Market, bus stand relocation key to new Navua town plan

The proposed relocation of Navua’s market and bus stand to Thompson Park is a key part of plans to develop the town ahead of its expected declaration as Fiji’s newest town on August 28.

Minister for Local Government Maciu Nalumisa said the ministry was amending Navua’s scheme plan to move the bus stand and carrier stand to Thompson Park, closer to the Central Business District.

The relocation is expected to affect residents, commuters, traders and businesses as the town prepares for a new phase of development.

“That’s part of our plan. It’s still happening,” Mr Nalumisa said when asked if Navua would be declared as expected.

He said temporary works were under way while the ministry awaited final approval.

“There’s no bus stand in Navua,” he said, adding that the existing market near the riverbank would also be relocated to Thompson Park.

Mr Nalumisa said the ministry was also in discussions with the Ministry of Lands about establishing a recreational park along Navua’s back road.

The Government is also working to preserve the Saiyad Baba prayer site near the existing market, following calls during public consultation for the site to be protected.

Mr Nalumisa said the prayer site was part of Navua’s heritage and held significant historical value.

“It’s also near the Navua Market. Once we have relocated the market, we can have a small (space to) maintain that,” he said.

On the lack of a footpath on the road leading into Navua from the bridge, Mr Nalumisa said the Fiji Roads Authority would lead a strategy to improve footpaths along access roads.

Meanwhile, Minister for Agriculture Tomasi Tunabuna said the ministry had long supported Navua’s rice farmers through machinery assistance and extension services.

He said paddy rice had not performed as well as dry-land rice because of labour shortages.

Navua is tentatively scheduled to be declared a town on August 28.