The Housing Development Corporation has increased security at community malls at housing schemes to allow shoppers to feel a sense of safety and security.
This was disclosed by the HDC’s Manager of Commercial Properties Maurisa Findlay.
Findlay toured the HDC’s Maloney Mall expo on Monday where several entrepreneurs showcased their local merchandise including food, home renovation services, landscaping services and plant displays, cleaning products and locally made pesticides.
Findlay said that HDC was currently installing surveillance security cameras in around its commercial properties as well as hiring armed guards for patrol.
She added that there had also been an increase in applications by prospective shop owners for the subsidised commercial spaces, which were leased for three years.
Resident Mavis Samuel said she welcomed the HDC’s initiative and said that it would save residents from having to face traffic to go to the main towns and malls to shop.
“I know it will save time and money to go out there. Here would be better and more convenient, not only for me but my neighbours here in the community. I like what they doing and I love that they looking at our safety as well especially due to the increase of crime in communities like these.”
Another resident, who only identified himself as Gerald, said that he also welcomed the initiative as “it will enable the people here to become more constructive in getting their own sales of any kind out there. The youth could be able to start up their own businesses even if it’s selling music or hairdressing or seamstress and tailoring services.”
The mall is hosting several activities over this week including a fashion show by Miss T&T Universe, mini health fair, Independence fashion parade, Independence Day corridor sale and back-to-school flash sale, which will be held on September 3 from 10 pm to midnight.