OCHO RIOS
THE RISING cost of housing construction in Jamaica has sent the National Housing Trust back to the drawing board to revise how intends to provide affordable housing to the majority of its contributors.
Instead of continuing to build studio units with yard space for its contributors, the NHT intends to start constructing highrise two-bedroom units, up to a maximum of four stories.
This was disclosed by NHT Chairman, Kingsley Thomas, while delivering the main address at the official launch of the Trust's Best Kept Scheme competition at Ruins Restaurant in Ocho Rios, St. Ann, on Friday. Mr. Thomas explained that the construction of high-rise units will require less land space for more units and that the infrastructure cost, which are significant will be shared among several units. He said this will enable the NHT to provide a more spacious unit at a price which is not much more than that of the studio units.
Since the early 1990s the NHT has been focusing on the small studio units as the solution to the growing housing need. But according to Mr. Thomas, the price has increased considerably from $90,000 each to the stage where it no longer appears to give value for money. Also, he said, a studio unit was not suitable for both parents with children and sometimes grandchildren. "As a result, the NHT has been searching for a solution which would solve the problem of space and affordability, he added.
Mr. Thomas pointed out that the newly found solution will require some changes in the expectations of new home owners, who will be without individual land space.
"While individual land space may be non-existent, it is however planned to provide substantial open space, common areas for use by residents."
The NHT chairman continued, "This will provide challenges relating to co-operation and order. But these are challenges, which I am sure we will meet and overcome, as we strive to provide affordable and acceptable housing solutions for the people of Jamaica."
Referring to the theme of the revised Best Kept Scheme Competition, "A Better Community, a Better Jamaica, My Responsibility", Mr. Thomas said it points back to the place where people can start tackling some of the pressing social problems affecting the country and that the place to begin is in the small community such as a housing scheme.
He urged residents in NHT schemes to show respect for the environment, respect to laws of the country and to co-operate with each other in order to effectively deal with problems affecting their communities.
