About 250 house lots in Ordnance Fortlands, Glasgow, and Bloomfield, Region Six were allocated through the ‘One Stop Shop’ outreach held at the Rose Hall Community Centre Ground on Wednesday.
Minister of Housing and Water, Irfaan Ali said that Berbice is on the brink of tremendous economic growth and development, not only as it relates to the prospects for oil and gas but also in the production of value-added products in the agricultural sector. According to a Government Information Agency (GINA) press release Ali also said that housing is a critical step in harnessing development as it stimulates growth in the banking and manufacturing sectors and subsequently contributes to the economy.
Government has invested approximately $1.2B in housing development in Region Six over the past four years and plans are in train for more development in the region. Ali said that as the economy diversifies the need for more housing space particularly for non-Region Six residents will increase and as such rental rates will also increase rapidly. In light of this, he noted that it then becomes necessary that all members of society are in a position that will ensure that they are not exploited.
In referring to “the contentious $4B, which was sought by the Ministry in Parliament to advance housing development,” the minister said government is committed to making huge investments in the interest of the nation. He said too the bridging of the Corentyne River will lead to more housing developments in the Moleson Creek/Crabwood Creek area.
In addition, Regional Chairman Zulfikar Mustapha said that it was a very historic day for those persons who received their house lots. He added that the ‘One Stop Shop’ initiative is a very innovative idea.
Chief Executive Officer at the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), Myrna Pitt pointed out that the agency’s mandate does not end with the allocation of lots but extends to the development of sustainable and viable communities. The CH&PA made presentations on building regulations which are geared at ensuring the safety of the persons who will inhabit the lot with the Core Homes Pilot programme which offers basic minimum shelter for persons whose household income does not exceed $60,000 per month.
