Two New Avenues for Access to Crown Land announces Minister Robinson

Garfield Ekon

Staff Writer

Turks and Caicos, October 7, 2024 – The Government has moved to expand the mechanisms for allocating Crown Lands, by including two new avenues, such as to businesses that announce projects, describe it, and solicit bids from qualified developers to compete.

It will also facilitate entities that solicit bids or proposals from potential suppliers for goods or services. The aim is to obtain the best value for an organisation’s needs, in the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI).

According to Minister of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development Hon. Jamell Robinson, who spoke recently in the House of Assembly, on the Proposed Amendments to Crown Land Ordinance for Housing Initiatives, the move will address one of the most “pressing challenges” facing the Turks and Caicos Islands, affordable and accessible housing.

“This proposed bill seeks to expand the mechanisms for allocating Crown Land by including two new avenues. These changes are critical to facilitating the creation of affordable, social, and emergency housing across our islands. They will streamline the land allocation process and ensure that land is utilized in a manner that benefits our communities,” the Minister said.

He added that under these new provisions, Crown Land suitable for commercial development can now be made available specifically for affordable housing, social housing, and emergency housing, and it is a “monumental step forward” for the people, as securing adequate and affordable housing is a concern for many families in the TCI, he said, noting that the amendments will create more opportunities for housing development that meets the needs of the growing population.

This legislation, the Minister said, is not just about creating more housing, because it is about building accessible and equitable housing, by focusing on affordable and social housing, ensuring that that all Islanders, regardless of their income or background, have the opportunity to live in decent, safe, and stable homes. “Emergency housing will also be crucial for providing shelter in times of crisis, ensuring that those who are vulnerable have a safety net,” he said.

The new rules will ultimately reduce the pressure on the Government to identify public shelters during the hurricane season, and ensure that ensure that the process is fair, efficient, and in line with the best interests of the public, as the bill introduces several key restrictions and conditions.

“A Transparent and Competitive Process: Crown Land will be allocated for these housing initiatives through a public and competitive process. This ensures that the selection of developers and housing projects is based on merit and transparency, fostering accountability and trust among all stakeholders.

Restrictive Development Agreements: Successful bidders must enter into restrictive agreements, which will limit the use of the land strictly to affordable housing, social housing, and emergency housing.

“This provision ensures that the land allocated under these amendments serves its intended purpose—housing our people and cannot be repurposed for other developments that do not benefit the community,” the Minister pointed out.