14 May 2015

First look at renovated Lorengau Main Market

Manus residents have had their first look at plans for the renovated Lorengau main market, with artist impressions released showing the extent of upgrades about to begin.

The renovated market will provide more space for vendors and include a new steel frame and roof, rain water storage, renovated and additional toilet facilities, improved fence and better access for vendors and customers.

Built in the late 1970s by the Manus Local Level Government, the Lorengau main market comprises eight interconnected wooden shelters over concrete slabs and market stalls. Some parts of the roof have collapsed, timber shingles are missing and some support posts are rotted and twisted.

The Manus Provincial Technical Services Division is renovating the market in close consultation with key stakeholders in Manus and with the support of the Australian Government.

Consultation sessions with key stakeholders were held in Lorengau in December 2013 and January this year.

Vendor Veronica Putsin from Ahus Island expected the renovated market to help her sell beads and fish.

“It will have more spaces so I can come to the market and bring a variety of things to sell. Currently the limited space is a hurdle because I only have to sell either my fish or beads and not both at the same time,” Ms Putsin said.

“If space is available I can be able to sell both my fish and beads and earn enough to take back to my family.”

Vendor Ken James from Rossun Village said: “It will be great to have a new market so villagers can be happy and settled to sell their produce and earn more to take home for the family and other needs like school fee.”

The Manus Local Level Government has already demolished a dangerous, collapsed section of the roof in consultation with the Manus Provincial and Technical Services Division.

Australia is funding the renovation of the market through the additional assistance package for Manus, announced in December 2012, to support economic activity on the island.

Construction at the market is scheduled to begin in July and is expected to be completed by December.

Further information on Australia’s engagement with Manus can be found in the Manus Fact Sheets available at www.png.embassy.gov.au