–through Model Village Initiative, President Ali announces

RESIDENTS of Charity were presented with an ambitious package of infrastructure, waterfront and community development plans on Monday, as government advances its Model Village Initiative across Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam).
The public consultation, held at the Charity Secondary School, was attended by President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali along with Cabinet Ministers and focused on proposed improvements aimed at transforming Charity into a stronger, safer, greener and more climate-resilient community.
The proposed Community Development Area covers approximately 271 acres, encompassing residential, commercial and public spaces throughout the community.
Among the major proposals is the development of the Charity waterfront, which is expected to become a more organised and attractive public space while improving safety and accessibility.
Under the concept, dedicated mooring berths would be established for small boats, providing safer and more efficient docking facilities for persons using the waterfront.
The plans also include improved lighting along the waterfront and streets, upgraded pedestrian walkways, landscaping, planters, waterfront railings and additional green spaces.
According to the proposed plans, the waterfront development is intended to create community spaces where residents can gather, relax and participate in recreational activities.
Tree planting and landscaping are also expected to form an important part of the project, providing shade, improving the environment and helping to create a cooler and healthier public space.
The proposed works extend beyond the waterfront.
The government’s plans include improvements to roads, drainage, culverts and other infrastructure, with a focus on building a community capable of better withstanding climate-related impacts.
The presentation identified Charity as a strategic riverfront gateway connecting communities along the Pomeroon River with the Essequibo Coast.
Charity has historically developed around agriculture, fishing, river commerce and the Charity Market, which remains an important centre for farmers, fisherfolk, vendors and entrepreneurs.
The proposed development seeks to build on that existing identity while creating improved spaces for commerce, transportation, recreation and community activities.
The 271-acre development area currently includes 16 public facilities, 12 private facilities, one community ground and proposed green space.
Public facilities identified include the Charity Fire Station, Police Station, Mosque, Magistrates’ Court, Charity Market, Charity/Urasara Neighbourhood Democratic Council building, Charity Post Office, cemetery, day-care centre, churches and a temple.
Three government schools and a government service centre are also identified within the development area.
The consultation also focused on how the proposed works could affect properties and access within the community.
Residents received information on road reserves, encumbrances, private bridges and maintaining access to properties during construction.
Detailed maps were presented showing the proposed boundaries, roads, drainage systems, culverts, utility poles, hydrants and public facilities.
Concept designs were also expected to give residents a visual understanding of how selected streets could look following the proposed upgrades.
The government outlined five key areas for discussion during the consultation: what is being proposed, the objectives, package of works and delivery phases, implications for properties, the detailed maps and infrastructure, and the concept designs.
Residents were also given an opportunity to raise concerns and seek clarification on the proposals.
The initiative is being promoted as a long-term effort to transform communities through coordinated investments in infrastructure, drainage, public spaces, roads and other essential services.
For Charity, the proposed works are expected to build on its role as a river and market community while positioning the town for future growth.
The overarching vision presented at the consultation is to move Charity from a traditional river-and-market community toward a stronger, greener and more climate-resilient future.