UDC moving to improve markets

The Urban Development Corporation (UDC) is stepping up its plans for the redevelopment of downtown Kingston with bidders being sought for the construction of a new open market at the Red Rose Fish Market on Heywood Street and Spanish Town Road, and the development of the Jubilee Market in West Parade.

The deadline for the bids was last week, but there has been no word yet from the UDC if preferred bidders have been selected.

The Red Rose Fish Market will benefit from the erection of a single-storey steel-framed building supported on concrete stub columns and external works, including chain-link and block-wall fencing, paving of the sidewalk, as well as drainage and electrical services.

Just a stone's throw away in the West Parade area, the UDC is envisioning the construction of new facilities for the Jubilee Market, which was destroyed by fire in 2009.

The work at Jubilee Market will involve erection of a single-storey steel-framed building supported on concrete stub columns, erection of a toilet block within the main building, and electrical and plumbing installation work.

According to the UDC, it is spearheading a multi-agency approach to the development and rejuvenation of areas in downtown Kingston and Port Royal by arresting physical and social blight within the development area and beyond to improve economic and social conditions.

The Corporation is also defining the capital city's status as the seat of Government while establishing Port Royal's well deserved importance to Jamaica and the world in general.

The UDC says that through strategic partnerships, it is working to continue to improving the physical infrastructure in downtown Kingston and where possible, creating the impetus for public-private investments while facilitating a safe and secure environment.

"The ultimate aim is to create an atmosphere as inclusive as it is diverse, with amenities which attract both Jamaicans and visitors and providing services accessible by all," said the UDC.