
Tags: National Stadium Redevelopment, Johnathan Cook
Deputy British High Commissioner Johnathan Cook has hailed the upcoming redevelopment of Jamaica’s National Stadium as a bold and transformative project that represents more than just bricks and mortar, but rather a symbol of national pride, global competitiveness, and the deepening of UK–Jamaica relations.
Speaking on Wednesday as the Jamaican government provided a progress update on the multi-year redevelopment set to begin in earnest by August 2026, Cook said the UK was proud to stand alongside the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport in shaping a “bold vision” for a facility worthy of its global reputation.
“This project is more than just about infrastructure alone,” Cook said. “It’s about legacy, identity, and a symbol of Jamaican pride and global sporting excellence.”
The redevelopment, led by British firms Ryder Architecture and CAA Icon, is backed by UK Export Finance, which will provide critical funding support to ensure the modernisation of one of the Caribbean’s most storied sporting and cultural venues.
“The National Stadium is a globally iconic sport, music, and cultural venue,” Cook remarked. “This project will give it the facilities to match its global importance.”
He underscored that the involvement of UK companies and institutions goes beyond commercial interest, noting that the partnership is rooted in shared goals of development, resilience, and skills exchange.
“This partnership is a tangible demonstration of the UK’s trade strategy in action — fostering agile, mutually beneficial relationships with partners such as Jamaica,” he said. “By linking UK capabilities with Jamaica’s national priorities, we’re not only creating opportunities for trade and investment, we’re investing in human potential, cultural identity, and global competitiveness.”
Cook praised the feasibility study completed by Ryder Architecture and CAA Icon as “an important step in bringing this refreshed vision of the National Stadium to life,” and expressed optimism that the stadium would soon become a model regional hub for sport and culture.
He added, “Together, we are building more than a national stadium — we’re building a modern partnership rooted in innovation, and we remain committed to supporting Jamaica’s development goals.”
Construction on the upgraded facility is scheduled to begin in August 2026 and is expected to take three years to complete.