The Government will be moving ahead with plans to construct a new Bourda Market, and expand and upgrade the iconic Stabroek Market, according to Minister of Local Government, Priya Manickchand.

During an appearance on an online talk show last evening, the Minister said the technical teams are currently redesigning the new structure for both markets, explaining that the Stabroek market upgrade forms part of the Georgetown Restoration Initiative.

“Before the next five years the Stabroek market will be restored and extended and Bourda Market is going to be rebuilt completely. We are still in the process of getting details of what restoration looks like restoration looks like given we are talking about something that was built 100 years ago and then how can you accommodate the people who can no longer fit in this restored building by an extension that does not take away from the aesthetics of it,” the Minister noted.

The Minister explained that detailed assessments are currently underway to determine the scope of restoration works needed at the decades-old Stabroek Market and identify ways to expand the facility without compromising its architectural heritage.

As it relates to the Bourda Market, it was explained that two rounds of consultations have been held with vendors about plans for development for the market.

Funds have also been allocated in the 2026 budget for the rehabilitation of the facility. The proposal includes a two-storey structure to maximize space and accommodate more vendors. More than $2 Billion was allocated in the 2025 budget for the same projects.

The Minister has also announced that government will be turning the sod for five new markets next week.

The Ministry recently opened bids for the rehabilitation of the East Ruimveldt Market, and so far, some thirty-two contractors have submitted bids for the rehabilitation of that market.

Government has budgeted some $18B this year for the construction and rehabilitation of markets countrywide.

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