Festivals Commission appeal for removal of derelict booths from ARG

Preparations are in full swing to transform the Antigua Recreation Grounds into
Carnival City with the opening of Carnival 2023 just a few weeks away, but the
Festivals Commission is asking owners of several derelict booths to remove them
from ARG immediately.
A Commission spokesman said the booths – totaling about five – are an ‘eye-sore’
and they pose a danger to human health, as they house rats and other disease-
carrying animals.
“We are asking these owners to have the booths removed voluntarily or the
Commission will have them removed. We are making this public appeal asking the
owners to remove not just the booths but any other contents of value in the
structures,” the statement declared.
“The booths in question are situated on the northeastern side of the main entrance,
next to the gate on Coronation Road. Unfortunately, the conditions of the booths
create a hazard within the area, generally and specifically during the carnival
season. As a result, the Ministry will be taking steps, in the interest of the public, to
eliminate such hazards and protect persons during the carnival season,” a media
release from the Commission stated.
Therefore, it continued that the Ministry requests that any person interested in any
of the booths mentioned, kindly remove all personal items or materials within the
next two weeks. The booths will be demolished and removed after this period.
For further information, contact the Ministry of Creative Industries at the Festivals
Office on Redcliffe Street or call (268) 462-0194. The public’s assistance will be
greatly appreciated in this endeavor.