Bartica sees 500 homes project launched

500 homes project in Bartica, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), were launched by the Housing and Water Ministry on Tuesday where the first 100 three-bedroom housing units will be constructed at Five Miles.

It was disclosed that the 864-square-foot units are pegged at $9M GUY each. Further, each unit will be equipped with a washroom, living room and a kitchen with cupboards, among other amenities.

It was disclosed that the initiative is delivering on a commitment made by President, Irfaan Ali when he led an outreach in the region in June this year. Housing and Water Minister, Collin Croal delivering remarks at the launching at the Bartica Community Centre, noted that the initial phase of the project will target young professionals in the region, including teachers and healthcare workers.

“If we are targeting 500 houses, we are basically speaking on house construction, not infrastructure, about $4B GUY investment on housing,” Croal said, while highlighting the spin-off effects of the projects, which include job creation and overall better quality of life for Bartica residents.

The minister mentioned the government’s collaborations with the commercial banks which will allow persons to benefit from low mortgage rates.

“On a 30-year lending period with a $9M GUY house means a monthly installment of $42,000…at 25 years, it’s about four thousand and something more, still below $50,000,” he explained.

Croal said that the construction of the houses forms part of the government’s developmental agenda for Region Seven. The ministry has already acquired 100 acres of land to be rolled out as part of its initial programme to reduce the backlog of more than 900 applicants in the area.

Junior Housing and Water Minister, Susan Rodrigues disclosed that the intention is to ensure every citizen achieves homeownership.

“Region seven is no different. We want to ensure that we can bring our housing construction programme to Region Seven as well and to give all of those who are interested, the opportunity to get into their own homes as quickly as possible,” she explained.

Rodrigues further explained that the ultimate goal is not just to fulfil the government’s qualitative commitment to the people in terms of numbers, but to ensure quality homes are delivered to the beneficiaries in wholesome communities.

It was revealed that several persons are registering for the programme and the banks are pre-qualifying prospective beneficiaries for loans to purchase homes. Technical officers of the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA) are also on the ground updating persons’ applications, accepting new applications and processing titles/transports, among other services.

Permanent Secretary, Andre Ally, Chief Executive Officer of the CHPA, Sherwyn Greaves and Regional Executive Officer, Kerwin Ward were also present at the event.