This magnificent structure should be retained as a space for purposes such as this impressive exhibition currently staged by creative talents like Laura Facey. It has history and presence and can be utilized as an important part of our downtown art district.

I live abroad but visit Jamaica regularly. Ormsby Hall was built in honour of the Rev Ormsby who helped his community tremendously after the 1907 earthquake. It is a symbol of honouring a man and a resilient community through the decades.

My first visit to Ormsby Hall was yesterday at the Pree Readings. I was impressed with the space but saddened by its deteriorating state. I do trust that the Anglican Church can be convinced and assisted to save the building rather than sell it to commercial interests to build an office complex.

I grew up in east Kingston and enjoyed many years of attending Concerts and other functions as a Scout. When I was older I remember being the MC for many functions including Quizes and Dramatic Competitons and other related youth activities. This building must be saved!

It already has high ceilings, great acoustics, raised flooring, great history. It should be renovated and preserved for live music, the arts, children’s and adults’ educational and creative classes. If we don’t create and maintain spaces for holistic and creative development, safe spaces, where do we hope to go as a country?

We have already lost too many of these historic buildings, and when I performed there at the opening of the stunning exhibition by Laura Facey on May 1st, I realized how amazing the natural acoustic of this beautiful building is!

Please safe this building. It is a lovely old building and we do not need to demolish it. I attend primary school there in the 70’s

Please save Ormsby Hall.