$100 Million Allocated to Expand Antigua and Barbuda’s Housing Sector

Antigua and Barbuda is set to see a significant expansion in affordable and climate-resilient housing developments in 2025, with $100 million allocated to new and ongoing housing projects across the country. Prime Minister Gaston Browne, in presenting the 2025 Budget, highlighted these investments as critical to improving living standards and addressing the housing shortage for middle- and low-income families.

“Our vision for the nation’s development is people-centric, prioritizing improved living standards and prosperity for all citizens,” Browne declared. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to tackling housing challenges, particularly for vulnerable populations, through strategic public and private partnerships.

One of the standout projects is the Booby Alley Housing Development, financed through a $60 million grant from the People’s Republic of China. The development will see the construction of 150 climate-resilient, condominium-style homes designed to provide modern and dignified housing for low-income families. “This project reaffirms our government’s commitment to progress through meaningful partnerships,” Browne said, adding that the development is expected to be completed by the second quarter of 2026.

Another major initiative is the Louis Hill Housing Development in Barbuda, which forms part of the government’s broader master plan for the island’s growth. Phase one of the project, estimated at $8 million, will begin in the second quarter of 2025. This development reflects the administration’s focus on ensuring Barbuda’s continued transformation into a hub of opportunity and economic activity.

To address the immediate housing needs of low-income families, the government will expand the Sustainable Island Resource Framework (SIRF) Fund in 2025. This fund provides home improvement loan financing for individuals in vulnerable communities, enabling them to renovate and enhance their existing homes. Additionally, the HAPPI (Home Assistance Programme for People in Need) grant program for home repairs will receive increased funding to support more applicants in 2025.

To accelerate construction, the government has also removed the requirement for work permits for skilled workers from outside the Caribbean region, provided they register with the Labour Department. Browne acknowledged the shortage of skilled workers as a factor slowing construction projects, stating, “This temporary measure will ensure that housing developments progress unhindered.”

The National Housing and Urban Renewal Company will play a central role in these efforts. Since its inception, the company has invested over $400 million in land development and home construction, enabling thousands of families to achieve homeownership. In 2025, it plans to expand its projects across the island, ensuring that more citizens can benefit from affordable and accessible housing options.

The government’s housing initiatives are not limited to residential developments. Significant investments will also be made in infrastructure to support these projects. For instance, roadworks and utilities upgrades will be prioritized in areas where new housing developments are planned, ensuring that residents have access to essential services.

Beyond addressing housing shortages, the government’s investments are expected to have a broader economic impact. By engaging local contractors, suppliers, and workers, the projects will generate significant employment opportunities and stimulate economic activity in the construction sector. “These investments are not just about building homes; they are about creating jobs and supporting local businesses,” Browne emphasized.

The Prime Minister also highlighted the importance of promoting homeownership among Antiguans and Barbudans. Through targeted incentives and support programs, the government aims to empower citizens to invest in their own homes, fostering economic independence and stability. “We are creating opportunities for our people to own a piece of the rock and a place they can call home,” Browne said.

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