In a pivotal legal decision, residents of San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, have been granted an interim injunction halting the proposed relocation of the San Pedro Artisan Market. The project, headed by the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) and the San Pedro Town Council, has been met with widespread opposition due to environmental concerns and claims of inadequate community consultation.
The controversial plan, supported by Hon. Anthony Mahler, Minister of Tourism, and Hon. Andre Perez, proposed relocating the artisan market to a lagoon-side site. While authorities argued the move would improve infrastructure and tourism appeal, residents in the area expressed fears over the project’s potential ecological impact and the threat it posed to local livelihoods.
Tensions came to a head with two public demonstrations on Tuesday, September 24th, and Thursday, September 26th. Local artisans and residents gathered at “El Embarcadero” in downtown San Pedro to voice their disapproval, emphasizing the lack of consultation and potential harm to the community. Protesters also highlighted the importance of preserving the island’s cultural and natural heritage.
Legal Action Against Artisan Market
The legal action was initiated by Severo Guerrero and several long-time residents, some of whom have lived in the area for over 40 years. Represented by the father-son legal team of Oj Elrington and Senior Counsel Hubert Elrington, the residents successfully secured an interim order to halt the artisan market’s progress. The court’s decision ensures that no further work will proceed until a full hearing on the injunction application, scheduled for January 23, 2025.
This injunction provides a temporary reprieve for the concerned community members and marks a significant moment in the ongoing debate over the future of “El Embarcadero” in downtown San Pedro. Residents hope the court’s intervention will lead to a more inclusive and transparent discussion about the island’s development priorities.
As the January hearing approaches, the focus remains on balancing development with environmental preservation and community well-being. For now, San Pedro’s residents can take solace in knowing their voices have been heard and that the island’s future remains open for further dialogue and consideration.
