An architectural design for the proposed ultra modern market complex for Kotokuraba, the main market in the Cape Coast Metropolis, was on Tuesday, presented to the Mayor of Cape Coast by Mr Ekow Sam, Architect of the project.
The project to be financed with a concessionary loan from the Chinese government, will also receive support from the Central government and the Cape Coast Metropolitan Assembly (CCMA).
Market queens, traders, businessmen and women and all stakeholders converged at the CCMA Hall during the presentation, to deliberate on the plan for the architect to make the necessary changes where necessary, as it is still at the feasibility stage.
Speaking at the function, Mr Sam said provisions have been made for, among others, supermarkets, banks, a clinic, sanitation facilities, parking lots, restaurants and storage facilities.
He explained that lighting and ventilation is a pre-requisite for every market structure and therefore they have been adequately provided for in the plan, which is a storey building, adding that, facilities has also been provided for the disabled to easily access the market.
The Metropolitan Chief Executive, Mr Anthony Egyir Aikins said before the construction of the market, the market women need to be relocated and that various places have been targeted for the exercise.
He said the construction of a modern market was of great concern to the Assembly and gave the assurance that work will commence before the end of the year because it is an “action year”.
The market queen, Nana Ama Esia said it has been their long cherished dream that the Kotokuraba and Kotoka markets were given a facelift and therefore seeing the new designs on the market was an indication that its construction was in the pipeline.
She said a new market will save them from the scorching sun and ensure a hygienic condition for the sale of their products to stem health hazards.
Nana Esia said they were ready to temporarily relocate to facilitate the successful construction of the market and called on all traders and market women to cooperate to ensure an early completion when the project starts.