Sidewalk Vending Clampdown: Cabinet Signals End to Street Clutter

Sidewalk Vending Clampdown: Cabinet Signals End to Street Clutter

The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has reaffirmed its commitment to ending unregulated sidewalk vending in downtown St. John’s, signalling a decisive push to restore order and cleanliness in the capital’s commercial district.

During the latest post-Cabinet briefing, Chief of Staff Ambassador Lionel Hurst confirmed that vendors operating along public walkways—particularly in the vicinity of the public market—will be required to vacate the streets and relocate to designated spaces.

“The Cabinet has decided that vending on the sidewalks must come to an end,” Hurst said. “We want the city to be orderly, attractive, and reflective of the cultural charm Antigua and Barbuda is known for.”

The St. John’s Development Corporation (SJDC) will play a lead role in enforcing the new policy, supported by town and country planning experts. The government has identified several structured alternatives for vendors, including vacant stalls inside the public market and available space near the Fisheries Complex.

Officials say the move is not intended to marginalise small entrepreneurs but to bring structure to a sector that has grown haphazardly over the years, often obstructing pedestrian walkways and creating sanitation concerns.

“Many of these vendors already have stalls inside the market but operate outside because foot traffic is greater,” Hurst noted. “By bringing everyone inside, we can improve the appeal of the market and ensure public safety.”

In addition to market relocation, the government is exploring the use of additional public lands—extending as far as the Central Board of Health—to accommodate any overflow. Officials are also expected to introduce amendments to expand the SJDC’s regulatory authority across a wider area of the city.

Long-standing concerns about street clutter, rotting tents, and overnight storage of pallets have added urgency to the move. Authorities argue that the current conditions present both an eyesore and a health risk, particularly in an area where food is sold.

While some vendors have expressed concern over losing visibility and income, the Cabinet insists that consultation and support will accompany the transition. Hurst emphasized the importance of maintaining a balance between economic opportunity and urban order.

“We’re not here to shut anyone down—we’re here to ensure that vending is done safely, legally, and in a way that benefits everyone,” he said.

The enforcement process is expected to begin in the coming weeks, with the SJDC leading public engagement and compliance measures.

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