The Local Government Ministry is working on a new design for the Highgate Market in St Mary which was gutted by fire in July last year.

Since the fire, a temporary facility has been established for some 40 vendors who were affected.

Last year, Portfolio Minister, Desmond McKenzie promised the vendors that there would be discussions with Port Maria’s Mayor, Richard Creary and Member of Parliament for Central St Mary, Dr Morais Guy to settle on the design for the new market.

Speaking at an official handing over ceremony for indigent housing solutions in Hamilton Mountain, St Mary yesterday (January 20), Mr McKenzie said those discussions have started.

Port Maria market was constructed last year at a cost of $56 million to accommodate vendors, including those selling their wares illegally in the town.

The Minister said the works on the markets are a part of efforts to ensure that St Mary is given its full share of development.