The Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly (STMA) has held a stakeholder meeting to address growing concerns over the unauthorized use of licensed reserved parking spaces for trading and displaying goods within the Takoradi Central Business District (CBD). The meeting brought together shop owners licensed for reserve parking, traders opposite the old Market Circle police station, Carlos Enterprise and My Brother supermarket area.

Addressing the meeting, the Metro Legal Liaison Officer, Edward Quartey, stressed the Assembly's concern over several traders and shop owners having converted designated parking spaces into unauthorized selling points, obstructing vehicular movement and causing congestion. He noted that this situation not only disrupts commercial activities but also poses safety risks to pedestrians and motorists in the metropolis.

Mr Quartey further stated the need for compliance with the Assembly’s bye-laws and regulations to maintain order within the CBD. He added that parking spaces are reserved for vehicles to facilitate smooth business operations and ensure accessibility to commercial establishments. The continuous encroachment of these spaces by traders and businesses undermines urban management, he concluded.

The Public Relations Officer, Mr. John Laste, reassured all stakeholders of the Assembly's commitment to create a well-structured, business-friendly environment that benefits all sectors of the metropolis. He, therefore, implored the public to support the efforts to ensure orderliness within the CBD of Takoradi by reporting violations and adhering to the approved regulations.

The stakeholders shared their perspectives on the issue during the open forum session. Some acknowledged the challenge but appealed for more time and continuous education before strictly enforcing the unauthorized use of the parking spaces.

The meeting agreed on temporary measures to curb the unauthorized use of parking spaces for trading activities and bulk breaking. The Assembly has decided to identify a designated place within the CBD for bulk breaking and strengthened the collaboration with the on-street parking service provider to ensure compliance with the uses of the reserved parking spaces.