Cruise visitors and taxi operators will retain access to parts of St. John’s during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, with police planning traffic arrangements to keep the port area functioning despite security restrictions elsewhere in the capital.

Antigua and Barbuda will host CHOGM from November 1–4, bringing Commonwealth leaders, officials and other delegates to the country for meetings at several venues.

Speaking on Saturday’s Browne and Browne Show, Police Superintendent Rodney Ellis said the presence of cruise ships had been taken into account when planning closures.

“The cruise ship would be in Antigua,” Ellis said. “So, you see why Market Street and stuff, to be still open.”

Ellis, who heads the Police Traffic Department, explained that Market Street and Thames Street would continue functioning outside the security perimeter. He also said taxis would be able to leave the city, referring to a route along Newgate Street and Cross Street.

The arrangements are intended to accommodate cruise-related activity while security personnel control access around venues hosting visiting leaders and other dignitaries.

Restrictions around the Performing Arts Centre and High Street are expected to be among the most significant disruptions in St. John’s. Ellis said the area could be secured for approximately six to seven hours for the opening ceremony, including preparations before delegates arrive.

Officials indicated that barriers there were expected to be removed around 1:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. after proceedings conclude.

Everton Barnes, co-lead of the CHOGM Media and Public Affairs Committee, rejected suggestions that the entire country would be shut down.

“We are not locking down Antigua. Let me say that again. We are not locking down Antigua,” Barnes said.

He explained that restrictions would apply to particular venues and times, while supermarkets and businesses outside the affected areas would remain accessible.

Barnes said the Chamber of Commerce had been invited to a planned public town hall so business owners could question officials about access and the effects on their operations.

Ellis also assured residents that emergency vehicles would retain access through restricted areas and that regular policing would continue across Antigua and Barbuda during the summit.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: Cruise visitor and taxi access to continue during CHOGM restrictions.