The master plan and relocation of the Bazurto market: key elements for Cartagena’s urban transformation

On April 7, we concluded our consulting project for relocating the Bazurto Market and conceptualizing the Urban Revitalization Master Plan. This project is crucial for Cartagena de Indias’s urban, economic, and cultural future. During a meeting with Mayor Dumek Turbay and his district cabinet, we presented the final deliverables and key findings from our work under the agreement with the Cartagena Chamber of Commerce.

Throughout the project, we developed a comprehensive methodological proposal to evaluate the market’s relocation and define the conceptual foundations of the master plan for the area it currently occupies. Our work focused on providing technical, analytical, and conceptual input to support the District Administration’s decision-making process.

As a result, we have delivered a preliminary technical analysis that addresses the market’s urban, logistical, and land use challenges and opportunities for transforming the surrounding area. The project proposes a comprehensive intervention aligned with the Land Use Plan currently under development. The intervention aims to address historical issues related to urban planning, mobility, and logistics while preserving the market’s identity and enhancing its economic, gastronomic, tourist, and cultural value.

The revitalization proposal for the existing market area is structured in three phases and includes mechanisms for engaging merchants and local stakeholders. It also includes an evaluation of governance and financing models to ensure the project’s medium- and long-term viability.

Regarding the relocation of the central wholesale market, the study identifies a strategic site within the city as the most suitable alternative, prioritizing the Mamonal–Gambote area. This location would establish a modern, sustainable supply system for Cartagena, complemented by a network of sectoral markets that would strengthen urban logistics and food distribution.