THE proposed re-development of Bourda Market is being reconsidered to better accommodate the way Guyanese vendors operate and consumers shop, following a review of initial designs by Local Government and Regional Development Minister Priya Manickchand and officials involved in the project.
Manickchand, Project Manager with responsibility for Markets, Anjanie Ramlall and Deputy Permanent Secretary, Godfrey Monroe, met on Thursday with Eliel da Fonseca Vieira of Contracta Construction UK to examine the preliminary plans for the re-development.
The discussions focused on ensuring that the upgraded facility is modern and functional while remaining suited to the practical needs of vendors and shoppers.
Manickchand raised concerns about aspects of the initial multi-storey concept, particularly whether the proposed layout would adequately reflect traditional shopping patterns, including consumers’ preference for convenient access to fresh produce and other everyday goods.
Following the review, the design team agreed to revisit the concept and examine the possibility of a two-storey development using both available sections of the market area.
The revised approach will also explore ways of connecting the two sections while maintaining ease of access and efficient movement for vendors and shoppers.
Other considerations raised during the discussions included natural ventilation and lighting, accessibility, drainage and flood mitigation, traffic management, loading and unloading arrangements, and the movement and relocation of vendors during the various stages of construction.
The Minister stressed that the redevelopment must minimise disruption to vendors and safeguard their ability to continue earning throughout the construction period.
Further consultations with vendors are expected to form part of the redesign process, with the aim of ensuring that the final plans reflect local trading practices and the needs of Guyanese consumers.
The review also underscores the importance of adapting international approaches to market development to local conditions rather than applying designs without consideration for Guyana’s shopping culture and trading environment.
The revised concept will be presented for further consideration as planning continues for the re-development of Bourda Market.