Decay & Disconnect: Exploring abandoned buildings and societal issues

DECAY AND DISCONNECT

EXPLORING ABANDONED BUILDING AND SOCIETAL ISSUES

NICKELA A. TAYLOR

These buildings, which were formerly teeming with life and purpose, now languish in various degrees of disrepair, the stories of neglect, hard times financially, and social problems resonating through their walls. Abandoned historical structures, once full of life and purpose, now stand as eerie reflections of a past long forgotten, tucked away among the modern environment. This photo essay explores the poignant intersection of history, architecture, and the dangers some of these building pose on people and the environment. Countries all around the world take great satisfaction in making sure that their capital cities are developed in accordance with changing times.

Downtown Kingston is the center hub of commercial activities in Jamaica. It is a place that those who want to experience Jamaica authentically visits. However, derelict structure pose a threat to the capital city’s development and those who are present in their surroundings. Abandoned buildings serve as silent witnesses to the passage of time and the intricacies of societal change in the peaceful pockets of Downtown Kingston and the overlooked peripheries of metropolitan landscapes.

Highlighting how these abandoned spaces serve as poignant reminders of the challenges faced by the poor and underserved communities, will encourage the need for preservation and revitalization efforts.

Through a series of evocative photographs, this project aims to shed light on the multifaceted impact of abandoned buildings on communities and individuals. By capturing the beauty in decay and the stories embedded in these forgotten spaces, This project seeks to provoke thought and spark conversations about the root causes of urban abandonment and the broader implications for society.

Historical buildings laying in ruins and abandonment

The city of Kingston is home to some of the most abandoned structures some of which are historical that are slowly decaying. Concerns about infrastructure developments are raised by this. Kingston’s historical growth has produced a large number of historically significant buildings, but they are becoming fewer in number. Historic structures have suffered because of more recent additions and/ or careless handling by the neighbourhood. These are instances where a structure may have been given new life through a change in use, but where the requirement for extra internal or external space to support enlarged or new functions later developed. One such buildings is the attorney general offices on the corner of Barry street and Church Street. The building’s terrible condition of decay has become apparent. The mentally ill and destitute now use the facility as a restroom. The Kingston and St. Andrew Corporation offices are located on Church Street, just a short distance from this building.

Fallen

113 years old (established in 1911)Attorney General offices at the corner of Barry Street and Church Street

rocks lay scattered hinting that the building is crumbling

The Colonial Bank of London, England first opened its doors on Harbour Street in 1837, marking the beginning of the National Commercial Bank Jamaica (NCB) building’s existence by about 187 years. The building was once home to the Kingston Central Police division, which was the last institution to occupy the building. The building has been abandoned since and is littered with documents, file cabinets and the walls and roofing is deteriorating. The building still has running water present and is used by homeless persons to take showers and for restroom purposes based on the odour that is present in the building.

Historical NCB building at 124 Harbour Street, once a symbol of prosperity,now lies in ruins, abandoned and repurposed as a dumping ground

File Cabinets labelled with different crimes left behind by at 124 Harbour Street

Homeless man returning from his shower inside old NCB Buiding

SAFETY HAZARDS

An abandoned building on Harbour street with a broken roof exposing steel

Deteriorating abandoned buildings pose a threat to the environment and public safety, endangering not only the occupants but also onlookers. As the buildings deteriorate, substances such as asbestos, paint containing lead, and other impurities could be discharged into the surroundings, exacerbating pollution and respiratory ailments. Mr. Ainsley Mills, lecturer for structural design and building services at the Caribbean School of Architecture, states that the load above and the columns of a building are examined from a structural point of view in order to identify when these buildings are dangerous.

According to Mr. Mills, the design of the supporting walls and columns limits how much weight they can hold. These aspects are susceptible to collapse if they are not designed appropriately. According to him, the reason some of these structures being dangerous is because of external factors like concrete erosion, which exposes steel from the buildings and puts people at risk.

