The Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development has inked a $24.5M contract for the construction of the Diamond market tarmac.

The project is scheduled to be completed in three months and the 4,600 square meter tarmac will be erected in the Diamond Housing Scheme, between the first and second bridges on the southern side of the scheme, the Government Information Agency stated in a release.

According to  the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Seewchan, the construction of the market tarmac was necessary since vending is currently conducted on the public road and poses a threat to the free and safe flow of traffic.

A Market Management Committee will be established to organize and maintain the facilities, GINA said, and those vending in the market will be expected to pay a fee.

This fee will be monitored by the committee which will comprise representatives from the Regional Democratic Council (RDC), Neighbourhhod Democratic Council (NDC), vendors and the Community Development Committee (CDC). The revenue earned will be used for the maintenance of the tarmac.

Meanwhile, the ministry recently inked contracts for the construction of three market tarmacs in Enmore, Region Four; and De Willem and Best/Pouderoyen in Region Three.

Two other contracts for market tarmacs for Golden Grove, Region Four and Waterloo, Region Five are waiting to be awarded, the release added.