Reports reaching Nhyira Fm say the redevelopment of the Kumasi Central Market is set to begin. A source close to the Metropolitan Assembly says construction works will commence within the next two weeks. Though agreement was reached last year between the city authority and a private developer for construction of a modern market, financial constraints stalled start of work. Nhyira Fm sources say all is now set for work on the project to start. The Kumasi Central Market, the largest in West Africa with a capacity of over 60,000 traders has in less than a year recorded two incidents of fire outbreak. When completed, the Modern edifice will have facilities such as fire station, car park, shopping mall, kindergarten, banks among others. City Mayor Samuel Sarpong who did not disclose details of contract after paying a familiarization visit to the market in July last year promised to redevelop the market. The redevelopment of the market became a subject for debate after traders boycotted a stakeholders meeting to discuss the way forward after fire razed part of the market in June last year. The traders threatened to resist any attempt by government to redevelop the market for fear that the original owners would lose their stores after completion of the project. Construction works will be preceded by relocation of traders at each section market where work is to take place with phase one expected to be completed by the end of next year. The source says a resettlement site has also been provided for hawkers to register before 15th February. Meanwhile, the Ahinsan, Asawasi, Moshie Zongo and Tafo Markets will see rapid development within the next 12 months to serve as a stop-gap for traders. Bantama, Kwadaso and Suame Satellite markets will also be refurbished to accommodate traders to give way to the construction of a shopping mall, car park and other facilities. Traditional market facilities are expected to cover phase three, four and five. Public Relations Officer to the Metropolitan Chief Executive Clement Kigeri confirmed the story. Though he will not give definite day for construction work to begin, he says it could begin in at least two weeks time. By:Ohemeng Tawiah/Nhyira Fm/ Kumasi