Sod turned for new $388 million Buxton market

A massive transformation of the Buxton/Foulis market on the East Coast of Demerara will soon follow as the sod was turned for the $388 million project to commence.

It will bring relief to vendors and nearby communities alike by creating a modern and sustainable environment for commerce. Vendors who have continued to operate at the market despite its limited amenities have welcomed the project.

“[There] wasn’t no proper bathroom, proper facilities and I feel that was the main issue for most vendors,” Ion Jessamy, a vendor said.

Another Vendor and village council member, David Jones shared similar sentiments and said it will help drive economic opportunities.

“It will help in the emergence of new economic activity and ventures for this community,” Jones said.

For decades, the East Coast Demerara village depended on the market as a hub of commercial activity. However, over the years, many vendors relocated to nearby markets, leaving the facility largely vacant and in a state of disrepair.

The new two-storey market will be constructed by R&P Engineering and General Construction and will accommodate 136 stalls. Vendors have already begun applying for spaces in the new facility, which is expected to be completed within eight months. Additional features will include modern sanitary facilities, CCTV security, an integrated waste management system, organised vendor allocation, and an elevated market site with a comprehensive perimeter drainage system to reduce flooding and improve resilience.

Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Priya Manickchand said the project is a direct response to the community’s need for greater economic opportunities and improved public services.

“Turning the sod for a market that has not been properly opened or appointed for over thirty years so that we can give the vendors of Buxton or the residents of Buxton/Foulis a place where you can economically thrive, socially gather and makes your life easier,” the minister said.

The initiative is part of the Government’s broader programme to modernise markets across Guyana, ensuring vendors and consumers benefit from safer, cleaner and more accessible facilities while creating new opportunities for entrepreneurship and community development.