Consultation Opens On Derelict Homes Plan
The Ministry of Housing and Municipalities is inviting public feedback on a proposed framework that ”seeks to address the growing number of vacant and derelict residential properties in Bermuda and explore ways to return them to productive use.”
A Government spokesperson said, “The Ministry of Housing and Municipalities is inviting members of the public to review and provide feedback on its Proposed Framework for Derelict and Abandoned Properties, now available on the Government’s consultation platform at forum.gov.bm. The proposed framework seeks to address the growing number of vacant and derelict residential properties in Bermuda and explore ways to return them to productive use, helping to increase housing opportunities for Bermudian families.
Minister Zane DeSilva said: “We recognise that derelict properties present challenges for both property owners and the wider community. We aim to explore practical solutions that can help resolve long-standing ownership and estate issues, encourage property rehabilitation and create additional housing opportunities. We welcome the public’s views as we consider the best way forward.”
A Government spokesperson added, “The consultation explores a range of potential measures, including assistance for property owners, support in resolving inheritance and title issues, incentives for voluntary rehabilitation and possible amendments to existing legislation. It also seeks feedback on potential governance arrangements and safeguards to ensure that property rights are respected, with enforcement or acquisition considered only as a last resort in exceptional circumstances.
“Members of the public are encouraged to read the consultation document and share their views through forum.gov.bm. Feedback will help inform the Government’s consideration of a future framework that supports property owners, strengthens neighbourhoods and makes better use of Bermuda’s existing housing stock.”
The document – which you can read in full via the link below — states, “While increasing the supply of new housing remains a priority, the crisis is exacerbated by the growing number of vacant, derelict, and abandoned residential properties that could contribute to Bermuda’s housing stock if restored and brought back into productive use.
“Currently, there are at least 290 uninhabitable units across 218 addresses formally identified as uninhabitable, though the true number may be higher. These vacant properties do more than just reduce our available housing supply; they drive up housing costs, create public health and safety hazards, and undermine the quality of our neighborhoods.”
The full Derelict Buildings Public Consultation Document is here [PDF].
“While current laws already give government the underlying power to acquire and rehabilitate derelict properties, the process is often hindered by administrative delays and rigid procedural requirements. … Government is considering whether legislative amendments could simplify procedures, reduce delays and improve the effectiveness of interventions involving long-term derelict properties”
There it is.
How come PLP can consult on this yet not on other projects…bridge and other. 3billion in debt and we wonder why!!!