May29, 2009… Minister of Agriculture Lands, Housing and The Environment Hilson Baptiste unveiled a housing development project earmarked for the community of Mac Pond, Thursday night, during a public consultation.

The Housing minister while addressing the over 100 villagers at the JT Ambrose Primary, disclosed that this development of 312 houses will be a model community built for small and middle income earners, who are first time home owners.

Ninety (90) for of these homes are two bedrooms while the remaining 218 are three bedrooms.

The prices range from just over $100,000 to $250,000. According to the minister the initiative is joint venture between the government of Antigua & Barbuda and a private developer.

Both parties will put in the infrastructure, he said.

Baptiste explained that the fifty (50) acres of lands on which the community will be built was reclaimed from a private citizen, after investigation revealed the individual in question paid only $ 1 for the total acreage of 100 under the ALP government.

He explained that a study was conducted in 200 and the need for houses across the country was huge.

The minister said that, “developments in Antigua have been poor, without infrastructure.”
Baptiste added that other housing projects are earmarked for North Sound, Urlings, Donovons, Seaview Farms, Lyons Estate and Folly Hill.

In the meantime, Member of Parliament for All Saints East & St Luke Chester Hughes said the seeking of his constituents’ involvement in the implementation and development process is a fulfillment of a promise made during his campaign.

Hughes assured the villagers that whatever works that will be done on this development; he will ensure that they receive first preference.

Also attending the consultation were Junior Minister of Agriculture, Lands, Housing and the Environment Chanlah Codrington and the developers.