Rest stop along Soesdyke-Linden Highway could be developed

Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Priya Manickchand, on Monday convened a high-level meeting to examine the future development and enhancement of several markets across the country, as part of the Government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen local economic activity and improve public spaces within communities.

The discussions focused on the potential transformation and modernization of several community markets, including those located in Buxton, Plaisance, Zeelugt, and Tuschen. These markets serve as critical hubs for commerce, providing vendors, farmers, and small business owners with opportunities to sell their goods while ensuring residents have convenient access to fresh produce and other essential items.

Minister Manickchand emphasized the importance of reimagining these spaces to better serve both vendors and customers. The meeting explored possibilities for improved infrastructure, better sanitation facilities, enhanced vendor stalls, adequate drainage, and more organized market layouts designed to support safer and more efficient operations.

In addition to the community markets, discussions also examined the potential development and improvement of markets in New Amsterdam and Skeldon. These markets play a significant role in supporting economic activity within their respective regions, and proposals considered ways to modernize their facilities while preserving their importance as central commercial hubs.

The meeting also considered the development potential for the market area at Soesdyke Junction, a key transportation link that connects the coastland to the hinterland. Given the high level of daily traffic through the junction, discussions included the possibility of establishing a structured market environment that could safely accommodate vendors while improving the overall experience for commuters and travelers.

Additionally, the concept of a designated rest stop along the highway corridor was examined. Such a facility could offer travelers a safe and convenient place to pause during long journeys, while also creating new economic opportunities for vendors, small businesses, and service providers.

Minister Manickchand noted that the Government remains committed to engaging stakeholders throughout the planning process to ensure that any proposed developments reflect the needs and aspirations of the communities they are intended to serve.

The Ministry will continue consultations with vendors, local authorities, community representatives, and other relevant stakeholders before final decisions are made regarding the design and development of the identified locations (Ministry of Local Government & Regional Development press release)