As Barbados approaches its 60th year of independence, the government has announced the revival of long-stalled plans to convert abandoned public and private buildings into homes, offices, and rental units. New Housing Minister Chris Gibbs unveiled this vision during the Technical and Vocational Education Training Council’s fourth Barbados Annual Construction and Design Conference at Sandals Royal, Maxwell, Christ Church. Gibbs emphasized the urgency of addressing derelict structures, which he described as both unsightly and potential hubs for illegal activities. The initiative aims to provide shelter for those displaced by disasters, create office space for expanding government departments, and offer rental units, while tackling the broader issue of neglected properties. Gibbs highlighted the advantage of government-owned buildings, which can be repurposed without extensive legal hurdles. This project builds on previous efforts by former Housing Minister Dwight Sutherland, who had announced plans to transform over 25,000 derelict buildings and vacant lots island-wide. A $700,000 grant from the Inter-American Development Bank will help launch the program, with work expected to begin in 2025, starting in urban areas like Mason Hall Street and Green Fields. Gibbs has already discussed the initiative with senior officials, underscoring its priority on the government’s agenda.