By Nadia Ibrahim/Mariam Haruna
Accra, May 30, GNA – Reconstruction works have commenced at the site behind the Royal VVIP Terminal in Accra that was destroyed by a fire outbreak in January this year.
Mr Rudolph Collingwoode-Williams, Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of Ayawaso Central, told the Ghana News Agency in an interview that the first phase of the redevelopment project was expected to be completed by October or November 2026.
The fire, which occurred on January 20, 2026, destroyed more than 50 makeshift shops and wooden structures, sending thick black smoke into the sky and triggering panic within the busy transport enclave.
Although no casualties were recorded, several kiosks stocked with goods, including gas cylinders and electrical appliances, were destroyed.
Investigations are yet to establish the cause of the fire
Mr Collingwoode-Williams said the Assembly had begun transforming the area from a cluster of wooden and containerised structures into a properly planned commercial facility with permanent block shops and improved access routes.
He said the redevelopment initiative followed recommendations by Madam Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, the Greater Accra Regional Minister, after she visited the site in the aftermath of the fire.
According to the MCE, difficulties encountered by firefighters in accessing the scene contributed to the spread of the blaze, highlighting the need for proper planning and access routes within the area.
Following consultations involving the Assembly and the area’s Member of Parliament, a contractor and investor were engaged to undertake the project.
Mr Collingwoode-Williams said construction work had been ongoing for nearly two months, with foundation works already completed.
He expressed optimism that the first phase of the project would be substantially completed by the end of the year.
The MCE said the Assembly had compiled data on affected persons and assured traders that discussions would be held with the contractor or investor to make some of the newly constructed shops available to them at discounted rates.
He added that the Assembly was also considering measures to support affected persons as they worked to rebuild their livelihoods.
Mr Collingwoode-Williams said the redevelopment exercise would eventually be extended to adjoining portions of the area in subsequent phases.
Touching on investigations into the cause of the fire, he said the Assembly was yet to receive an official report from the Ghana National Fire Service.
He assured affected traders that the Assembly remained committed to helping them resume their economic activities after the redevelopment.
GNA
Edited by Agnes Boye-Doe
Reporters: Nadia Ibrahim/Mariam Haruna