DCA asserts that Watts has not complied with provisions to submit permission for land use, but Watts says no lessee exists

The Development Control Authority (DCA) is seeking to clear the air on allegations made by Algernon “Serpent” Watts, the United Progressive Party (UPP) Candidate for St. George.

Last weekend, Watts accused the agency of deliberately stalling his efforts to erect a tent for a fundraising event.

He said he had begun to put up the tent, but was directed by DCA inspectors to stop the work and to get the relevant permissions.

Watts says he complied and, in order to have the venture approved, applied to the DCA by way of a letter.  However, he charges, since that time he has been blocked every step of the way.

In its defence, the DCA says that Watts sent what it terms a skeleton correspondence, dated February 22, 2022, requesting permission to erect a temporary structure.

The agency claims it was unable to consider the request without the supporting documents, and therefore advised Watts on what was required by the Authority to gain permission. 

This included seeking permission from the registered lease-holder, the St. George’s Community Alliance, and submitting the permission and structural drawings.

The DCA says it “cannot grant permission without ascertaining the rights an individual [has] to land, in which he/she submits a proposal.”

According to the Authority, Watts was advised to restore the area to its original state until the requirements were satisfied.  But Watts claims that attempts to get permission from the St. George’s Community Alliance failed, since it was discovered by him and his associates that the group does not exist.

The UPP Candidate has indicated that he will not stand for this type of political victimization.