MINISTER of Local Government and Rural Development Desmond McKenzie has promised that the renovation of Buff Bay market in western Portland will be completed shortly.

The market, which has been in a state of disrepair for several years, is being renovated at a cost of $56 million.

During a tour of the market on Wednesday McKenzie asked Jamaicans who use the market to wait just a little while.

“We have already executed $26 million for phase one and part of phase two, which will total $56 million to do the total renovation. This is reasonable, considering what I have to spend on other markets.

“This market is of significance because it was recognised as a premier market when Jamaica celebrated its 50th year as an independent nation,” said McKenzie.

According to McKenzie, despite the delays he is pleased with the work done so far, which started in 2023.

In the meantime, Member of Parliament for Portland Western and Cabinet member Daryl Vaz committed $5 million towards the completion of the renovation which includes meat stalls, a haberdashery vending area, and a proper office for the market manager.

“I am very pleased with what I see in terms of design — a lot of fresh air passing through and the space, so this is a model that can be used in other townships, Mr Minister. This is a great day for Buff Bay and the vendors to operate in a place of safety and comfort,” said Vaz .

At the monthly meeting of the Portland Municipal Corporation on Thursday, Superintendent of Works Raymond Grant pointed to the commitment from the two Cabinet members.

“I acknowledge that a visit was made at the Buff Bay Market yesterday [Wednesday] by our portfolio minister Desmond McKenzie and Member of Parliament Daryl Vaz to look at the completion as we have announced.

“The minister was quite pleased with the nature of the work in the completion of phase one and [they] have committed further resources to the corporation for the continuation and completion of phase two,” said Grant.

“Consequent to that a revised estimate was done late yesterday [Wednesday] evening and is now with the CEO to be dispatched to the minister to receive further commitment. The commitment of Member of Parliament Vaz will assist in the completion,” added Grant.