Also known as Monkey Island, Pellew Island is one of Jamaica's small, near-shore islands.  Located just off the San San coast near Port Antonio, Pellew Island is an important part of Jamaica's natural heritage and an iconic image of our northeastern coast.  Originally part of Cold Harbour Estates, it was purchased in 1953 by Baron Heinrich Thyssen as a Valentine's gift for his fiancée, and has been privately owned ever since.

The island sits at one end of a coral reef, which protects the San San Bay.  It is surrounded by healthy sea grass beds and wonderful swimming areas.  Jamaicans and visitors alike visit the island by boat, laze on the small beach, snorkel at the nearby reef and generally enjoy the gorgeous setting.

The current owner plans to construct four villas on the island.  This is likely to result in significant environmental impact, both during the construction phase and afterwards, as well as the loss of access to the beach. 

If you are concerned about this development, which will irretrievably alter one of Jamaica's  most beautiful views, as well as pose risks to the marine environment, please sign our Save Pellew Island petition, asking the Minister of Health and the Environment to use Jamaican law to ensure Pellew Island remains in its natural state:

Link: Pellew Island Petition

 Web links

The National Environment  and Planning Agency (NEPA) http://www.nepa.gov.jm

Environmental Foundation of Jamaica      http://www.efj.org.jm

Jamaica Environmental Advocacy Network (JEAN Jamaica) http://jeanjamaica.org        

Environmental Law Alliance Worldwide (ELAW USA) http://www.elaw.org