As government continues its efforts to modernise market infrastructure across the country, the construction of the new $1.3 billion Zeelugt Market is expected to provide residents of West Coast Demerara with improved access to goods while creating better opportunities for local vendors.
Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Priya Manickchand, on Wednesday turned the sod for the construction of the new market at Zeelugt, Region Three.
Addressing the gathering, Minister Manickchand said the government’s market development programme will see several other projects commencing across the country before the end of the year.
“The development is happening, and before the end of the year, we will turn the sod for Port Mourant, La Penitence, Lusignan, Soesdyke, Skeldon, McKenzie and Plaisance, even as we work on restoring and extending the Stabroek Market and building a brand new Bourda Market,” the minister said.
Minister Manickchand emphasised that markets are important not only as places for commerce, but also as spaces that support communities, entrepreneurship and economic activity.
“A market is a place of community. It’s a place that encourages economic growth. It’s a place that fosters creativity and entrepreneurship,” Minister Manickchand said.
The new Zeelugt facility is expected to significantly expand vending capacity in the community. Approximately 54 vendors currently operate along the reserve and streets within Zeelugt, while the new market will accommodate more than 90 vendors.
This expansion is expected to provide vendors with a more organised and secure space to conduct their businesses, while giving residents improved access to a range of goods and services within their community.
The development also forms part of the government’s broader efforts to improve the availability and accessibility of markets, which can support more direct connections between vendors, consumers and local producers and contribute to a more efficient food distribution system.
Additionally, the modern facility will feature designated sections for meat and fish, fresh produce, prepared foods, beauty and personal care products, as well as other goods and services.
It will also include parking for vendors and customers, a designated taxi bay, modern washrooms, an integrated waste-management system, security measures, administrative offices and training facilities, and a dedicated children’s play area.
Meanwhile, Regional Chairman Inshan Ayube said the market development is part of wider investments taking place across Region Three, including upgrades to schools, health facilities, roads and housing schemes.
“All the housing schemes that are being built now will impact positively on the market, because once houses are being built, money flows and people come up. So we have a whole collaboration of efforts that will be beneficial to the people,” Ayube said.
The Zeelugt Market will be constructed in four lots by Jettoo’s Construction, Platinum Investments Inc., B.M. Property Investment Inc. and Superior Supplies & General Construction, with GR Engineering serving as consultant.