The long-awaited redevelopment of Temple Yard, a cherished cultural and craft hub in The City, is finally set to commence this year, marking an exciting step forward for the community and its artisans. Officials from the Barbados Tourism Investment Inc. (BTI) have assured that the revamped space will offer artisans new opportunities in a modernized environment, fostering creativity and economic growth.
BTI’s spokesperson, Joy-Ann Haigh, confirmed that construction preparations are underway, with plans to secure the site and begin upgrades shortly. While no specific start dates have been announced, Haigh emphasized that transparency and collaboration with stakeholders remain central to the process.
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Temple Yard holds a special place in the heart of Barbados, offering handcrafted goods, local produce, and artisanal furniture for decades. Prime Minister Mia Mottley’s vision of inclusiveness and fairness, announced in 2019, set the stage for this transformation, aiming to uplift the space and celebrate the country’s cultural heritage.
The area, which had fallen into disrepair in recent years, will now be revitalized into a vibrant craft and cultural centre. Artisans have already been actively engaged in consultations, and Haigh reassured that everyone with a legitimate claim would have the chance to return to the improved facility.
Haigh highlighted that many artisans have embraced the changes. Fifteen vendors have been temporarily relocated to the Pelican Craft Centre, while others chose to wait for the redevelopment to conclude or explore other opportunities in the meantime. Those who required assistance with relocating or salvaging materials from their stalls were supported by the BTI, showcasing the organization’s commitment to collaboration.
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“We’ve conducted extensive consultations with artisans to ensure their voices are heard. The new Temple Yard will provide a space for creativity to thrive, and artisans will have the opportunity to apply for stalls and propose their offerings. This is about creating a sustainable and vibrant future for all involved,” Haigh explained.
While some concerns have been raised regarding written assurances for stall allocations, Haigh emphasized that every artisan would be formally notified of timelines, construction updates, and the application process. Vendors have also been encouraged to reach out directly to BTI representatives for any clarifications or assistance.
This redevelopment symbolizes a brighter chapter for Temple Yard, one that promises to honor its rich history while introducing modern facilities and a fresh vibrancy. The commitment to supporting artisans and fostering inclusivity ensures that the new Temple Yard will remain a treasured part of Barbados’s cultural landscape for generations to come.
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