Furthermore, he asserts that the age of the building might reveal whether or not construction materials remain intact. He gave the example of a lumber-frame building and said termites would be present if the building was not examined. According to Mr. Mills, internal leaks can lead to the deterioration of structures, and dampness can make buildings dangerous.

Neglected roof, plagued by leaking pipes and mold

The shuttered rum curing facility on Kingston’s Water Lane is a silent reminder of the city’s thriving history, which has since been reclaimed by nature.

SOCIAL CONSEQUENCES

Abandoned buildings are a common places for homeless people to find shelter and use for restrooms. A building that has been abandoned might offer momentary shelter from the weather, which is essential for survival, particularly in inclement weather conditions. But as these structures are usually not meant for habitation, homeless people may be seriously at risk for health issues. Poor sanitation, and structural flaws can all be found in dilapidated buildings, endangering the health and safety of its occupants. A structure that has been abandoned may become a center for criminal activity and drug use, putting homeless people in even greater danger and raising questions about public safety.

Vandalism can easily target abandoned properties. A building’s broken windows and graffiti are dead giveaways that it has been abandoned and neglected. These structures swiftly become dilapidated, endangering local businesses and property values, lowering community morale, and endangering local residents. These buildings’ blatant abandonment makes metal theft easy. When properties are obviously abandoned, items such as doors, lumber, and roof zincs are at risk. Hazardous items may be illegally dumped into abandoned buildings together with other types of garbage. The incorrect handling of garbage in and around these structures may have a lasting negative impact on the ecosystem and business around these buildings.

A wall in a section of a old fisheries building sprayed with graffiti

Pots and water containers belonging to an occupant offer a glimpse into the daily life in the old fisheries building

A restroom on Water Lane, Kingston, overrun by garbage

A broken window at the NCB Building on 124 Harbour Street

Unsecured, abandoned locations can be especially risky because they draw persons who might unintentionally or purposefully set fires. Arsonists may also target abandoned structures, which raises the possibility of nearby buildings being damaged by fire. Old furniture, trash, and debris are examples of combustible elements that can accelerate the development of flames in these kinds of buildings.

Unknown parties set fire to the ancient Attorney General Building on Barry Street, destroying much of its wall in the process.

There is a nuanced and intricate connection between socioeconomic issues and abandoned buildings. Despite their apparent differences, they are frequently linked and can worsen one another in different ways. These abandoned structures reflect the ebb and flow of human activity and the influence of diverse influences on our built environment, acting as concrete reminders of the changing nature of our communities.

A homeless man finds shelter within the abandoned walls of a gas station on Upper King Street

The Scotia Bank Building on King Street marred by urine stains, reflecting its use as a restroom

A discarded mattress outside the abandoned fisheries building on Pechon Street

Community Responses

Hand cart being stored at a home inside the frame of the old ice factory on Pechon Street

Reactions of the community to abandoned structures might differ greatly. Some communities regard them as chances for innovative reuse. The abandoned Ice Factory on Pechon Street in Downtown Kingston is now being used to store hand cart for rental to street vendors. This is a perfect illustration of how structures may support people’s livelihood. This encourages the initiative to turn these areas into cutting-edge businesses.

In the ruins of an ice factory on Pechon Street, a local cleans igloos amid parked cars

According to Lorna Muddiman’s 2013 research on empty/abandoned buildings, similarly to downtown Kingston, communities in Europe have transformed abandoned buildings like factories and warehouses into thriving centers of business and culture. See link below.

https://respondingtogether.wikispiral.org/tiki-read_article.php?articleId=259

Abandoned buildings may occasionally operate as hubs for activism and community involvement. To address the problem and encourage change, locals can plan lobbying campaigns, art projects, or cleanup events.

This strategy transforms underutilized places into vibrant community assets, demonstrating resilience and inventiveness. Drawing comparisons, such tactics might be implemented in Jamaican settings, maybe through collaborating with locals to provide innovative uses for vacant structures that tackle societal problems like housing, education, or leisure. By contrasting these local and global viewpoints, this encourages creative thinking and a greater understanding of the possibilities of these underutilized areas.

