Mr. Speaker,
I rise today to provide this Honourable House and the people of Bermuda with an update on the Government's Housing Infrastructure Projects Programme and the next steps being taken under Phase 2 of this important initiative.
As Honourable Members are aware, Phase 1 of the Housing Infrastructure Projects Programme is currently underway, with several housing development projects progressing through various stages of implementation.
Building on the progress being made under Phase 1, the Ministry of Housing and Municipalities, working in partnership with the Bermuda Housing Corporation and the Bermuda Land Management Corporation, is now advancing Phase 2 of the Housing Infrastructure Projects Programme through the identification and assessment of additional sites for future housing development.
Mr. Speaker, the sites currently identified for consideration under Phase 2 include:
- Maria Hill, Sandy’s Parish
- Tudor Hill, Southampton Parish
- Ocean View, Warwick
- Ewing Street, City of Hamilton
- Harbourview, St. David's
These sites already form part of the existing property portfolios of the Bermuda Housing Corporation (BHC) and the Bermuda Land Management Corporation (BLMC) and are being advanced through the collaborative efforts of both organizations.
Collectively, these locations represent the next phase of the Government's efforts to increase housing opportunities across Bermuda through the strategic development of publicly owned properties already within the two quangos’ housing portfolio. The sites have been identified based on their potential to contribute to the expansion of the Island's housing stock while supporting the broader objective of increasing access to affordable housing.
It is currently anticipated that Maria Hill, Tudor Hill, and Ewing Street could be developed primarily as affordable rental housing opportunities, while Ocean View and Harbourview are being contemplated for a homeownership development.
Mr. Speaker,
While these sites have now been identified, preparation work is still in early stages. Once the sites are confirmed, detailed assessments will be undertaken to determine the most appropriate development approach for each location, including site layouts, building configurations, infrastructure requirements, housing mix, and ultimately the number of residential units that can be accommodated.
Mr. Speaker, we believe it is important to engage the public and surrounding communities early in this process. Housing developments become part of the fabric of the neighbourhoods in which they are built, and providing information about our intentions at this stage reflects our commitment to transparency and open communication.
The proposed sites have not yet been finalized. By sharing this information now, residents can remain informed about the locations currently being advanced under Phase 2 and follow the evolution of these projects as planning progresses.
Community input will continue to play an important role as we move from concept planning toward implementation. To support this engagement, a public meeting is being planned for August, during which these sites, and potentially others under consideration, will be discussed. The meeting will provide an opportunity for residents to share their views and raise any concerns so they can be considered as early as possible in the process.
While the date and venue have not yet been finalized, the Ministry of Housing and Municipalities will provide further details to the public as soon as they are confirmed.
Mr. Speaker, the transition from Phase 1 to Phase 2 demonstrates this Government's continued commitment to increasing housing opportunities across Bermuda. Through strategic infrastructure investments, careful planning, and collaboration across Government, we are creating the conditions necessary to deliver affordable rental housing, expand opportunities for home ownership, and strengthen communities throughout the island.
These projects represent more than the development of land. They represent an investment in Bermuda's people, our communities, and our future. By making targeted investments in housing infrastructure today, we are laying the foundation for stronger, more resilient communities tomorrow.
The Ministry looks forward to providing further updates to this Honourable House as work progresses on these important initiatives.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
