The illegal Roche Caiman market will move to a new site within the same district. The proposed location is the COI garden, a short walking distance from the current site.
Government officials shared the plan at a consultative meeting on Thursday, 8 January 2026. They represented departments responsible for community affairs, agriculture, transport and education. The officials met residents, vendors and farmers. They explained the proposal and gathered feedback.
The meeting was organised by the Ministry of Local Government and Inner Islands. It worked in collaboration with the Ministry of Transport, Ports and Civil Aviation. Residents of Roche Caiman, market vendors and farmers took part.
Vendors raised concerns about the existing site. They cited hygiene problems, rodent infestation and limited parking. In addition, they highlighted traffic congestion, especially during weekends.
The elected member for Roche Caiman, Audrey Vidot, also addressed traffic issues. In particular, she said congestion occurs on weekdays during school closing hours. She noted that three schools operate in the area. These are Plaisance Primary School, Plaisance Secondary School, and Exceptional School. She said school buses and parents collecting children contribute to traffic delays.
Officials outlined facilities planned for the new site. The government will provide space for 30 vendors. The site will include parking, toilets and other sanitary facilities.
The proposal also includes new road access arrangements. As a result, authorities say the changes aim to improve traffic flow around the market.
The Minister responsible for Transport, Ports and Civil Aviation, Veronique Laporte, said the relocation plan is not new. She said traffic congestion remains a major concern. She added that the market creates several challenges for the surrounding community.
Ms Laporte said she was satisfied with the outcome of the meeting. She said participants shared opinions and practical suggestions. Moreover, she noted that most attendees supported the relocation. She added that vendors received more details about the facilities planned for the new site.
Looking ahead, Ms Laporte said she will compile all proposals and feedback. She said these will be shared with relevant agencies and ministries. Ultimately, she said the aim is to allow the government to act on the relocation as soon as possible.