Public Works Minister warns against construction in restricted areas

Public Works Minister, Juan Edghill, has issued a warning regarding the dangers of unauthorised construction on Government reserves. The Minister’s cautionary statement comes as emergency repairs are underway at a damaged bridge in Stanleytown, West Bank Demerara (WBD) where structural issues have led to significant adjustments in the daily routines of residents and commuters.
The urgent reparations, involving the deployment of heavy machinery, underscores the substantial impact of building or vending in restricted areas.
The bridge repairs in Stanleytown serve as a reminder of these potential hazards. Images from the site show heavy equipment and construction crews working to stabilise the damaged structure, highlighting the extent of intervention sometimes required to remedy issues that arise when regulations on reserved areas are ignored.

These disruptions have caused unplanned detours and delays for Stanleytown residents.
As repair crews work to restore the bridge, the Public Works Minister has urged the public to respect Government reserves and avoid activities that may hinder access to critical infrastructure.
Meanwhile, Police have since issued a traffic advisory which states that no heavy load is permitted to cross the sinking Stanleytown Bridge.
“The Stanleytown bridge on the West Bank of Demerara, which facilitates traffic flowing into and out of as far as Vriesland and beyond, is sinking. The bridge cannot facilitate laden lorries or heavy loads on any or all vehicles. As such, traffic ranks will support movement and regulate compliance. Motorists are advised to proceed with caution. Emergency works to remedy that bridge will be undertaken,” Police said in its advisory.