A new market design has been proposed for the Savusavu Municipal Market with works expected to begin in March.

This was revealed by the Minister for Local Government, Housing and Community Development, Premila Kumar during a public consultation in Savusavu yesterday.

Ms Kumar said with the help of relevant stakeholders in Savusavu, they were able to re-look at a new market design because the old design did not meet the requirements of the Blue Town Model Initiative.

She said it was extremely crucial that the design they incorporated focused on the bigger concept of developing Savusavu and realising the potentials we have as a ministry.

“We realise that the piece of land that the council has is ideally located, and we want to capitalise on this development,” she said.

Ms Kumar said they were close towards finalising all logistics and documentation.

She said they would shortly begin with their tender process for interested contractors.

“The proposed concept has been cleared and detailed engineering drawings have been completed,” she reiterated.

“We will soon start advertising the tender process for interested contractors to carry out the development”.

Description of the market

Ms Kumar said the double storey market building would have new space for 39 Small Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and a conference room.

She said the ground floor would include permanent vendors and florists in an effort to promote green space and beautify the market surroundings.

“We are also looking at generating income for the council by renting out the conference room for weddings, events and other festivities,” she added.

“Once the new market was built and opened for service, the temporary market shed would then be used by casual vendors.”

Ms Kumar said the new design was developed keeping in mind, that they have good ventilation and natural lights to reduce expenses.

The project was funded by the United Nation’s Women and Local Government Ministry.

Town heritage and prominence important

While responding to questions during the consultation, Ms Kumar said the new design was prepared in a way that suited the town’s heritage.

She said every time when they was a consultation, we would get new ideas and try incorporating them into the new designs for the market.

“Every Market design is determined by the heritage each town is known for, and Savusavu is known for its beautiful landscapes and tourist reputation,” she added.

Market Association

Savusavu Market vendor association representative, Sofiya Nisha, indicated the hardships they faced.

“It clarifies a lot of areas which our vendors were eagerly waiting to know, so this consultation was indeed beneficial,” Ms Nisha said.

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