Latest update November 23rd, 2024 1:00 AM
Latest News
Corrective works for Turn-key homes to cost over $100M
Corrective works on Turn-key homes is expected to cost Govt. over $100M
“We have inherited a series of horror stories” – CH&PA Chairman
Twisted concrete walls, floors doing a special dance, steps taking a journey from the house, roofs which apparently took a holiday and sanitary facilities which seem to be falling apart, are just some of the characteristics of the much-touted turn-key homes which were piloted by the previous administration.
Yesterday, during a press conference, Chairman of the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), Hamilton Green said that the Ministry of Communities has literally inherited “a series of horror stories”.
Green said that a review of the turn-key housing project has revealed nothing but suffering by homeowners who expected proper homes with basic facilities as promised by the former administration. He said that the repairs will now cost over $100M.
Green promised that all efforts will be put into changing the state of affairs. He noted, however, that it will take time, but works should commence within two weeks to rectify the problems those homeowners now face.
The CH&PA Chairman said that the Ministry of Communities has appointed a board to assist with this process. He said that they have already made recommendations to effectively cater for the lower middle income category of potential homeowners.
He said that well over 200 homes have been started in the turn-key project with more than 50 already completed. He said that about 40 homes are in the stage of completion.
Green asserted, “Over the past few months, we felt it prudent to begin a series of visits and board members visited projects in Region Four and Three. This process will continue throughout the country. But it is clear that we inherited a programme that seems to be ill conceived, and truth be told, it is not delivering to the beneficiaries what they should have received.”
The CH&PA Chairman said, “That inheritance has left us with a number of horror stories. We met persons at Perseverance and Providence who had moved into their homes but were forced to move out because of the conditions.”
Green said that when the question of surcharging those who produced the poor quality work was raised, they were told that the period for that has passed.
He said, “But I want the people to know that this government and board are committed to ensuring that those residents no longer suffer. Some residents claim that they are paying rent and mortgage, and it is frustrating. We will pursue measures with the cooperation of the minster.”
Green revealed too that CH&PA’s Board was at a loss for words when they discovered that soil tests were not done on the lands that were used for construction of these homes. He noted, however, that with a new methodology and approach, soil tests will be done. With the help of experienced engineers like Bert Carter, Green promised homeowners that the issues will be addressed and rectified.
Similar Articles
THE BLUNT OF THE DAY
Sports
Features/Columnists
Let us not be silent witnesses!
…Peeping Tom kaieteur News- Ray Daggers walked from Corriverton to Charity. It was a journey so epic it might have... more
Rising Gun Crimes in the Caribbean: Urgent Action required by all
By Sir Ronald Sanders Kaieteur News – There is an alarming surge in gun-related violence, particularly among younger... more
Weekend Cartoon
