The Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) is currently undertaking pipe-laying works at the Merriman Mall and at the same time several small businesses are in the process of constructing stalls nearby.
Concern had been expressed in the past that a section of the mall had been taken up by a parking lot for the nearby SleepIn Hotel and Casino. The appropriation of the greenery is now continuing opposite the hotel the with construction of concrete stalls.
Barbershops and salons are among the stalls being erected. Stabroek News visited the Mall and spoke to a stall owner who informed that the allotments were made since 2015 under the previous government. In addition, the spots are being paid for at City Hall before the commencement of construction. This newspaper made several attempts to get clarity from the (acting) town clerk but was told she was unavailable.
Stabroek News also attempted to contact GWI for a comment on its Merriman Mall operation but was informed on Tuesday that a comment would be made yesterday. No feedback was received up to press time.
