–scores of families move closer to home ownership after being allocated house lots
THE Government of Guyana, through the Ministry of Housing and Water and the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), on Friday, launched a new housing scheme at Hof Van Aurich and by the end of the day, over 200 house lots were distributed.

Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, during a housing outreach at the Regional Housing Office announced that the newly-opened development spans more than 100 acres and is located approximately 1.5 miles inland from the main road.

In its initial phase, the scheme will accommodate up to 400 residential house lots, with expansion plans already underway to meet the region’s growing housing demand.

“This is now the third major housing area being developed by the ministry in Region Two,” Minister Croal stated.

“Despite the challenges, we are pushing forward with development and working closely with the relevant agencies to resolve outstanding issues in areas like Lima Sands, Charity, and Onderneeming.”

He noted that the new housing scheme is a continuation of the government’s comprehensive housing programme. Just a few years ago, the region’s housing department was operating out of the RDC building, but the growing demand led to expanded services and dedicated infrastructure. To further improve the delivery of services, upgrades to that building are imminent.

Minister Croal also confirmed that additional lands have been made available for housing at Charity and Onderneeming through collaboration with the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission over the years.

He emphasised that the process of opening new housing areas involves significant groundwork such as planning, surveys, and infrastructure development, before allocations are made.

Between 2015 and 2020, only 1,271 lots were allocated in Region Two. But, under the current PPP/C administration, over 53,000 house lots have been distributed nationwide, well beyond the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C)’s manifesto promises of 10,000 house lots annually.

“As your government secures more revenue, we are reinvesting it directly into communities like yours,” the minister stated. “People now have more disposable income, and through government housing programmes, they are gaining access to affordable land and support to build their homes.”

Meanwhile, many of the beneficiaries had applied over two years ago and on Friday they expressed their relief and excitement at finally being allocated a lot.

“This is a dream come true,” said Abiola James, one of the new landowners. “I’m happy the government is making this easier for people. I won’t have to pay rent anymore.”

Residents were also given the opportunity to visit and see the location of their new lots firsthand.

Regional Chairperson Vilma De Silva praised the initiative, calling it a “positive move” for Region Two, especially amid the growing housing demand. “This is exactly what the region needs. The government is meeting people where they are and making real, impactful investments,” she stated.

RESOLVING LAND OWNERSHIP ISSUES

During the launch, Minister Croal used the opportunity to addressed the persistent land regularisation issues in several Region Two communities especially in Lima Sands. He said building surveys and household inventories have been completed and approximately 45 families will receive land titles by the end of August.

In Paradise, Jib, Mariah’s Lodge and Walton Hall, about 60 house lots are undergoing title processing. For Good Hope Reserve, 40 lots are in the planning stage for ownership determination.

Since 2011, more than 226 house lots have been regularised in the region, with another 190 lots currently being processed.

While lands have been allocated in Charity, Minister Croal acknowledged that flooding has hindered development. He assured residents that both the Drainage and Irrigation Authority and the Sea and River Defence Department are working to fix this. New drainage pumps are being procured and installed.

Revetment works are also being carried out to strengthen coastal defences.

“Flooding cannot be ignored,” Minister Croal stressed. “We are addressing it on both inland and coastal fronts so that when we show you your lot, you’re ready to build,” he added.

The government is also improving access to treated water in the region. Some $3.3 billion has been invested in housing infrastructure in Region Two and treated water coverage has increased from 52 per cent to 85 per cent in the last five years.

In the hinterland and Pomeroon areas, over $12 million is being spent this year alone to expand water access. Projects include drilled wells and system upgrades in Dredge Creek, St. Monica, Mashabo, Capoey, and Mainstay (which is receiving a second well). There is presently ongoing works being done in Bethany, Karawab, Wakapoa, Siriki, Abrams Creek, and St. Deny’s Mission.

A new water barge is stationed in the Pomeroon to supply remote villages.

The Housing Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Bishram Kuppen and Regional Chairperson, Vilma De Silva, were on hand to assist with the selection process for the first set of allottees. CH&PA’s Director of Operations, Denise King-Tudor, and Director of Community Development, Gladwin Charles, were also present.