A street vendor sets up shop outside the historic Old Attorney General Building

Once a haven for the destitute, it serves as a menacing reminder of neglect. This abandoned bathroom on Kingston’s Water Lane is a silent reminder of the stories it used to hold.

POLICIES AND PLANNING

Reviving these buildings can offer a carefully thought-out plan and vision with the involvement of many stakeholders. But it is essential, if not necessary, that a plan begin with the creation of a vision, one that gives everyone engaged a stake in the result and who will then take action to guarantee that the intended results are realized by taking part in the plan’s implementation.

In Jamaica, both the national and municipal governments are involved in planning. The Ministry of Local Government and Environment (MLGE) is in charge of central government policy direction and guidance as well as facilitating the revitalization of abandoned buildings.

The Kingston and St. Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC), the municipal authority of Kingston and St. Andrew, is another entity that falls within the category of local authorities. The KSAMC’s duties include regulating building and planning approvals, development control, trade and business licensing, street parking, and public vending control. They also lead plans and initiatives for the sustainable, balanced, and orderly development of the parish as whole and major towns in particular.

The foundation of this Sector Plan for Urban Planning and Regional Development is a shared vision among private sector and civil society planners, outlining the crucial roles that they will all play in influencing the planning process through 2030. To reach its greatest potential, the regeneration and renovation of Downtown Kingston’s abandoned buildings must be focused on assisting Jamaica’s social and economic development. The Plan should endeavor to advance Jamaica’s development within a framework that is coordinated, logical, and advantageous to all parties.

Despite attempts, emails sent to the Kingston and St. Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) regarding their plans for addressing abandoned buildings and the social issues linked to them have gone unanswered. This lack of response raises concerns about the transparency and effectiveness of current strategies in place to tackle these pressing urban challenges. It also highlights the need for more open communication and proactive measures to address the issues surrounding abandoned buildings in our community.

Reflection and the need for revitalization are prompted by the roofless and windowless remnants of R.A. Custom Brokers Ltd. at 139 Harbour Street,

Naming historical buildings national monuments

A few of these structures have a fascinating history and a thriving culture. The goal of designating them as historic sites and monuments would be to promote tourism-driven economic growth. The process of naming them national monument requires a few criterias. According to the Jamaica National Heritage Trust (JNHT) Research Department A location cannot become a National Monument unless certain requirements are fulfilled. A site must meet one of the following criteria in order to be eligible for protection under the Jamaica National Heritage Trust Act of 1985 (please see link below): historic, architectural, traditional, artistic, aesthetic, scientific, or archaeological interest. A place of importance can be reported to the Jamaica National Heritage Trust by anybody. http://jnht.com/download/act_jnht_1985.pdf

The JNHT also disclosure that A list of locations that are being pursued for declaration that is also available to them, however that list wasn’t shared. The JNHT conducts a site visit when these locations are brought to their attention or if they are sought out.

Following this site visit, a JNHT team visits the location to evaluate the given criteria. After evaluating the site, the Research Unit conducts desk research in an effort to compile a research report that will be given to a subcommittee. Historical details concerning the site in question are included in this research report, but they are not the only ones. This report must be approved before it can be submitted to the subcommittee. It is subsequently presented to the board for final approval if the subcommittee has not objectedA Notice of Intention, a legal document that notifies stakeholders and the general public that JNHT intends to proceed with the site’s declaration. Every stakeholder is issued. A copy of this document is published, and there is a 28-day window for objections. In the event that no objects are found, the document and the site as a whole are then published in the gazette, which is what gives it legal standing. At that point, it becomes a designated National Monument, Protected Area, or Heritage District. It may take up to six months to complete this process.

Recognized for its architectural and historical value, the former Government Printery Office is a tribute to the rich history of our country’s printing and governance processes. Designating it as a national monument or Heritage District would be appropriated because it would preserve our history while also providing future generations with educational materials.

