BASSETERRE, St. Kitts -- THE completed model smart homes were officially handed over to two families on Thursday, marking the commencement of a larger initiative to construct more than two thousand homes promised by the government.
These model homes are integral to the government’s new housing initiative, aimed at providing more durable and affordable housing options for families across the island as part of its social agenda.
Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew emphasized that the handover signifies the beginning of what lies ahead, with the government striving to ensure that homes become more affordable for citizens.
Dr. Drew explained to the gathering that by reducing costs, prospective homeowners would find it easier to secure funding from financial institutions.
"So you’re offering more at a lower cost and we are also saying that the financial institutions would be more accessible to the people of St. Kitts and Nevis to find the necessary funding," Dr. Drew stated, expressing gratitude to the financial institutions that have responded to the call for making mortgages more accessible.
The government has faced criticism throughout much of the year for the slow progress of construction. Despite various assurances regarding delays, the government failed to meet the target set out the previous year.
Acting General Manager of the National Housing Corporation, Jonelle Rawlins, highlighted the significance of the handover, stating that it marks a pivotal moment in redefining housing development in the Federation. She described the handover of the smart homes as the culmination of meticulous planning, dedication, and innovation.
"While these homes incorporate advanced construction technology, materials, and methodologies, their 'smartness' extends beyond the digital realm to encompass a holistic approach to sustainability, efficiency, and quality of life," Rawlins affirmed.
Last year, the government entered into an agreement with the Trinidad company, East Coast Housing Development Limited (ECHD), for the construction of 2,400 homes, with 600 to be delivered annually.
According to a previous statement from the St. Kitts-Nevis Information Service, the houses will be turnkey and constructed on lands allocated by NHC or on preowned plots.
