Georgetown: Barricades blocking vendors and patrons were erected today as Government announced a ban on activities on the section of seawall from Vlissengen Road to the Ocean View International Hotel.
Barricades were placed along the road up to conversation three, East Coast Demerara. This restriction will officially affect the Sunday evening hangout for the thousands who converge there.
Recent high tides that caused overtopping on sections of the East Coast highway. This resulted in authorities embarking on a massive exercise to clean away the sand and garbage that piled up there last weekend. They had hinted then on a possible decision to stop recreational activities in that particular area.
The closed section of the seawall has become a popular hangout for especially families and lovers on Sundays with cars, music and food very much prevalent.
Vendors noted that the Minister of Public Works, Robeson Benn visited the area and related that sections will be allotted to persons wanting to vend on the area west of Vlissengen Road next to Salina’s Resort.
They said that the Minister noted that the area will have to be prepared to facilitate such activities and as such works will commence as early as possible.
According to the Ministry of Public Works: “The prohibition is as a result of damage to the sea defence infrastructure, excessive buildup of garbage in the drains and canals leading to flooding, and the increasing traffic congestion and its related safety risks, especially on Sundays and holidays,” the Ministry noted.“It is proposed to relocate all the vendors (inclusive of mobile units, drinks carts, hot dog stands, etc) to the section of the seawall embankment between Camp Street and Vlissengen Road, where a three-month permit will be issued for vending.”
The Ministry said that it will be meeting with vendors who operate between the closed area on Wednesday at 09:30 hours at its offices on Fort Street, Kingston, where issues relating to the relocation will be discussed.
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