Video: Minister On Affordable Housing Initiative
The Ministry of Public Works, in collaboration with the BHC, is partnering with the Leopard’s Club International to transform the vacant three-storey building into affordable housing units, Minister of Public Works Lt/Col David Burch said.
Speaking at a press conference today, Minister Burch said, “Good afternoon, everyone. Thank you for joining us here today at the Leopard’s Club International, a location that will soon play an important role in helping address one of Bermuda’s most pressing challenges – the shortage of affordable housing.
“It was January 27th, 2007- some 17 years ago – when this structure caught fire and has remained vacant ever since. At that time the Bermuda Housing Corporation assisted those displaced by the fire – so this return is like coming back home.
“As many of you know, Bermuda has long struggled with a lack of affordable rental units, which affects countless families across the island. This issue is of great importance to Government, and we continue to be creative and proactive in looking for ways to increase the availability of affordable homes. This project is yet another example of that commitment.
“Many of the team scour the island for vacant and derelict properties that have potential to address our housing needs and explore the options of using them.
“This initiative is part of our broader strategy to address the growing demand for affordable housing. We are determined to revitalise neglected or unused buildings, ensuring they contribute to the well-being of our community rather than being left to deteriorate. We can bring these buildings back to life through substantial public investment, creating spaces where people can live comfortably and affordably.
“Today, I am proud to announce that the Ministry of Public Works, in collaboration with the Bermuda Housing Corporation, is partnering with the Leopard’s Club International to transform this vacant three-storey building behind me into affordable housing units. Even though 17 years has passed since the fire – the building remains structurally sound and can be renovated.
“By repurposing this unused structure, we are not only preserving an important piece of Hamilton’s heritage but also creating much-needed homes for Bermudians.
“The Leopard’s Club building, which is seven thousand six hundred and forty-three [7,643] square feet, requires significant renovations. We approached the Leopard’s Club organisation several months ago and began discussions.
“The plan was presented to the membership, and I subsequently attended a membership meeting to clarify and confirm the plan. Work will include structural repairs, full electrical and plumbing upgrades to current code, modernisation, and aesthetic improvements. Once completed, the building will feature 13 residential units made up of studios and one-bedroom apartments.
“Each unit will contain a bathroom, kitchenette, washing machine and bedroom space. Residents will also have access to a range of amenities, including storage space, a lounge and self-serving café area, an elevator, a new parking lot, and exterior amenity grounds.
“The total cost of this renovation is estimated at four-point eight million dollars [$4.8 million], and the project is expected to take 22 months to complete. The Government will recoup its investment through rental income generated from these new homes over the next several years.
“This project is made possible by the recent increase in funding allocated to the Bermuda Housing Corporation. In this fiscal budget, the public will recall that we committed an additional $10 million to the BHC to accelerate the availability of affordable homes across the Island.
“This is considered part of the Private Sector Refurbishment Programme – where private units are renovated by the Corporation, then temporarily added to their stock, managed under a specific timeframe agreement to repay the funds and then ultimately returned to the owner.
“This boost in funding allows us to expedite critical projects like this one and refurbish privately owned units, increasing the stock of affordable housing without having to rely exclusively on new construction.
“Our goal is simple: to ensure every Bermudian can access safe, comfortable, and affordable housing. Today’s announcement is another step to making that vision a reality.
“I want to thank the team at the Bermuda Housing Corporation, the executive and membership of the Leopard’s Club International for their partnership in this project. Together, we are taking meaningful steps to address Bermuda’s housing crisis and improve the lives of our residents.”
