George Henry, Gleaner Writer

Spaldings, Clarendon:

AFTER SEVERAL years of waiting, the construction of a new market to replace the present 70-year-old dilapidated structure in the developing rural town of Spaldings, Clarendon, is now nearer to reality.

Ground was broken on Monday by Member of Parliament, Richard Azan, and project manager for the Lift-Up Jamaica programme, Merle Wilson. Mr. Azan said the modern facility will have 14 shops, a selling area, a storeroom, kitchen and bathroom facilities. The structure will also be outfitted with parking facilities to accommodate 22 vehicles.

One-stop shop

"We are going to construct a little area for the little farmers who want to sell their produce. The supermarket is where everybody is heading, so I want here to be a one-stop shop," said Mr. Azan.

The construction cost is expected to reach $12 million when completed in four to six months time. He said the grounds would also be landscaped to enhance the appearance of the facilities.

Mr. Azan said 40 youngsters who have been trained by the HEART Trust NTA, would be employed in the construction of the new market. At the same time he implored those who will be involved in the project to work speedily to complete it on time and within budget. "We want you to come and work. We do not want you to come here and be idle," he warned.