Old Government Printery Office on Duke Street, Kingston, just a stone throw away from the JNHT

Bank of Nova Scotia on King Street, slowly decaying and is being used as a restroom and waste disposal location.

The Bank of Nova Scotia building, located at 35 King Street in Kingston, is a noteworthy historical landmark that meets the requirements for designation as a national monument or as a Heritage District. The bank was founded in Jamaica 135 years ago in 1889, and it has witnessed and participated in the history of the island, representing the changes from colonization to independence. Its structure and architecture serve as a symbol of a financial institution as well as a connection to the social and economic development of Jamaica. Because of this, maintaining its legacy would be a tribute to Jamaica’s historical trajectory as well as an act of honoring its past.

The railway building on Pechon Street stands as a testament to Jamaica’s rich transportation history, spanning over 85 years of service. Its historic significance and architectural heritage make it a vital part of our national identity.

REVITALIZATION

The Desmond McKenzie Transitional Centre for the Homeless was officially opened by The Most Honourable Andrew Holness, ON, PC, MP Prime Minister of Jamaica on May 27, 2022. The centre is a testament to idea that abandoned building can be transformed to address the challenges faced by the homeless, indigent, and marginalized members of our society. According to Monique Henry, the front desk clerk at the facility, before the centre was repurposed, it used to be an abandoned dental clinic. The facility is now home to over 40 persons.

Offering shelter, support, and opportunities to persons in need is not just a duty, but a moral imperative. Enhancing the lives of citizens, ensuring that everyone has the chance to flourish and make meaningful contributions to our beloved country is one of the main reasons for this transformation.

There is additional constructions being done to expand the space at the shelter to cater for more persons who are homeless and/or experiencing challenges.

Lounge area provided for residents of the shelter. The area consist of a center table with reading books for residents.

Bedroom of female residents at the Desmond McKenzie Transitional Shelter

To sum up, the investigation of deserted buildings reveals a story that goes beyond neglectful structures. These dilapidated buildings are symbols of architectural history as well as social change and the reverberations of earlier times. Communities must acknowledge these locations as potential national monuments that capture history and cultural identity, rather than merely being deserted landscapes.

These buildings can be given new life through revitalization initiatives, which will turn them into thriving centers of the arts, culture, and community involvement. We can preserve our history and create areas that promote social cohesion, learning, and creativity by taking back and reusing historic structures. We can make sure that these abandoned buildings become symbols of our past, present, and future, enhancing our quality of life and tying us to our common past, by carefully planning and working together.

“Creativity cannot be really regulated, but it can be encouraged. The redevelopment or revitalization of a city is an art. It depends on the individual strengths of a place and the will of the leadership to bring about change. The goal is to establish a cultural infrastructure.”

-Charles Landry-

Derelict Service Station Building on upper King Street

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to Sergeant Williams and the dedicated police constables at the Darling Street Police Station for their unwavering support and professionalism during the shooting of the pictures for this photo essay. Their commitment to ensuring my safety and security throughout the project was truly commendable. I am deeply grateful for their cooperation and willingness to go above and beyond to make this project possible.

I would also like to express my sincere gratitude to the following individuals and organizations for their invaluable support and contributions to this photo essay:

Mr. Andrew Smith for his support and encouragement throughout the process of creating this photo essay. Mr. Ainsley Mills for his insightful interviews and perspectives on the dangers of abandoned buildings.

The National Library of Jamaica for providing access to the valuable and credible information for some of the abandoned buildings featured in this essay.

The Jamaica National Heritage Trust for their expertise and guidance in providing research information for the historical context of the abandoned building

I am also grateful to all the Monique Anderson who shared her knowledge as it relates to the transformation of the Desmond McKenzie Transitional Centre for the Homeless.

DECAY & DISCONNECT

DECAY & DISCONNECT

DECAY & DISCONNECT

DECAY & DISCONNECT

DECAY & DISCONNECT

DECAY & DISCONNECT