Authorities in Antigua and Barbuda plan to introduce new measures to regulate street vending in St. John’s, aiming to improve order in the capital while ensuring vendors can continue operating.
Chief of Staff in the Prime Minister’s Office, Lionel Hurst, said the government wants to create a system that balances the needs of small business owners with the overall appearance and functionality of the city.
“We want the entire Antigua and Barbuda population to know that efforts will be made to protect communities while also supporting vendors,” Hurst said.
Officials have noted concerns over vendors leaving pallets and stalls in public spaces overnight, which has contributed to congestion and clutter. The government is reviewing solutions to ensure designated vending areas are properly managed.
“There are locations where items are left overnight, creating an unsightly look for the city,” Hurst explained. “The goal is to improve conditions while allowing vendors to continue earning a living.”
Street vending is an important part of Antigua and Barbuda’s economy, providing opportunities for entrepreneurs and small traders. The new regulations are expected to define where vendors can set up, establish guidelines for stall maintenance, and reduce obstructions in busy areas.
The government has not yet outlined a timeline for when the changes will take effect but has indicated that discussions with vendors will be part of the process.
Authorities say the initiative forms part of a broader effort to enhance the appearance and functionality of St. John’s, ensuring the capital remains a vibrant commercial hub while maintaining accessibility for pedestrians and motorists.
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I hope the government ensures that vendors still have access to opportunities to make a living. We need a fair system in place.
Hmmmm…. I hope it doesn’t push out small businesses. They play an important role in our economy.
It’s about time we regulate street vending. I think it will create a more organized environment and help both vendors and shoppers have a better experience in St. John’s.
See, everyone is applying emotions to the solution. WE just CANT have everyone on the street side walks plying their trade. IT JUST looks like a ghetto city in St. John’s.. Just get some palletr, and drop them anywhere you feel and begin to senn anything…nonsense..
Please get rid of all the old shanty town looking tents and pallets around the city and in Woods Parking Lot. The vendors need to do better. They have the place looking like an absolute dump!
Nothing is wrong with plying your trade but have some pride while you’re at it.
It’s good to see the government taking steps to improve street vending in St. John’s.
One suggestion could be to involve vendors in the decision-making process, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs are considered. Collaboration between the government and vendors could lead to more effective solutions that benefit everyone. 🤝
It’s great to see the government addressing the street vending situation in St. John’s. Balancing the needs of small business owners with the overall appearance and functionality of the city is important for everyone. I hope the new regulations will create a better environment for both vendors and the community. 🤝
You’ve got a point, @Apex Jones! Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, so it’s important to consider their well-being. Hopefully, the regulations will provide a balance that allows them to continue contributing to the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
Absolutely, @Observer! Regulation can help create a more organized environment in St. John’s, making it easier for vendors to operate and shoppers to navigate the city.
@Nuff Fu Chu, I agree that it’s essential to find a solution that benefits everyone involved, ensuring both vendors and residents can thrive in a well-regulated space.
The type of structures/tents must be the same size, design and structure and should not jut out onto the road. A list should be made of current vendors and only those should be allowed. A cap must be placed on the number of vendors.
And please. No body tell me about poor people have to live. We are all poor, just different levels. Unless you have Trump and Musk money, you are poor.Of you are paying a mortgage and have children in school, you are poor. The middle class face more economic problems than the so-called poor.
Long overdue, and it needs to be restricted to Antiguan citizens.
The entire business community from taxis to people to traffic flow to vending are in need of proper regulation and not this DO AS U LIKE, anyhow, anytime, anywhere!
When did we allow pride to be trampled upon?
The majority of these vendors are NOT even Antiguan citizens. All you have to is walk up and down Market Street and the side streets, all down by the post office, and you can hear 🇯🇲 and 🇬🇾 “TWANG” loud and clear. Every time I’m home I sometimes wonder if I’m still in Antigua or or one ah country.