Plots of land that were left vacant following the shifting of the old central market from Abu Hamour should be better utilised by the authorities concerned to prevent them from being misused as waste dumping grounds or parking lots for abandoned vehicles, a number of Qataris have suggested.
They told local Arabic daily Arrayah recently that these plots, which offer ample space, should be used to provide various public services and facilities for the benefit of people living in the area.
Their suggestions include creating a public park or other recreational facilities to improve the lifestyle of the residents there.
Earlier, some members of the Central Municipal Council (CMC) discussed this issue and stressed the importance of making good use of such land due to its key location in Doha and the high population density there.
The suggestions for development included creating a traditional folk market inspired by Qatari heritage, where a number of various commercial outlets will be located to sell mainly traditional products and promote handicrafts, in addition to offering clothes, honey, dates, and desert truffles, among others.
The councillors also suggested that a section of this market be allocated to productive families to help them market and promote their products.
The market should also be fully air-conditioned.
Other suggestions include creating a "social café" with dedicated places for the elderly.
Further, Qatari artists should be engaged in designing and decorating the place.
The vast area that used to host the central market, a livestock market and slaughterhouse, is currently lying vacant.