Minister of Housing and Water, Colin Croal, spearheaded a comprehensive site inspection on Tuesday, overseeing the progress of the new headquarters being constructed for the housing and water ministry.
Positioned along the Mandela to Eccles Highway in Houston, East Bank Demerara, the complex will comprise two buildings. One building is designated to accommodate the ministry’s secretariat and the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), while the other will serve as the headquarters for the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI).
Minister Croal emphasized the imperative of a larger and more modern facility to accommodate the expanding staff, noting the ministry’s growing mandate. “Our staff keeps increasing so we have an issue of accommodation, so we are trying to push the contractor to be able to complete in time,” he emphasized.
The construction of the five-story housing ministry building comes at a cost of $741.5 million, while the four-story GWI building is estimated at $562 million.
Updating on the progress, Minister Croal explained, “The building is five floors and they are at the second floor…A lot of persons have been asking, they haven’t been seeing activities, and that is because the contractor is awaiting some additional materials that have now arrived, and they will recommence work.”
The frame of the building is projected to be completed by mid-year, with all aspects of construction slated for completion by the end of the year.
Highlighting the significance of the new facility, Minister Croal underscored its role in streamlining operations, enhancing efficiency and effectiveness. Centralizing all offices in one location will simplify business transactions for individuals, he noted.
However, the projects department, housing approximately 200 staff, will remain at the existing location.
CEO of the CH&PA, Serwyn Greaves, anticipates an improved experience for visitors with the new building. “There wouldn’t be this cluster and this cramped environment anymore so it will be a pleasure visiting,” he remarked.
Concurrently, construction of the GWI headquarters has commenced, with CEO Sheik Baksh expressing efforts to expedite completion before the 18-month contract duration. Currently, GWI rents four buildings across Georgetown, incurring significant costs.
Minister Croal reiterated the aim to have both agencies occupying the new headquarters in the new year, signifying a significant milestone in enhancing operational capacity and service delivery.
