New 500 housing programme to increase home ownership

Recently built homes in Ottley's Village, just above Little Italy. (Photos by Erasmus Williams)

“Since taking office in July 1995, we have transformed the housing situation in St. Kitts. There is no doubt that the construction industry has also experienced a significant boost over the past thirteen (13) years, and future projections suggest an upward spiral as the demand for home-ownership continues to rise,” said Minister of Housing, Hon. Cedric Liburd.

Speaking at a ceremony to launch an EC$50 million new housing programme that will see 500 homes built on St. Kitts, Minister Liburd said that the 2,500 homes previously built have been under several projects including the NEMA Starter Housing Project, the Imbert Construction Housing Project, the Bayview Housing Project, the CARIFESTA Housing Project and the Civil Service Housing Scheme.

He said the policy is to provide access to a safe and healthy shelter and to improve the quality of life for the people of St. Kitts and Nevis.

“Homelessness is a scourge that this country cannot afford. In our bid to meet the basic need and right to be sheltered, some of the most vulnerable in society have been granted free residential lots and pay according to their means towards ownership of the homes. Some of our most needy senior citizens have been granted lifetime access to good shelter.

“As each housing project is delivered, the Ministry explores options in new technologies to ensure our houses can be fire and hurricane resistant. Most importantly our inspectors, in collaboration with inspectors from the Ministry of Sustainable Development, work to ensure that the homes meet the strict building codes to make them safe to live,” said Minister Liburd.

He said that the demand for housing keeps escalating and the need for homes is being met, is an indication of good housing policies.

~~Adz:Left~~“The private sector has bought into the policies and the leadership that government strives to provide in meeting the needs of the citizens it serves.  Indeed this is an achievement that is unmatched and untouchable,” said Minister Liburd.

“Adequate Shelter for All is the principle that drives the Government’s thirteen year focus to provide adequate and affordable housing for the citizens of St. Kitts and the Ministry is pleased that the NHC continues to deliver by implementing programmes to bring a better quality of life to many households,” he added.

Government has long recognised that the objective approach to alleviate the housing problem is one that requires integration, cooperation and coordination which make the need for community participation an imperative.

“Our housing policy seeks to incorporate and embrace all aspects of a living environment—land use, land ownership and land development, shelter and housing, economic activity, the development of infrastructure, the provision of social services and recreational, sporting and cultural activities. This systematic and comprehensive plan of action will positively impact upon the physical, psychological, social and economic well- being of a developing people,” said Minister Liburd.