Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Ayawaso Central, Rudolph Collingwoode-Williams, has disclosed that the first phase of the redevelopment of the fire-ravaged commercial enclave behind the Royal VVIP Terminal in Accra is expected to be completed by October or November 2026.
According to him, construction works are progressing steadily at the site, where traders lost their shops and merchandise following a devastating fire outbreak earlier this year.
The redevelopment project was initiated after a January 20, 2026 fire swept through the area, destroying more than 50 makeshift shops and container structures used for commercial activities. While no lives were lost, the incident displaced several traders and caused extensive property damage.
In response, the Ayawaso Central Municipal Assembly embarked on plans to transform the enclave into a properly planned commercial facility with permanent structures and improved access routes.
Mr Collingwoode-Williams said work on the project has been ongoing for nearly two months, with foundation works already completed. He expressed optimism that the first phase would be substantially completed before the end of the year.
He explained that the redevelopment followed recommendations by Greater Accra Regional Minister Linda Ocloo, who visited the site after the fire and called for measures to improve safety and accessibility within the area.
The MCE noted that difficulties encountered by firefighters in accessing parts of the enclave during the emergency underscored the need for a more organised layout, a concern that has been incorporated into the ongoing reconstruction.
He further assured traders affected by the fire that the Assembly had compiled data on all victims and would engage the contractor and investor to explore opportunities for some of the newly constructed shops to be allocated to them at reduced rates.
