Gov’t finalises relocation plan for 59 Buxton Railway Embankment vendors

The Ministry of Public Works has finalised arrangements for the relocation of 59 vendors currently operating along the Railway Embankment at Buxton, East Coast Demerara, as part of ongoing works under the East Coast Demerara Road Expansion Project.

The decision was reached following a multi-stakeholder meeting on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, between Minister of Public Works Bishop Juan Edghill, vendors and other key stakeholders.

According to the ministry, construction will soon advance on a new vending tarmac that will accommodate the displaced vendors who currently operate along the alignment of the road expansion works.

The agreement was reached after consultations involving the Buxton–Foulis Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC), representatives of the Buxton vendors, project consultant Beston Consulting Inc., and officials from the Ministry of Public Works.

During the engagement, Edghill assured vendors that the relocation exercise will not result in anyone losing their vending space.

He also outlined several amenities that will be provided at the new vending location, including washroom facilities and lighting to enhance security for vendors.

The ministry said the new tarmac will allow vendors to be relocated in an orderly manner, thereby clearing the roadway to allow contractors to continue works along the corridor.

The relocation forms part of preparations for the continued advancement of the East Coast Demerara Road Expansion Project.

Edghill and a technical team had previously engaged the vendors in November 2025 to outline the relocation plans and discuss how the process would unfold. Those consultations were aimed at ensuring vendors remain informed and able to continue their economic activities while construction progresses.

Works have already commenced at the new site, with contractor China Railway First Group (CRFG) clearing land along the Buxton Line Top next to the Buxton-Foulis NDC where the new vending tarmac will be constructed.

The ministry said the location was identified through collaboration with the Neighbourhood Democratic Council and the Regional Democratic Council to ensure a suitable and accessible space for vendors.

The East Coast Demerara Road Expansion Project is one of the government’s major infrastructure initiatives aimed at improving traffic flow, reducing congestion and enhancing road safety for thousands of commuters who use the corridor daily.

The ministry said it remains committed to ensuring a smooth transition for vendors and minimising disruption to their livelihoods. Further engagements with vendors are expected as the project progresses and the new vending area nears completion.