.

The establishment of the Coordinating Committee referred to earlier will serve to

assist the management of the entire development process. This Committee should

141

comprise of persons with the requisite training and with commitment to the task of

ensuring sustainable development of the Municipality. There also has to be a

willingness to allow the participation of civil society, including the land developers,

environmentalists, NGOs and CBOs as co-managers in the process, and an ability to

manage partnerships and resolve conflicts with these groups.

Funding

The PSIP will continue to be a significant source of funding for those programmes

and projects to be undertaken by the SGRC, MLG, or other Central Government

agency. These include the preparation of more detailed or focused plans, a number

of large projects, and the infrastructural programmes and projects – both social and

physical. Some housing will be funded by the HDC with partial cost recovery through

the sale or rental of the properties, and by the LSA as part of squatter regularisation

and upgrading schemes.

The funding situation of the SGRC will be improved if the agency is allowed to

introduce and retain user fees, for example, to enter attractions (which would also

serve to reduce visitation levels), and fines for infractions of the legislation.

The considerable resources of the Green Fund can be accessed by community based

groups to undertake reforestation projects on degraded Northern Range land in

collaboration with the Forestry Division.

Public-Private Sector Partnerships will be required for many of the projects. For

example, with respect to the proposals to develop the eco-tourism sector in the

lagging regions, the State would be required to invest in basic infrastructure and

services and to provide incentives to encourage the participation of the private sector

in the provision of tourism accommodation facilities and services. Incentives may

also be given to private land owners to encourage them to engage in reforestation

projects or other ecologically-friendly forms of cultivation on their holdings.

Fees collected by the EMA in accordance with the „Polluter Pays‟ principle that is

included in the NEP should go to clean up pollution in the aquatic environment in the

Municipality.

Community Participation in the Development Process

It will be important for the Corporation to develop a register of NGOs and CBOs

operating in the Municipality. The SGRC will support the participation of groups which

are already engaged in developing their communities in one form or another, by

opening lines of communication with them. This requires a much closer collaboration

with the MCDCGA, more frequent presence of Corporation staff throughout the

142

Municipality, and particularly in the more isolated areas, and a willingness to take on

board the views of persons who, by and large, are well informed and knowledgeable

about local issues.

The Local Government Reform Programme does, in fact, require greater collaboration

between the Corporation and the communities under its jurisdiction and a greater

level of community participation in the process of planning and decision-making. This

can be achieved through inviting, encouraging and facilitating representation by

relevant stakeholder interests at statutory and other meetings of the Corporation.

This can be assisted if some of the meetings are scheduled within the communities,

particularly where a pressing issue of direct relevance to the community is to be

discussed.

As suggested by stakeholders and indicated in Chapter 4, the Corporation will give

consideration to stakeholder groups being represented on committees and or to form

committees that would have an input in the planning and management of their

communities. This would give to burgesses a vehicle for expressing their views, and

would help to ensure „buy-in‟ of development proposals. It would introduce a system

of checks and balances that is generally lacking from the current system of

governance.

The groups, however, need to be empowered and assisted with funding to participate in the various opportunities that might be available, for example, in eco-tourism or

reforestation projects.

Programmes and Projects

The projects that derive from the RDP are listed in Table 6.1 along with the main

agencies which will collaborate with the SGRC in getting them implemented. The RDC

or other relevant Special Purpose Company will also play a role in the process.

Monitoring and Review

The Plan will be monitored and kept under continuous review to determine the

effectiveness of the policies and programmes and to make adjustments as

necessary. The Coordinating Committee will be important in this regard. However,

less formal monitoring through the community groups will be just as critical.

It is intended to take the RDP through the approval process set out in Part 2 of the

Town and Country Planning Act. In this case, the legislation stipulates that at least

once in every five years after the date of approval by Parliament a fresh survey must

be carried out and a report on this together with “proposals for any alterations or

additions…that appear to… be required…” be submitted for approval.

143

Notwithstanding, proposals for alterations or additions to the Plan can be submitted

at any time.

144

DRAFT SANGRE GRANDE REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN – PROPOSED

PROGRAMMES AND PROJECTS

Programme

Number Programmes and Projects Targeted Localities

Implementing Agency/Agencies

Collaborating Agency/Agencies

Development Phases Project

Priority Rating

(1-3)

2010

/12

2013

/15

2016

/20

Sub-regional and Local Area Plans

1. Development of Sangre Grande Town

Centre Land Area Plan , including detailed urban design

Sangre Grande Town Centre

MLG/SGRC Public, Private, and

NGO and Community Sectors

2. Development of Valencia Land Plan, including detailed urban design

Valencia MLG/SGRC Public, Private, and


3. Development of M2M Sub-regional Plan,

including detailed urban design for Toco town centre

Matura to Matelot MLG/SGRC Public, Private, and


4. Development of Greater Tamana Sub-

regional Plan, including detailed urban design for Cumuto

Greater Tamana MLG/SGRC Public, Private, and


5. Landscape Plan for Sangre Grande Municipality MLG/SGRC Public, Private, and


Public-Private Sector Investment Projects

6. Development of Vision City Sangre Grande Town Centre

Private Sector SGRC/GoRTT

7. Development of Pueblo Nuevo Sangre Grande Town Centre

Private Sector SGRC/GoRTT

8. Eco-Sangre Grande Research and Development Programme

Municipality UWI/UTT SGRC, NEDCO, BDC, Private Sector

145

Programme





Priority Rating

(1-3)

