– says vehicles badly parked will be towed away

THE Mayor and City Council (M&CC) has said that this year’s ‘Mash’ celebrations will see the municipality taking a stronger focus on safety and security, even though this means that the number of vending spots will have to be reduced.

At a press conference recently to talk about ‘Mash’ plans, Chief Constable (ag) Peter Livingstone informed listeners that in excess of 50 officers will be deployed on February 23 to aid with security.

Towards ensuring that citizens are allowed to proceed in a safe environment, Livingstone said officers will be placed along the route of the parade so as to ensure that there are no obstructions.

Deputy Director of the Solid Waste Management Department, Floyd Rawlins offered that as compared to previous years when vending spots amounted to 1,200, this year will only see 750 spots being given out.

According to him, clearance of garbage will commence as soon as the last float leaves the D’Urban Park facility, which should be completely cleaned by noon the following day. As for vehicles parked in prohibited places, these will be towed away.

Rawlins pleaded for citizens and vendors to utilise their garbage receptacles, and informed that the City Council will be giving away free garbage bags.

Councillor on the Social Development Committee, Dexter Forte, also asked that the public show some maturity as far as garbage disposal is concerned.

Meanwhile, vending is prohibited along Carifesta Avenue, Irving Street between Carifesta Avenue and Thomas Road, the entire Vlissengen Road from Carifesta Avenue to D’Urban Street, and between Hadfield Street and Homestretch Avenue.

The 10×10 vending spots on Thomas Road to Church Street cost $12,000; along Lamaha to Church Street cost $15,000; Square of the Revolution $25,000; and inside D’Urban Park $15,000.