The Roseau City Council is moving ahead with plans to relocate roadside vendors operating within the capital, with officials reporting growing cooperation from individuals affected by the initiative.
Mayor of Roseau Lucy Belle-Matthew said the council has spent the past several weeks engaging directly with vendors throughout the city as part of an effort to encourage them to relocate to the Roseau Market and other designated trading areas. The initiative forms part of broader efforts to improve the management of public spaces, enhance pedestrian movement and ensure compliance with city regulations governing commercial activity.
According to the mayor, the council conducted a series of walk-through exercises in collaboration with the Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force to speak with vendors operating along roadsides and other unauthorised locations.
“We know that is an illegal practice, and we reached out to them, spoke to them and advised them that they should return to the Roseau Market where space is available so they can do their sales,” Mathieu explained.
The city council has established June 15 as the target date for the relocation process. Officials say the objective is not to prevent people from earning a living, but rather to ensure that commercial activities are conducted in appropriate spaces that are safer and more organized for vendors, shoppers and motorists alike.
Mathieu noted that the response from many vendors has been positive, with several already taking steps to secure market spaces and complete the necessary application procedures.
The council plans to continue public engagement efforts over the coming weeks through additional visits and discussions with vendors. Authorities believe the relocation initiative will help strengthen the role of the Roseau Market as a central commercial hub while improving the appearance and accessibility of the city.
Officials have encouraged vendors who have not yet made arrangements to contact the Roseau Market administration and secure available spaces before the relocation deadline takes effect.
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