2010

/12

2013

/15

2016

/20

Environmental

9. Eco Sangre Grande Environment

Programme – Forest Management, Public

Health, Improved Water Collection,

Handling and Safety, Waste Management, Health and Wellness, Climate Change

SGRC NGO and Community Sector, EMA, MOH

10. Co-management Conservation Programme

Municipality MALMR/ NGO and Community Sector

SGRC

11. Regulation of the Quarry Industry Valencia, Greater

Sangre Grande, Greater Tamana

MEEI SGRC/ Quarry Operators

12. Community-based reforestation Municipality National Reforestation

and Watershed

Rehabilitation Programme

SGRC

13. Rehabilitation of Abandoned Quarries Valencia MEEI/SGRC Quarry Operators

Economic Development

14. Development of Sangre Grande

Municipality Ecotourism Strategy and Action Plan

Municipality SGRC/TDC CBOs

15. Facilitating Community-led Ecotourism Tourism Initiatives

M2M, Greater

Tamana, Fishing

Pond, North

Manzanilla, Manzanilla

SGRC/TDC/CBOs Private Sector

16. Branding and Ecotourism Marketing SGRC/TDC NGO and Community

146

Programme





Priority Rating

(1-3)

2010

/12

2013

/15

2016

/20

Programme sector

17. Development of tourism facilities – which

include provision of concessionaries,

administrative facilities, lifeguard quarters,

public change, tourism information centres, car park facilities

At main beaches,

rivers and scenic

areas which include

Valencia,

Manzanilla Bay,

Salybia Bay,

Balandra Bay, San

Souci Bay, Big Bay,

Shark River, Grand

Riviere, Matura

River, Broad Walk

Fishing Pond,

Matelot River/Bay

TDC/SGRC CBOs

18. Provision of Lifeguard Services Salibya Bay, Sally

Bay, Manzanilla Bay, Balandra Bay

TDC SGRC

19. Research Tourism Initiative Matura National

Park, Aripo

Savannah

UWI/UTT SGRC, CBOs

20. Municipal Agriculture Rehabilitation Programme

Municipality SGRC/MALMR Municipal Farmers Associations

21. Development of a Farm and Agricultural Resource Management (FARM) Centre

MALMR/CBOs SGRC

22. Establishment of Eco-Sangre Grande Foods (Organic Farming) Programme

Agricultural areas MALMR/CBOs SGRC

147

Programme





Priority Rating

(1-3)

2010

/12

2013

/15

2016

/20

23. Development of agro-processing facilities SGRC/Private Sector Municipal Farmers Association

24. Development of wholesale market and refurbishment of the retail market


NAMDEVCO/SGRC Farmers, Wholesalers

and retailers of

agricultural produce and products

Transportation

25. Extension of the CRH From Antigua Road to Manzanilla

MOWT SGRC

26. Development of the Sangre Grande Southern Ring Road


MOWT SGRC

27. Road Maintenance Programmes

Central Government Main Roads

Agriculture Feeder Roads

Local Government Designated Roads

Municipality

MOWT

MALMR

SGRC

28. Feasibility Study for the Development of the Blanchisseuse-Matelot Road

MOWT SGRC

29. Feasibility Study of the Toco Port Facilities Toco Port Authority SGRC

30. Public Transportation Demand Study SGRC SGRC/MLG

Housing

31. Municipal Housing Development Programme

HDC SGRC

32. Municipal Squatter Regularisation Land Settlement SGRC

148

Programme





Priority Rating

(1-3)

2010

/12

2013

/15

2016

/20

Programme Agency

33. Green Building Code Country wide TCPD/MLG MLG, Municipal

Corporations, State Agencies, NGOs

Infrastructure and Public Utilities

34. Drainage Development and Maintenance Programme

Drainage Division

Local Government

Municipality

Drainage Division

SGRC

MOWT, CEPEP, URP

35. Municipal Flood Mitigation and Integrated Watershed Management Project

Municipality Drainage Division SGRC

36. Coastal Defence Works Programme

Development

Maintenance

M2M – North Coast

from Matelot to Toco

MOWT SGRC

37. Development of Municipal Water Sector Improvement Programme

Water Supply

Water Distribution

Greater Tamana

M2M

WASA SCRC

38. Asset Management Programme –

Inventory and Database Management (to feed into a national system)

Municipality SGRC All Ministries

39. Development of Gateways to the Municipality and Major Town Centres

Valencia, Manzanilla, Toco

SGRC

149

Programme





Priority Rating

(1-3)

2010

/12

2013

/15

2016

/20

40. Construction of Municipal Corporation Building


SGRC

41. Development of Sangre Grande Town

Centre Centralised Wastewater Treatment System


WASA

42. Upgrading of the Internet Network M2M, Greater Tamana

Telecommunications Service Providers

Social and Community Facilities and Services

43. Upgrading of recreational and sports grounds

Municipality SGRC MSYA, SCOTT

44. Development of Regional Centre of the Arts


SGRC MCDCGA, NGOs and CBOs

45. Redevelopment and Expansion of a Sangre Grande Hospital


MOH SGRC

46. Upgrading of Primary Health Care Facilities

Municipality MOH SGRC

47. Upgrading of Toco Hospital Toco MOH SGRC

48. Development of a Learning Resource Centre


SGRC

49. Development of Sangre Grande Judicial Complex


SGRC

50. Development of Indoor Sports and Youth Facility


SGRC

51. Development of network of CCTV systems Main town centres Trinidad and Tobago Police Service

150

Programme





Priority Rating

(1-3)

2010

/12

2013

/15

2016

/20

52. Development of Community Police Service

Trinidad and Tobago Police Service/SGRC

Municipal Management

53. Strengthening of the human resources of the SGRC

MLG/SGRC

54. Update of TCP legislation Ministry of Planning,

Housing and the Environment

55. Establishment of participatory process for

annual review and updating of the SG RDP

SGRC

56. Establishment of working committees for implementation of SG RDP

SGRC

sangre grande regional municipality grande regional corporation... · figure 1: location of sangre...

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