Government to Establish New Agency for Transforming Derelict Buildings and Vacant Lots into Housing Solutions in Barbados
The Government of Barbados is establishing a new agency to convert derelict buildings and vacant lots into housing solutions, aiming to address the country's housing deficit. The project has secured funding from the Inter-American Development Bank for technical studies. Minister of Housing Dwight Sutherland stated that there are currently 18,000 housing applications pending, with 8,000 homes still needed to meet demand. The government plans to work with property owners, rather than taking advantage of them, to repurpose these properties for housing. The government is partnering with East-West Solutions, Dura Villa, and HOPE to construct 10,000 homes, with ongoing progress across various locations. The construction of infrastructure to support the homes is a significant factor in the pace of development. Additional housing plans are also being considered for residents of the City of Bridgetown, with potential relocations and new developments in Greenfield and Halls Road.